My dad, my mom and me as an infant.
My first musical influences were my family. My father was a preacher (pastor and evangelist) who played guitar and a vocalist. My mother was a vocalist and played keyboard and at one point considered being a professional singer.
My dad, my mom and me as an infant.
My half brother, Tom was also an evangelist, played the guitar and sang.
My oldest half sister, Joanne, had a full career as a professional vocalist, the lead soprano for the Tampa, Florida metropolitan opera and also toured for many years as a lounge singer. Unfortunately I have photos of her.
Professional influences start with Chet Atkins, then James Taylor, then what got me interested in jazz, Joe Pass
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Later professional influences include Earl Klugh (specifically on classical guitar), Martin Taylor and Lennie Breau.
Lastly, I must acknowledge my long time teacher, Mark Stefani, guitarist and teacher extraordinaire. He has transcribed countless solos by George Benson, Oscar Peterson and many others. When discussing Mark's teaching materials with another student one time we agreed, that unlike all our other teachers, Mark's material seemed to have no end. I will be forever grateful to him for not only improving my technique, expanding my repertoire, but also his invaluable instruction in teaching me to make my own arrangements. Thanks, Mark!
Here's a link to Mark's website, of which, if you are a guitarist or bassist, I would urge you to avail yourself: