I like the analogy - it works to a degree. I'd say more like it covers the whole spectrum from solo musicians to garage bands that suck, to good garage bands,

I like the analogy - it works to a degree. I'd say more like it covers the whole spectrum from solo musicians to garage bands that suck, to good garage bands, to "rockstars". Sure, those working on super high profile projects can be like rock starts to the software community, not becuase they get lots of chicks, but they attain a following, but because their work is out there for everyone to see and use, learn from, and appreciate. Other aspiring programmers can say "Wow! I want to do that someday." Those with real talent (including the ability to execute!) can rise to the top, even if just for a while. Solo people can create game-changing technology (eg: Bram Cohen / BitTorrent protocol) But just like rock bands - you can also sit in your garage making decent music forever, having fun, but never becoming famous. That doesn't make you a rock star, but it still gives you practice, experience, and confidence.