But seriously…
If you really don’t like the term “chops” for a good player, there’s not much I can say but you’ll just have to get used to it. Every, and I mean every serious player I’ve ever known, be s/he jazz, funk, metal or what have you, uses it. You’d have only a slightly more difficult time getting them to rename the blues.
Oh, but advertising, looks, and chops are a must! No big hair!!
“And no more facial hair on the bandstand. You assholes played like children up there. I’ll get an all-L.A. band tomorrow. Watch me!!”
It seems that I have been out-obscure-referenced.
Every serious player? Hell, I’ve used it. And I never got past playing in bands that played Carpenters covers and did power ballads!
On the other hand…Geddy Lee uses the term in the ‘Exit…Stage Left’ video. Therefore it in cool, desiderata.
Get me?
Beeblebrox: Yeah, I know where it came from, I just can’t hear it without thinking of some overweight obnoxious expat ordering around the locals on menial tasks. In other words, I’m the one who should be saying it, not her. 
How does everyone feel about the term “clam”, i.e. a missed note?
Kyomara,
Follow the link to see of what blowero speaks. Be warned, Buddy has a temper…
I never really thought about it before reading this thread. Now I can’t stand the term ‘chops’.
Gah!