Like Arc-n-spark, I started playing guitar very late in life and, yes, there are many styles and players I enjoy and were influenced by. But if I had to choose one it would be Neil Young. Cinnamon Girl and Rockin' in the Free World are particular favourites.

My Father he literally forced me when I was younger
but as many others have stated, I didn't really start playing on my own until later 17 or so. and it wasn't a guitarist that made me want to, I think it had more to do with "females" and the strong need I had to acquire one

its actually Kinda funny, I started playing guitar to help me get a girl and now that I have one I try to get away from her to play guitar interesting twist on things

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The Beatles so I would say John and George!!

Would have to pin it down to 4 people. First of all had to be my dad, i wouldn't have known what a guitar was back at the tender age of 6 without him! Then without a doubt SRV, he definitely flicked a switch in my head on how to approach the guitar. And of course Hendrix and Clapton

I'd have to say Bo Didley whom I saw as an 11 year old a year before the Beatles and Stones hit Canada, I was fortunate enough t have an uncle who was a drummer and into Blues, R+B and Rock and Roll, he took me to see a show with Bo and Chuck Berry and I was Hooked

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Common sense and a sense of humor are the same thing, moving at different speeds. A sense of humor is just common sense, dancin'