Meaning: This quote by Ronnie Montrose, a renowned musician and guitarist, reflects his early experiences with music and the guitar. It captures the essence of his journey towards becoming a musician and the significance of sharing and experimenting with different guitars before finally starting to play at the age of 17. Let's delve deeper into the context behind this quote and explore Ronnie Montrose's musical journey.

Ronnie Montrose was an influential American rock guitarist, known for his work with bands such as Montrose and Gamma, as well as his collaborations with artists like Van Morrison and Herbie Hancock. Born in 1947, Montrose grew up in a musically inclined environment, with his mother being a professional pianist. His early exposure to music laid the foundation for his future career as a musician.

The quote highlights the fact that Montrose didn't immediately have his own guitar to play when he first started showing an interest in music. Instead, he relied on the generosity of others who allowed him to share and play their guitars. This experience of borrowing and playing different guitars, such as the Silver tone and Danelectro 12 string mentioned in the quote, was crucial in shaping his musical development.

At the age of 17, Montrose finally acquired his own guitar, marking the beginning of his dedicated journey as a guitarist. This pivotal moment signifies the start of his musical exploration and the development of his own unique style. It also reflects the passion and determination that drove him to pursue a career in music despite not having immediate access to his own instrument.

Montrose's quote serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and resourcefulness in pursuing one's passion. It speaks to the idea that creative expression and musical talent can flourish even in the absence of personal resources, as long as there is a deep-seated desire to create and share music with the world.

Furthermore, the mention of specific guitar models like the Silver tone and Danelectro 12 string offers insight into the equipment that influenced Montrose's early sound and playing style. These guitars likely played a significant role in shaping his musical preferences and the tonal qualities that would later define his distinctive sound as a guitarist.

In conclusion, Ronnie Montrose's quote encapsulates the formative experiences that led to his musical journey and the pivotal moment when he first started playing the guitar. It serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians, emphasizing the value of perseverance, experimentation, and the transformative power of music. Montrose's legacy as a pioneering guitarist and his enduring impact on the rock music scene further solidify the significance of his early experiences with the guitar.