Russ is right. This IS a fascinating topic...and although MAC, Bill, and Diki are all right, it doesn't mean that Donny's post is entirely wrong or doesn't have value (gasp). The guys in the band CHICAGO will get MAC and Bill's points, the Sex Pistols or even the Rolling Stones, will not. All the study in the world MAY make you a competent player but without 'ears' (read 'talent'), you'll never be a GREAT player. Nor will it guarantee you commercial success. Knowing how music 'works' will always augment talent but is no substitute for it.

A lot of it has to do with your musical goals. Although there are some great musicians in Country music (especially in the Nashville studios), the genre' itself is not as demanding as say, playing avant garde' jazz. There is never a legitimate excuse for not learning music theory and we shouldn't excuse the kids that don't want to 'pay their dues', but we probably do need to de-complicate the learning process because you really can scare them off. JMO.

chas