When learning another language, experts recommend that you immerse yourself in the language. The same principle applies when learninghow to play guitar. Listening to great guitar players can be a source of inspiration, can encourage you to keep practicing, and give you a goal to work toward.
As I am no expert so this doesn’t mean that this is a definitive list of the greatest guitar players, and some would disagree with the names on the list, it is an excellent starting point. But By listening to these accomplished players, those who are learning to play guitar can find their inspiration.
Jimi Hendrix
Many of his fans claim he was the greatest guitarist ever to pick up the instrument. It was his innovation, and his ability to play his guitar in any position with any body part, that consistently places him as one of the top rated guitarists ever.
Eric Clapton
Clapton can not only brag that he’s considered one of the greatest rock guitarists and one of the greatest blues guitarists, but also that he has drawn huge crowds for his classical guitar concerts. His playing style is smooth, yet precise, and chords almost seem to flow from his fingertips.
Robert Johnson
Robert Johnson set the pace for future generations of blues players. Johnson is also the guitar player often accused of having made the deal at the crossroads, selling his soul to the devil in order to be able to play.
Eddie Van Halen
The lightning speed and innovative sounds of Eddie Van Halen’s guitar are easily recognizable. He was completely self-taught, having never had any type of lesson. It has often been said, that it is easy for Eddie to be creative in his playing techniques because he was never told how he could or could not play.
Stevie Ray Vaughan
Easily one of the most well known modern blues guitarists, Vaughan’s music seemed to be pulled from the depths of his soul at times. While his playing was smooth, it was the sheer amount of emotion in every note that drew people to his music.
Tony Iommi
For many people, Iommi is considered the first real metal guitar player, using a lot of distortion but keeping it completely controlled. His fiery style is even more impressive because his fingering hand is missing the tips of two fingers, requiring him to use rubber prosthetics when playing.
Jeff Beck
Many guitar players consider Jeff Beck to be one of the most well rounded guitarists in the world, able to produce incredible tones with what appears to be very little effort. Despite his ability to create amazing sounds with a great depth of feeling, he is rarely given the credit he deserves.
Jimmy Page
Formerly one of the hottest studio players in England, Page not only has the ability to write incredible guitar riffs, but he also has the ability to play them perfectly.
Randy Rhoads
American heavy metal guitarist who is best known for playing with Ozzy Osbourne. Rhoads was perfect and precise in every note, but did so with a great depth of feeling.
Joe Satriani
Satriani may well be the next stage in the evolution of guitarists. He has the ability to play music when he is goofing off that manyguitar players will never be able match, even after years of practice.
