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Hey @dfmarcus63 ;
Let me start with a very definite answer: NO. Under no circumstances should you “memorize” the notes. Here’s why: that’s not music, that’s academics. The 2 are diametrically opposed.
Yes, you need to start somewhere. Learn the natural notes on the low E string from the nut to the 12 the fret. That’s it. 13 notes.
Now, you learn positions, patterns, shapes, chord and scale intervals. That way, you start on a few notes, and learn the fretboard as a music map. Over time, you will know the specific notes if your mind works that way. It won’t happen by accident and it is completely unnecessary.
If you simply follow Tony’s instruction and have faith in the process, you will advance faster. The more you involve your mind, the more it will slow you down.
I speak from experience. The slow you down experience. There are plenty of people here who can’t touch me for understanding that can play circles around me.
Just sayin’. Your choice.
Of course, if you have a mind like mine, you don’t have a choice. The best you can do is keep it still for a little while. That’s when you play. What do you do with the over active mind the rest of the time? Become the music theory expert. Simple.
MG 😀