The title of “best guitarist ever” is subjective and can vary depending on individual preferences, musical taste, and criteria for defining “best.” That being said, several guitarists are often mentioned as contenders for this title due to their groundbreaking techniques, influence, and contributions to music. Here are some of the top guitarists often regarded as the best:
1. Jimi Hendrix
- Why He’s Considered the Best: Jimi Hendrix is widely regarded as one of the most influential guitarists in rock history. His innovative use of feedback, distortion, and wah-wah pedals, combined with his virtuosic playing, revolutionized the way the guitar was played. Songs like Purple Haze and Voodoo Child remain iconic examples of his unparalleled skill and creativity.
- Legacy: Hendrix’s ability to blend blues, rock, and psychedelia with unparalleled technical prowess and improvisation sets him apart.
2. Eric Clapton
- Why He’s Considered the Best: Known as “Slowhand,” Eric Clapton is one of the most skilled and versatile guitarists, influencing a wide range of genres including blues, rock, and pop. His work with bands like Cream and his successful solo career have earned him worldwide acclaim. Clapton’s emotive playing and tone, especially in songs like Layla and Tears in Heaven, have earned him the title of “guitar god.”
- Legacy: Clapton is credited with bridging the gap between traditional blues and rock, bringing blues into the mainstream while maintaining its emotional core.
3. Jimmy Page
- Why He’s Considered the Best: As the guitarist for Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Page created some of the most iconic riffs and solos in rock music. His innovative use of guitar tuning, fingerpicking, and amplification techniques created a distinct sound that influenced generations of musicians. Songs like Stairway to Heaven, Whole Lotta Love, and Immigrant Song showcase his mastery and versatility.
- Legacy: Page’s ability to blend hard rock, folk, and classical influences, along with his epic live performances, made Led Zeppelin a defining band of the 1970s.
4. Eddie Van Halen
- Why He’s Considered the Best: Eddie Van Halen revolutionized rock guitar with his groundbreaking technique and use of two-handed tapping, creating a new, virtuosic style of playing. His work with the band Van Halen, particularly in songs like Eruption and Jump, set new standards for guitar solos and technical skill.
- Legacy: Van Halen’s influence can be heard in nearly every guitarist who came after him, with many adopting or adapting his unique techniques.
5. Stevie Ray Vaughan
- Why He’s Considered the Best: Stevie Ray Vaughan brought blues back into the mainstream with his passionate, fiery playing. Influenced by blues legends like Albert King and Jimi Hendrix, Vaughan’s ability to combine Texas blues with a rock edge made him a standout guitarist. Songs like Pride and Joy and Texas Flood exemplify his powerful tone and expressive playing.
- Legacy: Vaughan’s soulful playing and mastery of both technique and emotion have made him a revered figure in the world of blues and rock.
6. B.B. King
- Why He’s Considered the Best: B.B. King’s smooth, expressive style made him one of the most influential figures in the history of blues guitar. His use of the “Lucille” guitar and his bent, crying notes became his signature sound. Songs like The Thrill is Gone showcase his ability to convey deep emotion through his instrument.
- Legacy: As a bridge between the origins of blues and modern rock, King’s influence extends beyond the blues genre, impacting countless musicians in many styles.
7. Chuck Berry
- Why He’s Considered the Best: Chuck Berry is often called the father of rock guitar, thanks to his pioneering riffs and innovative techniques. His distinctive use of double stops, bends, and the iconic duck walk became staples of rock and roll. Hits like Johnny B. Goode and Roll Over Beethoven laid the foundation for rock music.
- Legacy: Berry’s work not only defined the sound of early rock and roll but also shaped the way guitarists approach rhythm and solo playing.
8. Carlos Santana
- Why He’s Considered the Best: Carlos Santana’s ability to fuse Latin rhythms with rock, blues, and jazz influences set him apart as one of the most unique and expressive guitarists. His smooth, fluid playing and emotional vibrato have made him a standout artist. Black Magic Woman and Oye Como Va are iconic examples of his sound.
- Legacy: Santana’s blend of musical genres and his spiritual approach to music have earned him a permanent place in the pantheon of great guitarists.
9. Keith Richards
- Why He’s Considered the Best: Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones is known for his raw, gritty style of rhythm guitar and iconic riffs. His minimalist approach and “sloppy” precision have given The Stones their distinctive sound. Songs like (I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction and Start Me Up showcase his ability to create unforgettable, instantly recognizable riffs.
- Legacy: Richards has influenced countless rock and roll guitarists with his relentless rhythm playing and enduring impact on rock history.
10. Mark Knopfler
- Why He’s Considered the Best: Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits is known for his fingerstyle technique and ability to blend rock, blues, and country influences with lyrical, melodic solos. His distinctive sound, particularly in songs like Sultans of Swing and Brothers in Arms, combines intricate fingerpicking with evocative storytelling.
- Legacy: Knopfler’s smooth, intricate fingerpicking technique and unique tone have made him a beloved figure in rock and guitar communities.
Conclusion
While it’s impossible to definitively say who the “best” guitarist is due to the subjectivity of musical taste, these guitarists represent a variety of styles, techniques, and contributions to music. Each of them has had a profound impact on the world of guitar playing, influencing countless musicians across genres. Whether you prefer the bluesy bends of B.B. King, the intricate solos of Eddie Van Halen, or the emotional vibrato of Jimi Hendrix, there’s no shortage of legendary guitarists to admire and emulate.