10 Best Guitarists of All Time – Controversial…

Author: Tyler Connaghan

Tyler Connaghan is a guitarist, singer, producer, composer & engineer based in Los Angeles, California. Tyler has been playing the guitar since 2007. In between writing for guitar publications, he produces music for film and television. His favorite axe is his custom Pelham Blue Fender Stratocaster.

Expertise: music industry, producing, acoustic & electric guitars, songwriting

Bachelor of Science in Music Industry Studies, Music Industry

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Editing & Research: Teemu Suomala

I first grabbed the guitar in 2009. I started this website in January 2020 because I couldn’t do window installation anymore due to my health problems. I love guitars and have played dozens and dozens of different guitars through different amps and pedals over the years, and also, building a website interested me, so I decided to just go for it! I got lucky and managed to get awesome people to help me with my website.

I also got lucky because I have you visiting my website right now. Thank you. I do all this for you guys. If you have any recommendations, tips, or feedback, just leave a comment, I would love to chat with you. I have also been fortunate to produce content for several large guitar websites, such as Songsterr, Musicnotes, GuitarGuitar, and Ultimate Guitar.

I spend my spare time exercising and hanging out with my wife and crazy dog (I guess that went the right way…).

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There are so many guitarists that have made significant contributions to the world of music (more than we could possibly sum up in one article), leaving an undeniable mark on the generations after.

Alongside their musical prowess, many of these guitar greats are or were just as charismatic on the stage as they were playing their instruments, delivering awe-inspiring performances to match their artistry. 

Just about every guitarist learned to play the guitar because they heard someone play that changed their lives for the better. I know when I first picked up my cheap yard sale Martin guitar at 12 years old, it was these guitarists that I looked up to. 

Come dive in as we celebrate 10 legendary guitarists who have electrified the world with their talents and whose music remains timeless.

Our other Top 10 guitarist lists:

–10 Best Blues Guitarists of All Time

–10 Best Rock Guitarists of All Time

–10 Best Metal Guitarists of All Time

–10 Best Jazz Guitarists of All Time

–10 Best Guitar Solos of All Time

Note! Reveal your top 10 list in the comments down below, we would love to hear it!

How Did We Choose The Best Guitarists

Of course, with so many great guitarists throughout history, the selection process was no walk in the park. There were plenty of factors and considerations to think about.

However, in trying to be as thorough as possible with my list, I based it on some common criteria, including:

• Technical Skill: I looked at the guitarist’s technical proficiency, including how well they’ve mastered various playing styles, speed, accuracy, and more.
• Innovation: Did they push the boundaries of music in one way or another? Maybe they introduced new techniques, styles, or sounds. Creativity is a major factor and contributes to their recognition as influential figures.
• Influence: A guitarist’s impact and influence on other musicians was a big consideration, including whether or not they inspired future generations or created completely new genres or sub-genres.
• Stage Presence: There are many people that can shred at home, though the ability to captivate an audience on stage requires charisma and showmanship. For that reason, I included their ability to connect with crowds and play memorable live shows.
• Legacy: I also took into account their bodies of work and their discographies. What was the quality and impact of their recorded material? Did they receive any awards, chart success, or longevity in their careers?

As you probably know, making a list like this is a completely subjective process.

A list of “best guitarists” for anyone can heavily vary based on preferences or cultural context. There will likely be some great guitarists that I leave out or some guitarists that you think are not so great that I include. 

No matter, these are the players that have had a profound impact on my life, and I can only hope that you agree or discover something new!

Let’s dive in!

10 Best Guitar Players of All Time

1. Jimi Hendrix

Guitar of Choice: While Hendrix played Gibson SG and Flying Vs, he was best know for his white 1968 Fender Stratocaster

Upon his arrival in the UK in 1966, Jimi Hendrix, a Seattle-born left-handed Fender Strat guitarist, single-handedly transformed the landscape of rock ‘n’ roll with his virtuosic mastery of electric blues. 

Hendrix was different than most guitarists at the time. He had an explosive interpretation of R&B, coupled with his awe-inspiring ability to play solos using his teeth. In fact, there are many that say he overshadowed even the most revered guitar deity of the 1960s, Eric Clapton. 

Even Clapton himself later admitted, “He astounded everyone beyond belief. It’s an achievement that no one will ever surpass.” With monumental tracks like “Purple Haze,” “Castles Made of Sand,” and his unique rendition of “All Along the Watchtower” by the famed Bob Dylan, this iconic guitarist arguably accomplished for the world of rock ‘n’ roll what Mozarty achieved for classical music. 

And though he certainly could have plugged straight into an amp and wailed away for hours with his audience’s attention locked in, he wasn’t afraid to step outside the line. By fearlessly embracing effects pedals, from wah-wah to distortion, both of which can be heard n “Voodoo Child (Slight Return).” Hendrix personified the essence of psychedelia and transformed the sonic landscape of the 1960s. 

Check “Voodoo Child (Slight Return)” live performance:

As with many rock guitarists at the time, Hendrix was largely self-taught and had limited formal music theory training. While this allowed him to explore more unconventional approaches to playing, it also meant that he may have faced challenges in articulating his musical ideas from a traditional standpoint.

Nonetheless, with his talent and touch, he didn’t ever seem to need it.

There is no doubt that he has a rightful place among the greatest guitarists in the history of the craft.

Strengths 

• Expressive Playing: Jimi had the ability to convey emotions like no other guitarist could
• Versatile Player: He was proficient in multiple genres, from blues to rock to funk to psychedelia
• Innovative Pioneer: He expanded on what was possible with guitar, using unusual tools and techniques like wah-wah pedals and feedback.

Weaknesses 

• Performance Inconsistency: Though he was an incredible player, he didn’t have the best technical consistency in his live performances.

2. Jimmy Page

Guitar of Choice: Page is most famously associated with his 1958 Gibson Les Paul Standard. Another notable guitar is the double-neck Gibson EDS-1275.

Jimmy Page, the six-string visionary behind the iconic classic rock band Led Zeppelin, is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists in history. With his distinctive style, he combined blues rock with intricate and off-the-wall riffage, essentially transforming Jimi Hendrix’s revolutionary spirit into something completely new.

Many could argue that Page is one of the reasons rock bands became so massively popular. His contributions laid the groundwork for the development of stadium rock and heavy metal.

While there’s no denying that “Stairway to Heaven” is one of Page’s most important songs, seamlessly incorporating elements of English folk music and heavy rock, all while demonstrating his songwriting prowess, there are so many other tracks I love to start people off with if they’ve never gotten into the world of Led Zeppelin.

Take a listen to tracks like “Whole Lotta Love,” where he channels the fervent intensity of blues music, infusing it with his own heavy-handed, electrifying spirit. You also have his exploration of more exotic sounds on tracks like “Kashmir,” which showcased his ability to blend diverse musical elements. It was an unusual take for rock n’ roll at the time, though it worked.

Check “Whole Lotta Love” life performance:

Of course, beyond his musical abilities was his larger-than-life persona. He and the boys from Zeppelin dominated the music world in the 1970s, and he quickly became one of the most recognizable rock stars on the planet.

And while Zeppelin’s aesthetic was filled with lore, Page seemed like an ancient mythical wizard, building an otherwordly mythos around himself, both on stage and off. His playing was an extension of his aura, and his ability to captivate audiences worldwide was undeniable. 

There’s no doubt that Jimmy Page’s powerhouse talent left an immortal impression on rock music that continues to resonate today.

Strengths 

• Versatile: Page was known for his ability to blend numerous genres, such as blues, rock, and folk, seamlessly. 
• Arrangement Skills: Page’s guitar-driven compositions were some of the most complex and intricate at the time.
• Stage Presence: His presence on stage made Zeppelin one of the most commanding live acts throughout the 70s

Weaknesses 

• Sloppiness: Though Page was undoubtedly a talented guitarist, there were many moments of inconsistency during Zeppelin’s live performances.

3. Brian May

Guitar of Choice: Custom “Red Special”

I’ll never forget my long drives to school in the morning with my mom blasting Queen’s “A Night at the Opera” record in the front seat. Alongside the Beatles, Queen was one of my first true explorations into music.

Brian May, the lead guitarist of Queen, was an extraordinary talent, and though Freddie Mercury held it down as the face of the band and the greatest performer of all time, no one could match May’s innovative approach to playing. Of course, we can’t go without mentioning his gorgeous custom guitar, affectionately known as the Red Special. 

What’s unique about May is that to play guitar in Queen, he temporarily set aside his dreams of becoming an astrophysicist. 

Check “Another One Bites The Dust” -live performance:

Who knew that his musical aspirations would take him to the stars anyway?

He used a unique blend of masterful fretwork and hard-rock power chords, acting as the driving force behind Freddie Mercury’s extravagantly theatrical rock operas, such as the iconic “Bohemian Rhapsody.” His explosive solo still sends shivers down my spine today (yup, I went there).

Strengths 

• Unique Tone: Brian May had a distinctive guitar tone, thanks to the use of his “Red Special” and AC-30 amplifiers
• Melodic Playing: His playing wa characterized by his ability to create memorable, melodic guitar arrangements
• Precision: May’s accuracy was out of this world, allowing him to play high-energy solos

Weaknesses 

• Less Experimental: May’s playing style remained pretty consistent throughout his career, and he often didn’t explore outside the box like other great guitarists

4. Eric Clapton

Guitar of Choice: Clapton was best-known for his use of vintage and signature edition Fender Strats, particularly his custom model named “Blackie.”

Before the rise of Jimi Hendrix in the 1960s, the walls of London echoed with graffiti proclaiming, “Clapton Is God.” His blues mastery, rooted in his time with the supergroup Cream and John Mayall’s Bluesbreakers, was consistently impressive throughout his illustrious career (which, by the way, is STILL going strong today).

Whether it’s the heartfelt sincerity of “Tears in Heaven” or the euphoric road trip riffs of “Layla,” he has continuously amazed listeners with his virtuosic abilities. There are few players that can make their guitars sing quite like him.

Check “Wonderful Tonight”- live performance:

While his music speaks for itself, he has also been the recipient of numerous awards. Beyond his 18 Grammy Awards (the most Grammy wins by a male solo artist), he has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on three separate occasions: once as a solo artist, another time for his work in Cream, and once more as a member of the Yardbirds.

Strengths 

• Technical Ability: Clapton had total command over a wide range of playing techniques, from vibrato to bending to blues improvisation
• Blues Mastery: Clapton is often considered one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time
• Collaborative Nature: Whether in a band setting or as a session player, Clapton worked well with numerous musicians throughout his career

Weaknesses 

• Heavy Reliance on Blues: Clapton’s playing style can feel a bit predictable at times

5. David Gilmour

Guitar of Choice: Iconic “Black Strat”

Drawing inspiration from Syd Barret’s psychedelic soundscapes, David Gilmour, the co-founder of Pink Floyd, used his iconic “Black Strat” to craft an unparalleled guitar tone.

To this day, his ability to create ethereal and otherwordly atmospheres is unmatched. He had an instinctive flair for soul-stirring improvisation, too, propelling Pink Floyd to the forefront of progressive rock. 

From the soaring, celestial riffs in “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” to the blistering, blues-infused solo on “Money,” it was Gilmour’s musical prowess that cemented the band’s status as a prog-rock powerhouse.

Of course, it’s the legendary solo heard on “Comfortably Numb” that is widely recognized as one of the greatest of all time. He carefully bridged the realms of jazz-rock and psychedelic music, wandering into uncharted territories.

His groundbreaking contributions to Pink Floyd and innovative approach to playing rightly position him among the greatest guitarists ever.

Strengths 

• Dynamic Mastery: Gilmour has exceptional control over the dynamics of his playing, which is evident in his solos
• Unique Tone: His guitar tone is equally legendary
• Layered Arrangements: Gilmour had a knack for creating multi-layered guitar arrangements, the pinnacle of the Pink Floyd sound

Weaknesses 

• Not the Most Technical: Gilmour often prioritzed melody and expressiveness over technical complexity

6. Eddie Van Halen

Guitar of Choice: The “Frankenstrat,” which was a custom-made axe with a Strat-style body and Gibson-style humbucker pickups

Eddie Van Halen was a true trailblazer in the rock world. 

Like Hendrix, he defied conventions and reshaped the landscape of rock music. In fact, he once famously declared, “To hell with the rules.” His innovative style, characterized by lightning-fast finger-tapping, catapulted him to instant stardom.

Van Halen’s explosive solos epitomized heavy metal in the 80s. His iconic solo in “Eruption” was the perfect showcase for his virtuosity, becoming a defining sound of the era. I’ll never forget one of the sound engineers I worked with telling me that so impactful was Eddie’s presence that owning a Van Halen cassette became a badge of honor for any self-respecting teenager at the time.

Michael Jackson, the world’s biggest pop star at the time, recognized his exceptional talent and invited him to contribute his guitar skills to the iconic track “Beat It.” 

His fearless approach and technical brilliance solidify his position as one of the most revered guitarists in history.

Strengths 

• Revolutionary Playing: Eddie introduced new techniques, such as intricate finger-tapping, that revolutionized guitar playing.
• Instantly Recognizable Tone: Van Halen’s high-gain tone is one of the most iconic out there.
• Showmanship: Eddie was one of the most energetic performers of his time

Weaknesses 

• Limited Stylistic Range: Eddie Van Halen focused primarily on rock and metal, rarely stepping outside the lines.

7. Jeff Beck

Guitar of Choice: Though he played many guitars, he preferred his 1960s Stratocasters

Jeff Beck’s ultra-expressive style of playing alone rightfully earns him a place among the greatest guitarists of his generation. 

With a remarkable talent for bending genres and being somewhat of a stylistic chameleon, Beck’s talent is undeniable. During his 1960s tenure with The Yardbirds, he delved into the realm of psychedelic rock, pioneering a distinctive, fuzz-laden sound with his innovative use of the Tone Bender MK I pedal.

Upon forming the Jeff Beck Group, he returned to his blues roots, showcasing an edgier, more organic guitar style. When you listen to tracks like “I Ain’t Superstitious,” you can hear his signature blues touch. 

He was also known to explore more exotic styles, such as his Latin-inspired soloing in songs like “Beck’s Bolero.” Though he may have been overshadowed by contemporaries like Hendrix and Clapton, he deserves recognition for his adventurous approach to playing.

Strengths 

• Experimental Approach: Jeff Beck was often known to push the boundaries of what was possible with the guitar
• Expressive Style: Beck’s use of vibrato paired with his beautifully-crafted solos make him unmatched in terms of soulful playing.
• Control: He also had extraordinary control over hs playing, from his tone to his dynamics

Weaknesses 

• Limited Commercial Success: Though he was an excellent guitarists, he never achieved the same level of commercial success as the other greats on this list.

8. Slash

Guitar of Choice: Gibson Les Paul Standard

In the midst of the extravagant and grandiose 80s hard rock scene, Slash emerged as a breath of fresh air, revitalizing the spirit of classic rock ‘n’ roll with a distinct love for the blues.

While he is renowned for his show-stealing solos, such as that unforgettable performance on “November Rain,” Slash played a pivotal role in taking Guns N’ Roses from a mere Sunset Strip sensation to a powerhouse of stadium rock.

Beyond his unmatchable style, he is the creative force behind some of the most iconic guitar riffs in rock history. Walk into just about any major guitar shop, and you’ll hear someone riffing away on “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” And the solo in “Paradise City”? Unreal!

His contributions to rock and roll are endless, and with raw passion and technical brilliance, he solidified his status as a true guitar god.

Strengths 

• Iconic Tone: Slash’s heavy overdrive and soaring solo tones are instantly recognizable
• Memorable Riffs: Slash has written some of the most memorable riffs and solos of all time
• Stage Presence: Slash is still one of the most captivating live performers on Earth, much of which is thanks to his signature look.

Weaknesses 

• Lacks Technical Complexity: Slash’s playing style is more about delivering a show rather than showcasing technicality

9. Wes Montgomery

Guitar of Choice: Gibson L-5 CES

Though his career was tragically short, this esteemed jazz guitarist gained well-deserved acclaim for his mastery of the octave playing technique.

By playing phrases on two strings, precisely an octave apart, he achieved a distinctive tone that jazz musicians would go on to copy for decades after. When I was just getting into jazz playing, I remember trying to match his aggressive thumb strokes, those of which inspired the likes of Jeff Beck and other fingerstyle players. It was a true hallmark of his style. 

However, his octave technique wasn’t what truly set him apart. For me, it was his remarkable sense of swing and imaginative melodic playing. Listen to his late 1960s releases on Verve and you’ll hear exactly what I’m talking about. 

Wes Montgomery’s contributions to jazz guitar continue to resonate today, and without him, it’s hard to say if and when the guitar would have made it so far in the genre.

Strengths 

• Influential Playing Style: Wes was a groundbreaking jazz guitarist, using his thumb to craft a distinguishable tone.
• Improvisation Skills: His melodic improvisation skills were out of this world
• Incredible Dynamic Control: Wes had otherworldly control over his touch

Weaknesses 

• Limited Use of Effects: His natural, straightforward tone became fairly predictable after a while

10. Chuck Berry

Guitar of Choice: Cherry Red Gibson ES-355TD

Rock ‘n’ roll was born from the blues, and the electrifying guitar intro on Chuck Berry’s track “Maybelline” marked the pivotal moment of its inception. 

His guitar prowess was evident in his mastery of short yet impactful solos. He had the ability to deliver memorable musical phrases, even if they were only a second long. 

While you can find more drawn-out solos on 1960s albums like “Concerto in B Goode,” it was his unique essence and style that influenced countless rock guitarists. 

In fact, no worthy rock guitarist can escape the impact of Chuck Berry’s artistry, and his contributions to the genre continue to resonate and shape the sound of rock music to this day.

Strengths 

• Pioneer of Rock n Roll: Many say Chuck Berry is the “founder” of rock n’ roll
• Rhythmic Playing Style: Berry’s infectious playing style made heavy use of percussiveness, giving his music a danceable vibe
• Incredible Showmanship: Berry was also know for his impactful showmanship, especially his signature “duck walk.”

Weaknesses 

• Limited Exploration: Chuck Berry had a sound and he stuck to it, rarely experimenting with different sounds or techniques

Runner-Ups That Just Missed The List

Mark Knopfler

Guitar of Choice: Vintage and Modern Fender Stratocasters

Mark Knopfler traversed the smoky pubs of the underground UK rock scene all the way to the Wembley Stadium’s main stage during Live Aid. To me, he’s more of a guitarist’s guitarist, which is why I didn’t put him on the main list. 

His style, characterized by mellow, chugging rhythms and evocative riff repertoire, played a pivotal role in catapulting Dire Straits to stardom. “Sultans of Swing” was the perfect piece to showcase Knopfler’s mastery, and it was one of the reasons they went on to become one of the best-selling acts of the 1980s.

With his sweeping soft-rock sound, tip-toeing the line between easy listening, folk, and blues, his ability to blend numerous influences is what makes him one of my all-time favorites.

Carlos Santana

Guitar of Choice: PRS Santana Model

Carlos Santana is one of the most exceptional guitarists of the past half-century. From his groundbreaking Woodstock performance to his unmatched streak of success throughout the 1970s, his musical journey has been a wild one.

He put Latin rock on the mainstream Western map, fusing numerous styles and crafting a distinct and recognizable sound that is unmistakably his own. 

Even after releasing an impressive 26 studio albums, he still takes a fresh musical approach with each album. Even his most recent album, “Blessings and Miracles,” showcases his ongoing commitment to pushing boundaries.

Tony Iommi

Guitar of Choice: Gibson SG

While I wouldn’t put Tony Iommi at the top of any “best guitarist” list, his anti-shred approach was one of the things that put Black Sabbath on the map. As a young metalhead, I couldn’t get enough of Sabbath, and for that, I wanted to give him some love.

Iommi’s expertise lies in crafting iconic, bone-crunching riffs. While any young kid with a guitar may be able to play the recognizable riffs on tracks like “Sweet Leaf” and “Paranoid,” it takes a special kind of person to come up with them in the first place. 

Robert Johnson

Guitar of Choice: Gibson L-1

Even with a short career, Robert Johnson epitomized the essence that a generation of blues-rock musicians sought to capture. 

His repertoire of Delta blues tracks showcases it all, from the raw and aggressive slide playing in “Crossroads Blues” to the infectious swing in “Sweet Home Chicago.” 

While legends of a Faustian pact may surround his life, it is undeniable that he had one of the most influential contributions to the blues.

B.B. King

Guitar of Choice: Gibson ES-335 named “Lucille”

Though Robert Johnson dominated the early blues sound, it was B.B. King that carried the torch. He formed a remarkable vocal duo with his cherished Gibson ES-355 guitar, Lucille. 

Lucille’s soulful sound had the power to convey emotions that B.B. King noted words alone could not fully express. With his elegant and heartfelt playing, his guitar became an extension of his musical voice.

His unique vibrato alone could put him on this list.

Steve Vai

Guitar of Choice: Ibanez JEM Series

Though I’m not a huge fan of his music, Steve Vai is undeniably one of the most technically exceptional guitarists of all time, adeptly balancing between hard rock and serious composition. 

Before he went solo, he was the “stunt guitarist” in Frank Zappa’s band and eventually played in acts like David Lee Roth and Whitesnake. It was then that he showcased his shredding mastery. I highly recommend checking out “Weeping China Doll” if you want to hear his more artistic side.

Nile Rodgers

Guitar of Choice: Fender Stratocaster

Straight out of high school, I toured in a funk band, and I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the huge impact Nile Rodgers, the guitarist of Chic, had on me.

He defied gravity in the disco era, showcasing a sophisticated style of funk with a choppy, stripped-down approach. 

His visionary influence extended to new wave pop acts like Madonna and Duran Duran, and when David Bowie enlisted him to produce his groundbreaking album “Let’s Dance,” he seemingly predicted the future of pop music, playing with clean tones and precise electro rhythms. 

As one of the most sampled guitarists in hip-hop, his style influenced a generation far beyond his own.

Duane Allman

Guitar of Choice: Gibson Les Paul

Although Duane Allman’s catalog of music was relatively limited, his impact on slide-guitar artistry is immortal. His guest appearance on “Layla” by Derek And The Dominos is absolutely timeless.

Many say his secret weapon was his soulful touch, which he had meticulously developed during his years as an Atlantic Records session musician. When he had his tenure with his brother Greg in The Allman Brothers Band, he brought that secret weapon with him.

Though his life was cut short in 1971, his legacy has inspired and influenced several generations of slide players and country rock guitarists.

FAQ

Conclusion

Well, there you have it — my top list of ten exceptional guitarists and a few runner-ups. 

If you’ve recently embarked on your guitar journey, I encourage you to explore their music and watch live performances on YouTube to get a firsthand look at their skillful playing.

Who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll be on this same list!

If you have any questions or thoughts, just leave a comment down below. Keep rocking!