In the 1980s, Jason Becker was on the fast track to become speed metal’s reigning guitar god. His acrobatic fingers once tapped out swirling licks that sounded like Paganini playing double-time in a Tilt-a-Whirl. Becker toured internationally before he graduated from high school. At twenty, the young virtuoso was David Lee Roth’s lead guitarist and destined for stardom. But just before embarking on his first stadium tour, Becker was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease. Today, more than twenty years after doctors predicted he would have two to three years to live, Becker’s life is still unfolding in a glorious, extended coda. While his digits can no longer perform fiery gymnastic leaps up and down the fretboard, his mind continues to dance to the music, and—thanks to the ingenuity and support of a coterie of family members, friends, and lovers—he continues to compose the fanciful flights of arpeggiated fury he hears in his head.  TW