Counter example: I knew a guitarist who was just amazing. This guy could play any solo, any chord, and improvize. He was quick, and had crazy exercises (besides

Counter example: I knew a guitarist who was just amazing. This guy could play any solo, any chord, and improvize. He was quick, and had crazy exercises (besides his normal one). One exercise he had: 30 minutes per day, just strum to build up strength. Unfortunately, playing music was his only gift. He lived alone on welfare. At least he lived in a country that gave him welfare. But I can easily imagine many musicians who focus on their craft and need to scour for food. Heck, that's to some extent even in my country the case, because if you're only good at music and horrible with money, you won't survive on welfare (I've seen that too, just not with this talented musician). So IMO it's more complicated than that.