When did you originally begin playing the guitar and what motivated you to do so?

I was 14 when I began playing the guitar, I started out at an early age on piano, switched to drums, sucked on drums, and then saw a video performance of Jimi Hendrix at Woodstock and knew I wanted to be like him.

As a kid, what were your first musical opportunites (Bands...etc..)?

I performed at a lot of school talent contests when I was real young, I was a bit of a ham on stage. My first bands were generally progressive rock like the band Rush, I was amazed by how they could be so musical and rock soo hard. 

Whether it be a musician or a friend, who motivated you musically as a child?

My father motivated me the most, cuz to this day he is the greatest musician I know. He plays many different instruments well. Also a childhood friend of mine Dave Stjonh. 

Favorites bands as a child and why? And how did their music effect you and your playing?

The Beatles have always been my favorite band and in different ways have affected my style as a singer, as a songwriter and as a musician.

Where their any guitarist as a child that you yourself tried to emulate?

Jimi Hendrix, Alex Lifeson of Rush. Yngwie Malmsteen, for sheer speed and techniquality, and Allan Holdsworth, for chordal insanity.

Did you attend college? If so where?

I Spent two years studying Psychology at various Jr. Colleges in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

What were your other interests/hobbies as a child?

I liked to catch lizards, which are abundant in the desert, I would always set them free though. I liked to play Basketball and tennis.