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Sorry can't help you on Bob Seger, but I've got a question and request.  Been looking for Joni Mitchell's Raised on Robbery -- chord progression.  Can't find it on internet though you'd think it would be easy to find.  But my question is this: how do you post a new request or topic without replying to someone else.  When I hit New Topic and fill in all the information, I can preview message, upload files and do all sorts of things: except send it.  Where is the send button???

How often to replace strings?  Do the good ones (expenseive) last longer than cheaper ones?  I've had mine on for a year now.  I guess I like to wait til the winter; sit in front of a fire and change strings.

Thanks each of you for the advice and encouragement.  Its good to know even the pros whine a little.  As for the capo -- yes I do have one and I think I understand its use; correct me if I'm wrong -- each higher fret you put it one raises the pitch one step (or half note).  So if you play say a C chord with its typical fingering, you are now playing a C# chord?  If you have the capo on fret two, this chord becomes D.  Is that how it works?  But what do you do if you need to move down a bit.  Seems the capo can only raise the pitch.

Songwriting seems to be the general answer to getting bored....I read all the replies to your original message and that's what I got out of them.  So the topic really now turns to songwriting: is it really that simple that those of us with little formal music education and knowledge can do it?  I guess I've always been more a poet than a songwriter, and never thought of it as being a lyricist versus being a chord/melody guy.  Now (after several years of teaching myself some guitar and a little theory -- circle of fifths, making a 7th and a minor chord, learning some basic blues and rock progressions -- do you folks think its time to marry the two and write a song???  Is there some trick to knowing where in a melody a certain chord would go well?  Obviously stick to the key (at first), then there's the tried and true (but often boring) classic structures (Duke of Earl for example).  Are there any further tricks other than "what sounds good?"

Even though I wouldn't consider myself very good, I can vouch for the fact that practice over time will make those short stubs perform.  On the other hand (not to be comical) after four years of playing (I started as well at 57) there are chords that I know I never will make (I don't even try for anything beyond a three fret spread).  But there is often a chord variation that can be substituted and what's the difference anyway?  I just play for enjoyment.  Regarding lessons etc.... I read a great review here on Chordie about the package of CDs, DVDs and book called "Learn and Master Guitar" so after four years of doing it all on my own, I forked out the $200 (on special btw) and am going to give it a try.  I'm just now waiting for delivery.  I will report back re. my thoughts on this -- the review called it the cream of the crop or something like that of all on-line, or CD/DVD tutorials (for $200 bills, it better be).  Enjoy your playing folks.

Muchas gracias.  This is a very cool site.