PS< don’t waste a lot of money on gear, one good guitar and one mid sized amp and a few classic effects are all he needs, people (wannabes) always talk about the gear and waste money, NO ONE CARES! No need to spend more than 700 bucks on a guitar, just find a classic one that plays well and keeps tune well.
ps again, I agree with someone here who said get a musical education, I didn’t get one but I should have, it on;y helps and he will meet lots of musicians. The only problem I have with education is the price is so ridiculous. If the money is an issue in that sense better spent on the software and home recording. If he masters home recording (which entails all the elements of production) he will be far ahead of peers his age. Can’t stress that part enough.