A guitar freak since the age of 9, Craig Schexnaydre had hidden talent for many years. Craig took lessons his first year learning how to read chords and notes. During this time, he would escape to neighborhood musicians learning the ropes on guitar. During his second year he switched to another teacher learning classical music. His love was more into rock of the 70s (since the 80s never developed yet - he started in 1980). His earliest influences included - among others - Jeff Beck, Frank Zappa, Allan Holdsworth, Van Halen, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and Uli Roth.
Craig took lessons for a couple of years and had to explore his ideas on his own. During this time, guitar was essential in his life and everything evolved around music. Spending 4-10 hours a day for several years after. Playing with local musicians at a young age, he got tired of covers and started creating songs on a 4 track recorder. During the mid-80s of the Guitar Hero Age, he won several local Guitar Contests which included three Louisiana State Guitar Contests. He also was a finalist for a National Guitar Contest hosted by Tonos that was judged by Steve Vai.
During the mid-80s, he was on track for music. He was awarded a Tuition Scholarship to Berklee and regretfully turned it down. He also had a hidden agenda - he was also awarded Full Athletic Scholarships to several major colleges. He played Football at University of Louisiana La. and decided to get married shortly after. Responsibilities kicked into high gear and he started to provide for his family. Throughout the years, he has taught several local musicians at various locations. Despite his attempts to get into bands, both family and work life had reminded him of his ultimate responsibility. So, music was sidelined to provide for a family for years to come.
During the decade of married life, guitar was a hobby and he knew something was missing. After getting divorced, he decided to play music again. But, his job kept interfering with his true love of music. Finally, at the age of 36, and the Musician’s new platform (the internet), he has decided to come out of deprivation and explore his options in music.