RideTheCrash said:
He can't play any other type of chord and he refuses to learn.
I think it's time to find a new jamming buddy, if possible.
I know this one 14 yr old guitar player who can rip many guitarists I've played with professionally (I'm in my early 30s). He can play the blues, knows about chord changes (and not just the easy 7th chords) and he's only been playing for 3 years.
What does he have that your friend does not?
1. A family member who's a killer guitarist mentoring him (this said person actually had a hit record on Warner Bros. many moons ago and has also played with some jazz greats -- this guy is a friend of mine and that's how I heard the 14 yr old)
2. An open mind and passionate heart to progress on the instrument.
We aren't all so lucky to have #1 at our disposal, but you can seek out ppl to play with who are BETTER than you are. It's uncomfortable sometimes, but if they are not belittling egotistical maniacs but rather nurturing and supportive, there's nothing better.
And #2, well, THAT is a state of mind ... one your 3-chord friend does not have but it seems you have at least to a degree ... or you would not feel the need to rant.
So, I hope you can find some musicians to jam with that allow you to stretch out.
Peace.
gg