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Top 10 All Time Guitar Players

by solardave
118 replies
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Just wondering who you guys think are the best. Here goes mine.These may not be the best but they are my favorites.
1) Stevie Ray Vaughan
2) Carlos Santana
3) Jimi Hendrix
4) Eric Clapton
5) Duane Allman (best slide ever)
6) George Harrison
7) Dickie Betts
8) Roy Buchanon
9) Stevie Vai
10) Joe Satriani
  • Profile picture of the author Doctor D
    Carlos Santana is a badass.
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    • Profile picture of the author ThomM
      Good list Dave.
      I can think of a few I'd add, but none I'd take off.
      Zappa
      Lowell George
      Jennifer Batten
      Link Wray
      Jeff Beck
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      • Profile picture of the author Liquification
        No Jimmy Page?
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        • Profile picture of the author ThomM
          Originally Posted by Liquification View Post

          No Jimmy Page?
          He was on my mind, but then I thought of Beck and forgot:rolleyes:
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          • Profile picture of the author Liquification
            how about
            Eddie Van Halen
            Slash
            Joe Perry
            Zakk Wylde
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          • Profile picture of the author mwoeppel1
            Lots of Rock and Blues guys there! :p Man, the "greatest" is so subjective, it comes down to who you like.

            You said of all time....

            Not to take away from any of those guys, except I'd probably take Clapton off the list, even though I'm a huge fan. Put some jazz guys on the list, too.

            Ted Greene
            Django Reinhart
            Wes Montgomery
            Freddie King
            Zappa's on my list, too.
            Roy Buchanon
            Robert Johnson
            Chet Akins - finger numbingly good!
            Jimi - for sure
            can't think of a number 10...
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            • Profile picture of the author ThomM
              Forgot about this, was listening to Billy Gibbons and ZZ Top
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              • Profile picture of the author Steven Wagenheim
                Well, I'm trying not to be influenced by anybody else's list but it's hard to do.

                Lots of great names above.

                In my 45 years of listening to music (since age 6) I've heard a lot of great
                musicians. Some, never got the credit they deserved. On my list, you'll
                see a few of them who you probably never even heard of.

                This is in no special order because that would be impossible.

                Eric Clapton
                Roy Clark
                Mason Williams
                Tony Peluso
                George Harrison
                Brian May
                Martin Barre
                Elliot Randall
                Robby Krieger
                Mick Ronson
                Larry Carlton
                Alex Lifeson
                John Petrucci

                There's so many more but I'll stop there.

                FYI - Tony Peluso started the power ballad craze long before that term
                was even a household name. The year was 1972.

                Can you guess the song?
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                • Profile picture of the author Kurt
                  Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim View Post

                  Well, I'm trying not to be influenced by anybody else's list but it's hard to do.

                  Lots of great names above.

                  In my 45 years of listening to music (since age 6) I've heard a lot of great
                  musicians. Some, never got the credit they deserved. On my list, you'll
                  see a few of them who you probably never even heard of.

                  This is in no special order because that would be impossible.

                  Eric Clapton
                  Roy Clark
                  Mason Williams
                  Tony Peluso
                  George Harrison
                  Brian May
                  Martin Barre
                  Elliot Randall
                  Robby Krieger
                  Mick Ronson
                  Larry Carlton
                  Alex Lifeson
                  John Petrucci

                  There's so many more but I'll stop there.

                  FYI - Tony Peluso started the power ballad craze long before that term
                  was even a household name. The year was 1972.

                  Can you guess the song?
                  Hey Steven,

                  Best is a matter of taste, but I want you to listen to this song, with both Jeff Beck and Clapton playing, and tell me which you like better. This isn't the greatest "guitar song" in the world and neither does anything special.

                  Even so, IMO JB's sound and playing is far and above what EC is doing...Clapton even breaks a smile at one point over JB's choices.

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                  • Profile picture of the author Frank Donovan
                    Ooh, I'm loving this thread...

                    Kurt, I have to agree with you about Jeff Beck - an absolute legend - and your whole list is pretty awesome.

                    Steve W, I thought Mick Ronson and Martin Barre were only my guilty pleasures

                    And because I doubt that anyone else will mention him, I ought to throw Jan Akkerman's name into the ring. He was the guitarist with the Dutch band, Focus and I remember going to several of their gigs in the 70s and enduring lengthy and tedious bass and drum solos just to stand and wonder at the guy with the lead guitar. His technique ranks with the very best, IMO.

                    I'd also like to tone down the macho-meter a touch and sing the praises of the great Joni Mitchell - a true original.



                    Frank
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                    • Profile picture of the author Killer Joe
                      I'm surprised nobody mentioned Tommy Tedesco.

                      There isn't a single person here who hasn't heard his playing. If you don't recognize the name, he was THE #1 sessions player for many years.

                      And Steve Cropper? C'mon, he's not on anybody's list :confused:

                      Btw, I met Esteban a few years ago at a DRTV convention. That guy is the size of a linebacker.

                      I guess Neil Schon and Alex Lifeson don't rate, either

                      KJ
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                      • Profile picture of the author Kurt
                        Originally Posted by Killer Joe View Post

                        I'm surprised nobody mentioned Tommy Tedesco.

                        There isn't a single person here who hasn't heard his playing. If you don't recognize the name, he was THE #1 sessions player for many years.

                        And Steve Cropper? C'mon, he's not on anybody's list :confused:

                        Btw, I met Esteban a few years ago at a DRTV convention. That guy is the size of a linebacker.

                        I guess Neil Schon and Alex Lifeson don't rate, either

                        KJ
                        IMO, Steve Cropper wasn't even the best guitar player in the Blues Brothers...That would go to Matt Guitar Murphy, but love them both. Hard to beat the original Green Onions.

                        Another pretty good player left off the list would be Rye Cooder.

                        I also love Albert Collins, who created a very distictive sound.
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                        • Profile picture of the author Killer Joe
                          Originally Posted by Kurt View Post

                          IMO, Steve Cropper wasn't even the best guitar player in the Blues Brothers...
                          Yea, but Steve Cropper (Booker T and the MGs) and Duck Dunn (bass) were the backbone behind the Stax sound (Otis Redding, Johnnie Taylor, Wilson Pickett, et al) and where I grew up, Wash D.C., that was a major musical movement. He had a lot of influence.

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                          • Profile picture of the author TimPhelan
                            Lot of great players listed. I don't think I have seen:

                            * Hubert Sumlin. Played with Howlin Wolf for years and a huge influence on Jimi H
                            * Elmore James. I mean, where would SRV have been without Elmore?
                            * Charlie Christian. Only 26 when he died and considered a genius still.
                            * Ravi Shankar. Terrific classical sitar player.
                            * Bo Diddley. Another very influencial guitarist.

                            Plus, Robert Johnson is widely considered the grandfather of what was later called rock. He's in the rock and roll hall of fame and he died in 1938! That should tell you something. I'm surprised Kurt has him only at #10. Heck, 60 years later Clapton was still trying to do his best to play like RJ did.

                            I would have John Mcglaughlin in my top ten because he is very versatile and Jeff Beck realized he was better than himself.
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                            • Profile picture of the author Kurt
                              Originally Posted by TimPhelan View Post

                              Lot of great players listed. I don't think I have seen:

                              * Hubert Sumlin. Played with Howlin Wolf for years and a huge influence on Jimi H
                              * Elmore James. I mean, where would SRV have been without Elmore?
                              * Charlie Christian. Only 26 when he died and considered a genius still.
                              * Ravi Shankar. Terrific classical sitar player.


                              Plus, Robert Johnson is widely considered the grandfather of what was later called rock. He's in the rock and roll hall of fame and he died in 1938!. That should tell you something. I'm surprised Kurt has him only at #10. Heck, 60 years later Clapton was still trying to do his best to play like RJ did.

                              I would have John Mcglaughlin in my top ten because he is very versatile and Jeff Beck realized he was better than himself.
                              Summerlin is one of my favorites and his work on Killing Floor was great.

                              I consider the Elmore James lineage to be more James => Houd Dog Taylor => George Thoroughgood than SRV.

                              Hey Tim,

                              I have Robert Johnson below Son House, who was Johnson's mentor. In a few months, if I posted the same list, I may have Johnson higher. It's hard to make a concrete list.

                              Jeff Beck has said the McLaughlin is probably the best player alive. And from a technical point of view, may be right. But here's why I have Beck ahead of McLaughlin:

                              I don't watch fingers, I listen to the sounds. Jeff Beck can create more sounds and tones without cheating than every other player ever. McLaughlin can move his fingers in amazing ways, but it's all about the sound.

                              Also, Beck has been a progressive player for a long time. He was a pioneer in the 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's and 2000's. For each of five decades he's been a cutting edge player. Listen to the stuff he's put out the last decade. He is the most MODERN guitar player on the planet, and he's in his 60s.

                              To be "progressive" for that long of time is simply amazing. To keep creating something new... I still like the Stones, but they play the same music they always have, even if they have some new songs. Beck has evolved and grown over that time.

                              I don't think many that like Jeff Beck have heard his last 3-4 albums. He is so far out there, it's scary. There is no one doing what he's doing now, which is pretty much experimenting with sounds and working them into songs.
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                              • Profile picture of the author TimPhelan
                                Sumlin played on a lot of great songs, like on Spoonful. That's a great solo for the time.

                                I think Elmore was a direct influence on SRV. Had to be. Not just the guitar playing either, because Elmore was a GREAT singer. Seemed to me SRV was always going for that Elmore James sound.

                                Originally Posted by Kurt View Post

                                Summerlin is one of my favorites and his work on Killing Floor was great.

                                I consider the Elmore James lineage to be more James => Houd Dog Taylor => George Thoroughgood than SRV.
                                Well, I just can't see him being below the others. I guess that's what I am surprised about. lol.
                                Hey Tim,

                                I have Robert Johnson below Son House, who was Johnson's mentor. In a few months, if I posted the same list, I may have Johnson higher. It's hard to make a concrete list.
                                With Mclaughlin it isn't just technical. If it was, he wouldn't have played with Miles Davis. Miles wanted and demanded people who could play their ass off. Listen to Bitches Brew released in 1970. That music is still ahead of it's time. He then lead one of the most successful fusion bands ever. Then he played in an Indian acoustic band Shakti. He also has done classical recordings. Just extremely versatile and with a lot of feeling.

                                Jeff Beck has said the McLaughlin is probably the best player alive. And from a technical point of view, may be right. But here's why I have Beck ahead of McLaughlin:

                                I don't watch fingers, I listen to the sounds. Jeff Beck can create more sounds and tones without cheating than every other player ever. McLaughlin can move his fingers in amazing ways, but it's all about the sound.

                                Also, Beck has been a progressive player for a long time. He was a pioneer in the 60's, 70's, 80's, 90's and 2000's. For each of five decades he's been a cutting edge player. Listen to the stuff he's put out the last decade. He is the most MODERN guitar player on the planet, and he's in his 60s.

                                To be "progressive" for that long of time is simply amazing. To keep creating something new... I still like the Stones, but they play the same music they always have, even if they have some new songs. Beck has evolved and grown over that time.

                                I don't think many that like Jeff Beck have heard his last 3-4 albums. He is so far out there, it's scary. There is no one doing what he's doing now, which is pretty much experimenting with sounds and working them into songs.
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                                • Profile picture of the author Kurt
                                  Originally Posted by rypher21 View Post

                                  ...where's Jennifer Batten and Slash???
                                  this 2 are awesome guitar players...
                                  Originally Posted by TimPhelan View Post

                                  Sumlin played on a lot of great songs, like on Spoonful. That's a great solo for the time.

                                  I think Elmore was a direct influence on SRV. Had to be. Not just the guitar playing either, because Elmore was a GREAT singer. Seemed to me SRV was always going for that Elmore James sound.



                                  Well, I just can't see him being below the others. I guess that's what I am surprised about. lol.


                                  With Mclaughlin it isn't just technical. If it was, he wouldn't have played with Miles Davis. Miles wanted and demanded people who could play their ass off. Listen to Bitches Brew released in 1970. That music is still ahead of it's time. He then lead one of the most successful fusion bands ever. Then he played in an Indian acoustic band Shakti. He also has done classical recordings. Just extremely versatile and with a lot of feeling.
                                  Hey Tim,

                                  I consider SRV to be more in the Buddy Guy => Hendrix => SRV lineage than James.

                                  And, JB also plays a wide variety of music...He laid down the groove line on Stevie Wonder's Superstition...Yep, that's JB on guitar. He also played with Stanley Clark on School Daze, a fusion song still ahead of its time. Both songs are from the early 70's.

                                  And Beck had two fusion albums of his own in the mid 70's, playing with Jan Hammer, both popular and critically acclaimed, Blow By Blow and Wired.

                                  He played as the country band in the movie Twins. He played Sleepwalk in the movie Porky's (LOL). Beck even plays a romainian folk song on a fairly recent album, as well as Blast from the East, with a middle eastern sound.

                                  He plays reggae with Toots Mayall. He recorded a rockabilly album of Gene Vincent songs as a tribute to his favorite player growing up...Can't remember his name, (Cliff something) but he was the original player for Vincent.

                                  JB did a great job with Rod Stewart on Curtis Mayfield's "People Get Ready" and equally well doing Ray Charles' "Drown In My Own Tears". Has a hard core/cutting edge version of Muddy Water's blues classic "Rollin And Tumblin".

                                  But more impressive, I can't put a tag on most of his recent music, other than maybe "ultra modern electric guitar".

                                  I win. )))
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                                  • Profile picture of the author mwoeppel1
                                    I had not heard of the Elmore James influence on SRV - - what I did learn was that he was into Albert King and Hendrix. If you can play Hendrix, you can play SRV and vice versa.

                                    Lots of guys on this thread I forgot to put on my list;

                                    Charlie Christian - he was one of the first electric Jazz players
                                    McLaughlin - he's the only guy that can play his stuff LOL
                                    (surprised no one has mentioned Al Dimeola, since Paco Delucia was mentioned, too)

                                    Another modern player that a lot of guitarists follow is Phil Keaggy

                                    Oh yes one more - Tommy Emmanuel. Check him on out on youtube. an absolute virtuoso.
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                                    • Profile picture of the author TimPhelan
                                      Yeh, SRV had a lot of influences. Albert King was considered his godfather. I love Albert also. Stevie's brother Jimmie says Johnny Guitar Watson was the one they studied the most. Jimmie is a hell of a player also. I saw him several times with The Fabulous Thunderbirds in the early 80s.

                                      Originally Posted by mwoeppel1 View Post

                                      I had not heard of the Elmore James influence on SRV - - what I did learn was that he was into Albert King and Hendrix. If you can play Hendrix, you can play SRV and vice versa.

                                      Lots of guys on this thread I forgot to put on my list;

                                      Charlie Christian - he was one of the first electric Jazz players
                                      McLaughlin - he's the only guy that can play his stuff LOL
                                      (surprised no one has mentioned Al Dimeola, since Paco Delucia was mentioned, too)

                                      Another modern player that a lot of guitarists follow is Phil Keaggy

                                      Oh yes one more - Tommy Emmanuel. Check him on out on youtube. an absolute virtuoso.
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                                      • Profile picture of the author Steven Wagenheim
                                        Hey folks, when you get a chance, read back through this thread and make
                                        a note of all the great names mentioned.

                                        There has been a lot of amazing talent that has passed through these
                                        corridors of time.

                                        And we're the ones who get to enjoy it.

                                        It doesn't get any better than that.
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                                        • Profile picture of the author Kurt
                                          Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim View Post

                                          Hey folks, when you get a chance, read back through this thread and make
                                          a note of all the great names mentioned.

                                          There has been a lot of amazing talent that has passed through these
                                          corridors of time.

                                          And we're the ones who get to enjoy it.

                                          It doesn't get any better than that.
                                          Yep and the great thing about the electric age is we have recordings of great artists who lived before us.

                                          I think the sad part of this list is the fact there are no young names on it.

                                          Is it due to use leaving someone out or is it that the younger generation just isn't producing great musicans? Rap/hip hop just doesn't lend itself to great musicians.

                                          The best guitar player not on this list is probably Prince. He can really play when he wants to, but like a Zappa tunes says, "Shut up and play yer guitar".

                                          Another name, maybe not the greatest player of all time, but definetly one one of the most influential is Leadbelly...The original master of the 12 string.
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                                          • Profile picture of the author Steven Wagenheim
                                            Originally Posted by Kurt View Post

                                            Yep and the great thing about the electric age is we have recordings of great artists who lived before us.

                                            I think the sad part of this list is the fact there are no young names on it.

                                            Is it due to use leaving someone out or is it that the younger generation just isn't producing great musicans? Rap/hip hop just doesn't lend itself to great musicians.

                                            The best guitar player not on this list is probably Prince. He can really play when he wants to, but like a Zappa tunes says, "Shut up and play yer guitar".

                                            Another name, maybe not the greatest player of all time, but definetly one one of the most influential is Leadbelly...The original master of the 12 string.

                                            I think there is a lot of talent out there that just hasn't been discovered
                                            because today seems to be more about the all mighty dollar than making
                                            real music. Hate to say it, but the music business isn't what it was. I
                                            don't want to get into that aspect of it (beyond the scope of this thread)
                                            but I do know from insiders in the industry that because of the amounts
                                            of money involved today, labels are more reluctant to take chances on
                                            a new artist or type of music. So what you find is more of the "safe"
                                            rehashed crap that sells.

                                            I listen to a lot of alternative music today that doesn't even make the
                                            radio. These are people who play small venues in NY and around the area.

                                            The keyboard player from Jukebox The Ghost, as an example, is amazing.
                                            But few people are ever going to hear them.

                                            Yes, it is kind of sad.
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                                          • Profile picture of the author mwoeppel1
                                            Originally Posted by Kurt View Post

                                            Yep and the great thing about the electric age is we have recordings of great artists who lived before us.

                                            I think the sad part of this list is the fact there are no young names on it.

                                            Is it due to use leaving someone out or is it that the younger generation just isn't producing great musicans? Rap/hip hop just doesn't lend itself to great musicians.

                                            The best guitar player not on this list is probably Prince. He can really play when he wants to, but like a Zappa tunes says, "Shut up and play yer guitar".

                                            Another name, maybe not the greatest player of all time, but definetly one one of the most influential is Leadbelly...The original master of the 12 string.
                                            Yah... Leadbelly. He's freom Dallas!!

                                            Guitar-based rock just doesn't sell like it used to, so we get hip hop and Brittney Spears.

                                            My favorite young guitarist (under 35, I think) is Joe Bonamassa. I'm just stuck on the blues, I guess. i'd post a link, but my post count is too low.
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                                        • Profile picture of the author solardave
                                          Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim View Post

                                          Hey folks, when you get a chance, read back through this thread and make
                                          a note of all the great names mentioned.

                                          There has been a lot of amazing talent that has passed through these
                                          corridors of time.

                                          And we're the ones who get to enjoy it.

                                          It doesn't get any better than that.
                                          Steven,

                                          I absolutely agree. I started out with 10 and now the list is endless. I always liked Cat Stevens but not so much for his guitar but his writing and singing.
                                          Chuck Berry was a great influence on guys like Alvin Lee and The Beach Boys would have never been if not for CB. What's the guys name from Foghat. I always liked their song Sara Lee. Here's one:
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                                    • Profile picture of the author markgrove
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                                      • Profile picture of the author TimPhelan
                                        Hi Mark

                                        I think you read it wrong. I said I thought Elmore was an influence on SRV who was also influenced by Albert King, Jimi and others. Elmore was a huge influence on Jimi Hendrix, who early on performed as Muarice James and Jimmy James as a tribute to Elmore James.

                                        Elmore was influenced by Robert Johnson, Kokoma Arnold, Tampa Red and others.

                                        I wasn't aware his son is playing the blues. I would like to hear him play and sing.


                                        Originally Posted by markgrove View Post

                                        Hey man,didn't realize Elmore James was influenced by Albert King and Jimi.

                                        Elmore has a son--Elmore James Jr. and he's still playing out there.
                                        He has an album called Daddy gave me the Blues. Cadillac Zack an
                                        LA bluesman is his agent.

                                        If you want more info,I'll gladly send you some.Thanks for the little
                                        tid bit on Elmo.

                                        Peace to you man.

                                        Mark
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                                  • Profile picture of the author copius
                                    Hey all,

                                    Love this thread. was looking for one of Kurt's offerings and came across this.

                                    can't say any of the lists are without merit. Truthfully, it is whatever floats your boat. whatever you like. I haven't seen Toy Caldwell of the Marshall Tucker Band mentioned though.

                                    He gets a "thumbs up" from me. Really - check out the thumb work.

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                                  • Profile picture of the author Sonam22
                                    I can't understand how anyone could possibly rank them in order. It is subjective.This is an interesting list;
                                    1 Keith Richards
                                    2 Jimmy Page
                                    3 Ry Cooder
                                    4 7 Stevie Ray Vaughan
                                    5 Chuck Berry
                                    6 Robert Johnson
                                    7 Eric Clapton
                                    8 B. B. King
                                    9 Duane Allman
                                    10Jimi Hendrix
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                          • Profile picture of the author Kurt
                            Originally Posted by Killer Joe View Post

                            Yea, but Steve Cropper (Booker T and the MGs) and Duck Dunn (bass) were the backbone behind the Stax sound (Otis Redding, Johnnie Taylor, Wilson Pickett, et al) and where I grew up, Wash D.C., that was a major musical movement. He had a lot of influence.

                            KJ
                            That's fair and true. But Matt Guitar Murphy played with blues legend Pinetop Perkins and was one of the first guitar players to go electric. Their music was every bit as innovative during it's time.
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                    • Profile picture of the author Steven Wagenheim
                      Steve W, I thought Mick Ronson and Martin Barre were only my guilty pleasures
                      I have more guilty pleasures than I care to admit.

                      And because I doubt that anyone else will mention him, I ought to throw Jan Akkerman's name into the ring. He was the guitarist with the Dutch band, Focus
                      One of the most underrated bands from the early 70s. His lead on "Sylvia"
                      was absolutely amazing...one of my favorite songs of 1973.

                      I'd also like to tone down the macho-meter a touch and sing the praises of the great Joni Mitchell - a true original.
                      "Free Man In Paris" is my favorite Joni Mitchell songs and one of my
                      favorite songs from 1974.
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                      • Profile picture of the author Steven Wagenheim
                        I knew I forgot somebody I just have to add.

                        Michael Schenker


                        One of my all time favorite guitar solos.

                        Yes Frank, another guilty pleasure.
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                        • Profile picture of the author Karen Blundell
                          love this..sexy Brian..sigh...

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                        • Profile picture of the author jmidas
                          Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim View Post

                          I knew I forgot somebody I just have to add.

                          Michael Schenker
                          As soon as I saw the title of this thread, my first thought was Michael Schenker. After he left UFO, he formed MSG (Michael Schenker Group) and released a couple of albums. Just pure incredible guitar work.

                          The other at the very top of my list from my metal days is Richie Blackmore. After the first split with Deep Purple he formed Rainbow with a couple of other great metal musicians. Great stuff.

                          Rick Nielsen from Cheap Trick was pretty good too.

                          Also liked both Glen Tipton KK Downing of Judas Priest - especially live.

                          Enough of my metal days.

                          I'll also add:
                          Beck
                          Clapton
                          BB King
                          Steve Cropper
                          George Harrison (better than people give him credit for)
                          Jimi Hendrix
                          Chuck Berry - he kinda started it all
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                          • Profile picture of the author Carol666
                            In my opinion the best ten are :-

                            1. Steve Vai
                            2. Jon Petrucci (Dream Theater)
                            3. Criss Oliva (Savatage)
                            4. Trevor Rabin (Yes 90125)
                            5. John Sykes (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, Blue Murder)
                            6. Tommy Bolin (Deep Purple)
                            7. Rocky Athas (Black Oak Arkansas)
                            8. Andy Timmons (Solo)
                            9. Robin Trower (Procol Harum)
                            10. Gary Moore (Skid Row, Thin Lizzy)

                            Followed by Eric Sardinas (Solo), Robert Fripp (King Crimson), Al Di Meola........Damm I keep thinking of more great guitarists
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                      • Profile picture of the author Frank Donovan
                        Originally Posted by Steven Wagenheim View Post

                        One of the most underrated bands from the early 70s. His lead on "Sylvia"
                        was absolutely amazing...one of my favorite songs of 1973.
                        Yeah, Sylvia was a great song. My fave Akkerman lead is on "Tommy":






                        Frank
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                  • Profile picture of the author Steven Wagenheim
                    Originally Posted by Kurt View Post

                    Hey Steven,

                    Best is a matter of taste, but I want you to listen to this song, with both Jeff Beck and Clapton playing, and tell me which you like better. This isn't the greatest "guitar song" in the world and neither does anything special.

                    Even so, IMO JB's sound and playing is far and above what EC is doing...Clapton even breaks a smile at one point over JB's choices.

                    YouTube - JEFF BECK & ELIC CLAPTON - Futher On Up The Road
                    I envy those who actually got to see this live.

                    You're right Kurt, it's all about taste.

                    Beck, to me, was a showboat. His playing, while technically off the charts,
                    was missing something for me. I can't put my finger on it. Clapton, even
                    when he played slowly, sometimes moved me to tears (listen to Let it
                    Grow from 461 Ocean Blvd)

                    Clapton, IMO, is not the greatest technician that ever was or even close
                    to it. I don't know why people put him at the top of the list for chops. I
                    have him there for soul, if you know what I mean.

                    Beck, blew me away with this performance "technically" as he does so
                    often, but I'd rather listen to Clapton play.

                    Another problem, and this is the fault of commercial radio at least where
                    I live, Beck doesn't get anywhere near the airplay that Clapton does so
                    you really don't get the chance to hear as much of his work. You have to
                    be a real fan to get a good dose of his music. Maybe in some parts of the
                    world this is different, but here, you're lucky if you hear a Beck song once
                    a month. Clapton, along with the Beatles, Who, Led Zep and the Stones,
                    dominate the airwaves.

                    I absolutely concede that Jeff Beck plays as well as anybody I've ever
                    heard, except maybe Hendrix who also leaves me stone cold. Actually, I
                    enjoy Beck's playing more then Hendrix.

                    Maybe Hendrix was just too way out there for me. I never really "got" him.

                    Anyway, thanks for the video. I really enjoyed it.

                    Come to think of it, maybe I like JB more than I realize.
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            • Profile picture of the author lcombs
              Originally Posted by mwoeppel1 View Post

              Lots of Rock and Blues guys there! :p Man, the "greatest" is so subjective, it comes down to who you like.

              You said of all time....

              Not to take away from any of those guys, except I'd probably take Clapton off the list, even though I'm a huge fan. Put some jazz guys on the list, too.

              Ted Greene
              Django Reinhart
              Wes Montgomery
              Freddie King
              Zappa's on my list, too.
              Roy Buchanon
              Robert Johnson
              Chet Akins - finger numbingly good!
              Jimi - for sure
              can't think of a number 10...
              Yep!

              I would include;
              Stevie Ray
              Hendrix
              Atkins
              Clapton ( His rock stuff is good but, he studied Blues under Freddy King)
              from rock.

              However, the best are rarely heard.

              They come from Jazz and Blues.
              BB King
              Joe Pass

              Dominic Frasca

              In fact, I would have to say the best musicians over-all are in jazz.

              A couple of surprises come from country.

              Vince Gill
              Brad Paisley
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        • Profile picture of the author stonerpreneur
          Originally Posted by Liquification View Post

          No Jimmy Page?
          Seriously. I thought it was top 10 as in quality, not popularity.
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  • Profile picture of the author Loren Woirhaye
    This guy blows my mind. Still fairly young. Gerardo Nunez.
    Pure gypsy mastery. Paco DeLucia called him the most
    skilled technician in Flamenco... considering Paco's skills
    that's no light compliment.

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  • Profile picture of the author KimW
    I know a lot will disagree with me, but I would have Pete Townsend on that list.
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    • Profile picture of the author Killer Joe
      Originally Posted by KimW View Post

      I know a lot will disagree with me, but I would have Pete Townsend on that list.
      Anybody that disagrees with PT being on the list probably puts jelly in their omelets

      Can I get an Amen for Les Paul?

      KJ
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      • Profile picture of the author ThomM
        Originally Posted by Killer Joe View Post

        Anybody that disagrees with PT being on the list probably puts jelly in their omelets

        Can I get an Amen for Les Paul?

        KJ
        Wait a minute I put jelly in my omelets and thinks he should be on the list
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  • Profile picture of the author john_kennedy
    What? No Esteban? LOL< just kidding...John Mayer is actually pretty good.
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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt
    Originally Posted by solardave View Post

    Just wondering who you guys think are the best. Here goes mine.These may not be the best but they are my favorites.
    1) Stevie Ray Vaughan
    2) Carlos Santana
    3) Jimi Hendrix
    4) Eric Clapton
    5) Duane Allman (best slide ever)
    6) George Harrison
    7) Dickie Betts
    8) Roy Buchanon
    9) Stevie Vai
    10) Joe Satriani

    Not a bad list...But want to make a comment or two. I went to see SRV and Jeff Beck play together in LA in about 1990. After the concert Guitar Player Magazine interviewed SRV and asked what it was like to play with Jeff Beck.

    SRV replied "Very intimidating". His girl friend interupted and said something like "...but in a good way?" SRV replied "not really'.

    Also, about the same time a poll came out where just about every known UK guitarist was asked who the best of their peers was. Something like 75% responded "Jeff Beck". All the other players split the remaining votes.

    Both Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page have said JB was the best, all three of them once played in the Yardbirds.

    Not having JB on any best guitar player list can 't happen. PS. I consider Satriani a "poor man's" JB.

    Here's my list:

    1. Hendrix - He changed EVERYTHING. Listen to Clapton, Page, Beck and every other player before Hendrix, then after. Hendrix was far better than his contemporaries and he changed their sound. Remember, Hendrix dies at age 27.

    2. Jeff Beck - Jeff is now better than Jimi was, but when they were both alive, Hendrix was the better player. JB is famous for practicing 6-10 hours a day, every day. Over time, he became better. Beck's had songs that have taken other players YEARS to duplicate.

    3. John McLaughlin - He may actually be the best, but I don't like jazz as much as rock and blues. LOL

    4. Chuck Berry - Doesn't get the credit he deserves, but he's the been copied by more players than anyone else. His impact on rock and roll is immense. Plus, he was the first guitar player in rock to be better known than the lead singer and pretty much invented the role of lead guitar player.

    5. Johnny Winter - The REAL best slide player on the planet and probably the "meanest" player ever.

    6. SRV - Probably the greatest "jammer" of all time. He could play on and on and never repeat. At times, seems like he was "channeling" a higher forxe.

    7. Stanley Jordan - he may be the best of them all, but again, I'm not into jazz guitar, so he's been downgraded a bit.

    8. Roy Buchanan - Once you've learned his sound, you'll be able to tell a Roy Buchanan song just by the sound of the guitrar.

    9. Son House - The first true guitar hero. Taught Robert Johnson how to play. I believe Son House is the first "modern" guitar player.

    10. Robert Johnson - Johnson was great at playing bass and lead at the same time. Clapton has said he's tried for 40 years to play Johnson's 38-20 blues and still can't get it just right. Keith Richards said when he first heard a RJ album, he asked who the GUYS were playing guitar and was told it was only one guy. Died after recording only a few songs (about 36) so never got to reach his full potential. Wouldn't let anyone see him play and would turn his back to the crowd, to protect his techniques.


    Honorable mention:

    Buddy Guy - As soulful as it gets. Hendrix's favorite.

    Hound Dog Taylor - Maybe not great player, but to use Hound Dog's own words, "I can't play shit, but it sure sounds good". It does sound good. Best house rocking bar band of all time.

    Les Paul - Probably the most influential player of all time. Invented the solid body electric guitar, whammy bar, waa waa pedal and more. Even has one of the most famous guitars of all time named after him.

    Zappa and Alvin Lee - The two original speed players.
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    • Profile picture of the author Karen Blundell
      Originally Posted by Kurt View Post

      Not a bad list...But want to make a comment or two. I went to see SRV and Jeff Beck play together in LA in about 1990. After the concert Guitar Player Magazine interviewed SRV and asked what it was like to play with Jeff Beck.

      SRV replied "Very intimidating". His girl friend interupted and said something like "...but in a good way?" SRV replied "not really'.

      Also, about the same time a poll came out where just about every known UK guitarist was asked who the best of their peers was. Something like 75% responded "Jeff Beck". All the other players split the remaining votes.

      Both Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page have said JB was the best, all three of them once played in the Yardbirds.

      Not having JB on any best guitar player list can 't happen. PS. I consider Satriani a "poor man's" JB.

      Here's my list:

      1. Hendrix - He changed EVERYTHING. Listen to Clapton, Page, Beck and every other player before Hendrix, then after. Hendrix was far better than his contemporaries and he changed their sound. Remember, Hendrix dies at age 27.

      2. Jeff Beck - Jeff is now better than Jimi was, but when they were both alive, Hendrix was the better player. JB is famous for practicing 6-10 hours a day, every day. Over time, he became better. Beck's had songs that have taken other players YEARS to duplicate.

      3. John McLaughlin - He may actually be the best, but I don't like jazz as much as rock and blues. LOL

      4. Chuck Berry - Doesn't get the credit he deserves, but he's the been copied by more players than anyone else. His impact on rock and roll is immense. Plus, he was the first guitar player in rock to be better known than the lead singer and pretty much invented the role of lead guitar player.

      5. Johnny Winter - The REAL best slide player on the planet and probably the "meanest" player ever.

      6. SRV - Probably the greatest "jammer" of all time. He could play on and on and never repeat. At times, seems like he was "channeling" a higher forxe.

      7. Stanley Jordan - he may be the best of them all, but again, I'm not into jazz guitar, so he's been downgraded a bit.

      8. Roy Buchanan - Once you've learned his sound, you'll be able to tell a Roy Buchanan song just by the sound of the guitrar.

      9. Son House - The first true guitar hero. Taught Robert Johnson how to play. I believe Son House is the first "modern" guitar player.

      10. Robert Johnson - Johnson was great at playing bass and lead at the same time. Clapton has said he's tried for 40 years to play Johnson's 38-20 blues and still can't get it just right. Keith Richards said when he first heard a RJ album, he asked who the GUYS were playing guitar and was told it was only one guy. Died after recording only a few songs (about 36) so never got to reach his full potential. Wouldn't let anyone see him play and would turn his back to the crowd, to protect his techniques.


      Honorable mention:

      Buddy Guy - As soulful as it gets. Hendrix's favorite.

      Hound Dog Taylor - Maybe not great player, but to use Hound Dog's own words, "I can't play shit, but it sure sounds good". It does sound good. Best house rocking bar band of all time.

      Les Paul - Probably the most influential player of all time. Invented the solid body electric guitar, whammy bar, waa waa pedal and more. Even has one of the most famous guitars of all time named after him.

      Zappa and Alvin Lee - The two original speed players.

      love your list especially since you added Alvin Lee in there, who is, imho, very under-rated.

      I would also add these guitarists to my list:
      Brian May from Queen (he's just brilliant!)
      Alex Lifeson from Rush (also awesome!)
      John Hammond Jr. (fantastic blues guitarist-a musician's musician-if you know what I mean)



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  • Profile picture of the author AmericanWoman888
    Ah, I could spend all day on this, but a quick review of my faves would reveal:

    Jimmy Page
    Eric Clapton
    Carlos Santana
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  • Profile picture of the author KimW
    I'm not going to scroll back and reread, but I'm pretty sure someone mentioned Alex Lifeson.
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    • Profile picture of the author Killer Joe
      Originally Posted by KimW View Post

      I'm not going to scroll back and reread, but I'm pretty sure someone mentioned Alex Lifesonn.
      D'oh! Yea Steve mentioned him.

      Never mind...

      I don't have any of his albums, but I watched a guy named Steve Johnson onstage with a bunch of other guys (Buddy Guy was on stage ) and out of the six or seven players there, all big names, SJ just blew me away.

      I think he has a tribute album to Stevie Ray.

      KJ
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  • Profile picture of the author stonerpreneur
    Originally Posted by solardave View Post

    Just wondering who you guys think are the best. Here goes mine.These may not be the best but they are my favorites.
    1) Stevie Ray Vaughan
    2) Carlos Santana
    3) Jimi Hendrix
    4) Eric Clapton
    5) Duane Allman (best slide ever)
    6) George Harrison
    7) Dickie Betts
    8) Roy Buchanon
    9) Stevie Vai
    10) Joe Satriani
    .....really? people are going with Santana? This is all pretty embarrassing.
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  • Profile picture of the author Dave Allen
    This is always subjective choosing the top 10 greatest, but here's a few more to throw into the mix.

    Angus Young is another prolific player. As is Leslie West.

    A good buddy of mine played keyboards with Richie Blackmore's Rainbow, with Ronnie James Dio and Cosy Powell on drums (I believe played with Beck) (I think my friend said he recorded with Rush too) Definitely, Beck was THE player between him, Clapton and Page. (again, it's a matter of choice)

    Can't forget David Gilmour either.

    Jeff Healey is actually a damn good guitar player too. So is Randy Rhodes. (RIP to both)
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    • Profile picture of the author Kurt
      Originally Posted by Dave Allen View Post

      This is always subjective choosing the top 10 greatest, but here's a few more to throw into the mix.

      Angus Young is another prolific player. As is Leslie West.

      A good buddy of mine played keyboards with Richie Blackmore's Rainbow, with Ronnie James Dio and Cosy Powell on drums (I believe played with Beck) (I think my friend said he recorded with Rush too) Definitely, Beck was THE player between him, Clapton and Page. (again, it's a matter of choice)

      Can't forget David Gilmour either.

      Jeff Healey is actually a damn good guitar player too. So is Randy Rhodes. (RIP to both)
      Cozy Powell did play with Beck.

      Actually, the guy that replaced both Richie Blackmore in Deep Purple and Jow Walsh in the James Gang was Tommy Bolin, who was a hell of a player in his own right. Was just ready to break into the big time when he died in his 20's in the mid 1970s. Tommy Bolin is from my home town of Boulder CO and is still a legend in that part of the world.

      Anyone here heard of Tommy Bolin?
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      • Profile picture of the author KimW
        Originally Posted by Kurt View Post

        Actually, the guy that replaced both Richie Blackmore in Deep Purple and Jow Walsh in the James Gang was Tommy Bolin, who was a hell of a player in his own right. Was just ready to break into the big time when he died in his 20's in the mid 1970s. Tommy Bolin is from my home town of Boulder CO and is still a legend in that part of the world.

        Anyone here heard of Tommy Bolin?
        I saw Tommy Bolin play with the James Gang.
        He was on with another of my favorites, Tim Buckley.
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    • Profile picture of the author CDarklock
      Originally Posted by Dave Allen View Post

      A good buddy of mine played keyboards with Richie Blackmore's Rainbow, with Ronnie James Dio and Cosy Powell on drums
      Best. Band. Ever.

      "Long Live Rock and Roll," best album ever.

      "Gates of Babylon," best solo ever. "Comfortably Numb" be damned.
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  • Profile picture of the author John M Kane
    Paco D Lucia
    Julian Bream
    A Segovia
    Tommy Emanuel
    Montgomery
    Rory Gallagher
    Cat Stevens
    Robbie Robertson
    Jorma Kaukonen
    Jeff Lynn
    Beck
    Ron Wood
    Nils Lofgren
    Django
    Doc Watson
    Danny gatton
    Bob Dylan
    Herb Ellis
    Charlie Byrd
    Barney Kessel
    Tony Rice
    Jeff Skunk Baxter
    Joe Walsh
    way more still but that's enough for now
    and here's a list I wouldn't debate
    TOP 100 GUITAR PLAYERS OF ALL TIME
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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt
    Hey Tim,

    Here's one reason why I have Son House a little ahead of Robert Johnson, as well as the fact that House taught Johnson how to play...

    Although the video was recorded in 1967, the song was written in about 1930 and from what I understand, Son House played it the same way back then...

    Here's a nice piece of history for fans of modern American music:

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  • Profile picture of the author rypher21
    ...where's Jennifer Batten and Slash???
    this 2 are awesome guitar players...
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  • Profile picture of the author Bakai
    Not really into music but I would have to say David Gilmour of Pink Floyd.

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    • Profile picture of the author solardave
      Kurt,

      As far as Alvin Lee he gets my vote. Best show I ever saw.He is not in it for the money.I caught America's got talent the other night and there was this 8yr old boy playing blues.Awesome little kid. His Dad said the boy is teaching him about music. I couldn't find the link .Sorry.
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      • Profile picture of the author Kurt
        Originally Posted by solardave View Post

        Kurt,

        As far as Alvin Lee he gets my vote. Best show I ever saw.He is not in it for the money.I caught America's got talent the other night and there was this 8yr old boy playing blues.Awesome little kid. His Dad said the boy is teaching him about music. I couldn't find the link .Sorry.
        Hey Dave,

        I posted above that Alvin Lee was the best concert I ever went to...I think someone else did too. My ex said Alvin Lee was the best concert she ever went to. There seems to be a trend.

        And our reasons are all the same. There were no theatrics, light shows, fancy choreogreaphy. Just a guy wearing levi's and a tshirt with his band.

        What we saw was a guy that really loved being there as much, or more than we did. There was no "barrier" between the performer and the audience and we all felt like part of the fun. He'd slap hands with folks in the crowd, took everyone's request, and talked to us like we were in a friend's living room.

        Alvin Lee is what rock and roll should be all about...The music and just having fun. It puts a smile on my face just thinking about him.
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  • Profile picture of the author solardave
    Liquification,

    Sorry. I saw Page twice live. IMHO he is a studio only guitar player. I've talked to several people that said the same thing before I even commented on him.Both times he stunk up the place live.
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  • Profile picture of the author solardave
    I'd like to add some others if I may.

    Jeff Beck is great (Going Down is my favorite) No! The song!
    I can't believe I missed Alvin Lee. I saw him around the mid 80's in a club in Tampa.He did requests all night. we sat on the floor close enough to touch him. The last song he played was his tribute to who he called the greatest of all time. (Hendrix) Hey Joe.When I saw Roy Buchanon he also did Hey Joe.
    Ever heard of Leo Kotke.He is a master 12 string player.
    Steve Miller 's uncle taught him to play guitar so I add him.His uncle-Les Paul.
    It's said but I can't prove it that Hendrix taught Ron Isley to play. "Who's that lady" is a great song.
    I think you can't fully appreciate Carlos Santana until you listen to Europa Live. Also back in the day they say when Hendrix heard Billy Gibbons play he said he was the best to come around in awhile.
    Foghat is one of my favorite bands (Sara Lee)Great song
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    • Profile picture of the author Kurt
      Originally Posted by solardave View Post

      I'd like to add some others if I may.

      Jeff Beck is great (Going Down is my favorite) No! The song!
      I can't believe I missed Alvin Lee. I saw him around the mid 80's in a club in Tampa.He did requests all night. we sat on the floor close enough to touch him. The last song he played was his tribute to who he called the greatest of all time. (Hendrix) Hey Joe.When I saw Roy Buchanon he also did Hey Joe.
      Ever heard of Leo Kotke.He is a master 12 string player.
      Steve Miller 's uncle taught him to play guitar so I add him.His uncle-Les Paul.
      It's said but I can't prove it that Hendrix taught Ron Isley to play. "Who's that lady" is a great song.
      I think you can't fully appreciate Carlos Santana until you listen to Europa Live. Also back in the day they say when Hendrix heard Billy Gibbons play he said he was the best to come around in awhile.
      Foghat is one of my favorite bands (Sara Lee)Great song
      "Going Down" was my favorite song for a long time in the 70s. I still love it. I have about 7-8 versions of the song in my iPod by different folks, but none come close to JBs version.

      My first concert ever was Ten Years After, I was like 14. I also saw Alvin Lee when he went solo and think it's the best live show I ever saw. Just like you, Alvin just stood on stage, tallking with the audience, shaking hands with those close to the stage and taking requests. He didn't have any fancy production or light shows, he was just into having fun with the crowd. Alvin Lee is one guy that's a 1000 times better live than recorded.
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  • Profile picture of the author Robertas
    SLASH and his part in November Rain - amazing
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  • Profile picture of the author sox123
    I would have to agree with Jimi Hendrix, but I also likke the guitarist Darren from System of a down, he's pretty wikked.
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  • Profile picture of the author Patrician
    Yes, I would say it is a very comprehensive list. I can't think of anyone to add but just to agree the best of the most IMHO:

    Chuck Berry
    Jimi Hendrix
    Link Wray
    Frank Zappa
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  • Profile picture of the author KimW
    Kurt,
    there were a couple names that I would consider young, notably Slash.
    But to be honest, he is nowhere near the caliber of a lot of the ones names in this thread.
    You are right for the most part that the younger generation isn't producing musicians,but then, they aren't producing music.
    Most of what comes out nowadays is,to be honest, slop.
    Most of what they call music now isn't music, it's production.
    Of course, there are exceptions.
    Three Doors Down,Better Than Ezra,GreenDay,but even these are "old" to a lot of the kids.....
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    • Profile picture of the author Kurt
      Originally Posted by KimW View Post

      Kurt,
      there were a couple names that I would consider young, notably Slash.
      But to be honest, he is nowhere near the caliber of a lot of the ones names in this thread.
      And Slash isn't really of this "current" generation. Is there a great guitar player under 32?

      Johnny Lang and Lenny Kravitz are good players, but I can't put them on this list. And I think they're both older than 32. Lang is probably close to that age, but I don't think he's popular with that generation and it's older folks that listen to Johnny Lang. (I could be wrong)
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  • Profile picture of the author BudWells
    I'd like to see Bucket Head on the list. He is quite good.
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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt
    Here's a very good guitar player not on the list...Steve Morse of the (Dixie) Dregs.
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  • Profile picture of the author Michael Motley
    SRV
    EVH
    Santana

    do you really need anyone else?
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  • Profile picture of the author Dave Allen
    Hey Kurt,

    Tommy Bolin was great too. All the guys in Deep Purple were amazed at how good he was. Unfortunately, he passed away at 25. (RIP)

    A couple other greats -- Ronny Montrose and Rory Gallagher.
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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt
    Thanks Dave...

    Hey Tim...The talk of Tommy Bolin had me searching Youtube and I stumbled on this video, both John Mclaughlin and Tommy Bolin playing the same song. Tommy definetly holds his own...

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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt
    Another example of Jeff Beck's range...Here he is playing with two of the great opera singers of all time...A really beautiful song:

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    • Profile picture of the author Lawrh
      Lots of great ax men here, but no mention of the king of single string blues-

      Muddy Waters
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  • Profile picture of the author KnightOwl83
    1. Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top)
    2. Eddie VanHalen (VanHalen)
    3. Keith Richards (Rolling Stones)
    4. Jimi Hendrix
    5. Eric Clapton
    6. Tom Morello (Rage Against The Machine)
    7. John Frusciante ( Chili Peppers)
    8. Angus Young (AC/DC)
    9. Kurt Cobain (Nirvana)
    10. Jerry Cantrell (Alice In Chains)
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    • Profile picture of the author Karen Blundell
      one of my all time fave bands is Yes
      and Steve Howe is a wicked guitarist
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      • Profile picture of the author whateverpedia
        Originally Posted by Karen Blundell View Post

        one of my all time fave bands is Yes
        and Steve Howe is a wicked guitarist
        I've just been scanning through this thread waiting for someone to mention Mr Howe, and many thanks for the vid. It certainly made my Mood For A Day anyway.
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  • Profile picture of the author Dave Allen
    I don't know if it was mentioned already, but Mark Knopfler and Rick Emmett are two other great guitarists.
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  • Profile picture of the author nouman zafar
    Banned
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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt
    And another classic from Alvin Lee and Ten Years After:

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  • Profile picture of the author daryamconsult_aust
    Angus Young from ACDC
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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt
    Most influential guitar player not on this list (until now):
    Bo Didley

    Here's a Bo Didley song from 1959 that was extremely "progressive", and taken in the context of the time it was written, it's really "out there".. Sorry about the poor audio, it's the only version of this song I could find on Youtube:

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    • Profile picture of the author Killer Joe
      If you love pickin', Vince Gill is one of the best. And "Oklahoma Borderline" is one of my favs.

      When he was with Pure Prairie League they had a tune "Amy" that also is a favorite of mine.

      Makes me sorry I ever sold my Telecaster. Enjoy...


      KJ
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    • Profile picture of the author TimPhelan
      Ahh, but you missed my mention of Mr. Diddley on the first page. Bo was definitely one of the greatest and most influential guitarists. Lady Bo was cool also. I saw her several times.

      Originally Posted by Kurt View Post

      Most influential guitar player not on this list (until now):
      Bo Didley

      Here's a Bo Didley song from 1959 that was extremely "progressive", and taken in the context of the time it was written, it's really "out there".. Sorry about the poor audio, it's the only version of this song I could find on Youtube:

      YouTube - Bo Diddley "Mumblin' Guitar" (Optical Microphone Version)
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  • Profile picture of the author GeorgeO7
    This is a great thread. Some very fine players on this list to be sure. Here are a few more that haven't been mentioned.

    Frank Marino of Mahogany Rush is just AMAZING.

    Monte Montgomery

    Tommy Emmanuel

    Michael Hedges

    Eric Johnson

    Kim Simmonds - Savoy Brown

    George Lynch

    Lee Ritenour

    Pat Metheny
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  • Profile picture of the author benz
    Just loved Gary Moore playing Parisienne Walkways
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  • Profile picture of the author gurukid22
    Carlos Santana all the way
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  • Profile picture of the author pianolessonsonline
    Chet Atkins .... Number 1 by far the greatest guitar player that ever lived.
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  • Profile picture of the author raydp
    Some great names mentioned and I love most of them. One I didn't notice was the great Albert Lee. I've seen him live loads of times with Bill Wyman and the rhythm kings and he never fails to amaze me. Here's one of his best known:


    Another great, but rarely mentioned guitarist is "Big" Jim Sullivan who along with Chris Spedding has played on, possibly most of the UK chart recordings over the last 25-30 years. They, as session men, rarely get the recognition they deserve.

    Django is still in a class of his own too.

    Ray
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  • Profile picture of the author shatner
    Here's my own list - Slash - Eric Clapton - Santana
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  • Profile picture of the author dano23
    What about Phil Keaggy? Incredible.
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    • Profile picture of the author Bart Loos
      Oh man great thread..

      My favourites are already mentioned I guess.. but in no particular order

      Paco Di Lucia
      John McLaughlin
      Al di Meola
      Slash (his solo's in the old days are killa.) Due to him I got this limited vintage Les Paul
      Nuno Bettencourt
      Jimi Hendrix
      Robert Johnson
      David Gilmour
      Stevie Ray V.
      Alvin Lee.. man I used to go watch them in the early nineties, .... he used to say .. let's us bring you back to Woodstock
      The Edge he does this delay thing in such an unique own way
      Robbie Krieger although he isn't that great technically imo he just shaped the sound of that band with his unique style..
      Zakk Wylde.. i love his kick ass attitude

      .. I can keep going on Beck, Clapton, Page, The guys in Metallica, .. oh that guy from Pantera.. what's his name again?...

      Vai? I don't know his just soulless in my book though he's funny in that Crossroads movie.

      Satriani nah.. though I was into his stuff 15 years ago

      But one of my favourit guitar pieces.. which I used to play with a friend of mine.. though we never managed to get it down beyond 90 secs.




      Have fun

      Bart
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  • Profile picture of the author snowingsomewhere
    Impossible question, but a fun one. I'll go with SRV, Paco de Lucia, Matthias Jabs, Jeff Beck (might be the best), Kelly Joe Phelps, Larry Carlton, Joe Satriani, David Gilmour and Eric Johnson, oh one more, tough, but I'll go with The Edge.
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  • Profile picture of the author Tim Thach
    I really enjoy David Gilmore's style of play. But I think he's a little repetitious with his riffs.

    How 'bout a vote for Elvin Bishop of "Fooled around and fell in love" fame?
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  • Profile picture of the author Rich Lowe
    Eric Clapton,

    Jimmy Hendrix

    Mark Knopfler

    Noel Gallagher

    And probably a hundred more..lol

    Rich
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  • Profile picture of the author solardave
    I went to a concert in Ohio about 30 some years ago. The bands were:
    Heart
    ELO
    J.Geils Band
    Alvin Bishop
    Steve Miller
    Roy Buchanan
    and some local bands.
    It was a really good show that lasted all weekend.
    When I lived in Orlando they would put on free shows in the summer at Church Street Station
    I got to see Leon Russell do Jumpin Jack Flash/Youngblood
    I saw Dave Mason
    Blackfoot
    Peter Frampton with Steve Marriott (just before he died) and they did 30 Days in the Hole.
    BTO was pretty good there too.
    All for free!
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  • Profile picture of the author Kurt
    Here's one more from Jeff Beck...Listen to his solo at about 2:10.

    But if you listen to nothing else, check out JB on the second song, at about 6:00. JB says it's the hardest song he plays because it's so hard to stay in tune. I guarantee you have never heard sounds like this come from a guitar, and there's no foot pedals or other tricks involved:

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  • Profile picture of the author solardave
    Kurt,

    That's awesome. Almost sounds like a Violin at times on song 2.
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  • Profile picture of the author Richard Tunnah
    Difficult one but I'll give it a go...

    Hendrix, Clapton, Slash, Prince, Knopfler, May

    ...

    Rich
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  • Profile picture of the author madison_avenue
    Eric Clapton

    Ali Faka Toure

    George Harrison : The Beatles

    Johnny Marr : The Smiths

    Jimmy Page : Led Zeppelin

    Bernard Sumner : Joy Division

    Tony Iomi : Black Sabbath

    My personal choice because I liked their styles.
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  • Profile picture of the author BoJon
    In no particular order:

    Yngwie Malmsteen
    John Sykes
    Jake E. Lee
    Eddie Van Halen
    Ace Frehley
    John Norum
    Dave Mustaine
    Mick Mars
    Steve Vai
    Rob Marcello
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  • Profile picture of the author lcombs
    Oh...
    I would also include Leo Kottke.
    Possibly the most under-rated
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