I was fortunate to learn music at an early age, not from "teachers", but from family. My Dad and all my siblings played musical instruments, as did numerous aunts and uncles. I got a ukulele and a chord book at age 8 and once I'd learned a few chords, I was welcomed to "sit in" on the "jam sessions".

At first there was always someone there shouting out the chords (this was ALL country music). I never knew there was such a thing as I, IV, V. I memorized the 3 chords in each key. I knew that before the band started, they would certainly let everyone know what key they were playing in.

It didn't take long before I "graduated" to a guitar, and only needed someone to yell out the chord if was something other than the 3 in that key.

I never did take any "theory", and there are actually very few times that I wish I had. I've learned to "hear" what chord is coming, similar to what your friend does.

Never had a capo when I was growing up, but I have one handy now, and use it whenever the situation calls for it.

I wish you good luck on your search for "chording nirvana". I suppose we all hope for that.

Good luck!
LLOYD S