[…how To Build A Music Career As A Songwriter?]

That’s a coincidence, I’m actually in Tom Hess’s mentoring program right now. you a member too?

Very cool! I’m not in yet, but I plan to join next year. It feels good to know someone else in the program.

[…how To Build A Music Career As A Songwriter?]

Hmmm what do you mean exactly? As in what factors should I consider?

What I mean for example would be like this: Most musicians think about the same stuff….how to get signed, how to tour with a band and all that, but it is more important to understand what makes you more valuable to others in music (like record label owners, bands looking for pro musicians, and so on). It's just like looking to get hired by a company and you need to amke yourself stand out from all the other candidates for the same job. They all have the same skills pretty much, but you need to stand out in some way beyond that.…. I found a music career article that I bookmarked some weeks ago which I think you will probably get a lot out of. Check it out: http://tomhess.net/Articles/WantToBecomeAProfessionalMusician.aspx

John's reply is real good too..

[…how To Build A Music Career As A Songwriter?]

You need to expand your thinking a bit more…although the music business is about music (of course), it is a business after all and there are many more factors to consider other than just how good your musical skills are. Think of yourself like a businessman in addition to a musician.

[Pick Vs Fingers]

on a steel string acoustic I either use a soft pick or fingers. On nylon string acoustic I use ONLY fingers. On electric I always play with a pick.

[Is Rock Music Gone?]

In Europe it's very much alive and well.

[What Keeps You Motivated?]

for me, youtube is a great source of motivation. Whenever I want to feel inspired I watch my favorite players play and it helps to get my ass in gear to keep practicing.

Also, keeping recordings of my own playing and then listening back to them 1 or 2 years later gives a great inspiring feeling to know how much you progressed.

[Acoustic Or Electric]

Think abotu the style you want to ultimately play and make the respective instrument for that style your instrument of choice. Then if you want to learn the other on the side, do that. My 2 cents anyway

[The Line You Wish You'd Written]

"You're a runner, but you're chasing yourself - feel the hot breath on your shoulder" (DIO)