Question: What do you think are the most important steps towards becoming a good lead-guitarist in a great rock band?

Tom Hess's Answer: Assuming that you are thinking in terms of ‘musical’ things, you need to learn to play extremely TIGHT with a band! A band that plays tight will be perceived as a good band even by people who do not particularly like its music. So from a musical perspective YOU need the ability to play very tight and your band needs to rehearse with this goal in mind.

Next you need to be able to play dynamically as a band (when the song needs to played softer in some parts the band needs to do that as a unit, not as 5 people doing their own thing at slightly different times).

The next step is to actually practice your stage presence both individually AND as an entire band. Some band rehearsal time should be scheduled each week to constantly improve this area of your live show.

You want to be “unforgettable” and you want your entire band to become “unforgettable” right? (Of course you do).

In terms of developing a music career with your band, you need to first prepare your mind for entering the music business. In order to be successful in this industry, you must acquire certain beliefs about yourself and your own potential, as well as let go of many myths about how this industry works. A good place to start will be by studying my music career articles.

You may apply for my Music Career Mentoring Program when you’re ready to get serious about a career in music.

Discover the best way to become a highly successful professional musician.