I'm old enough to remember the death of Buddy Holly. Yup, that's old so I've seen the passing of many rock and roll heroes.
Instinctively, I'd say John Lennon because The Beatles are far and away my favorite band. Now I like Lennon's solo work and McCartney's solo work as well but it's evident that their relationship had evolved to the point that "The Beatles" would never be again. I believe eventually we would have seen them perform together again but the 6 years we celebrate as The Beatles was simply a space in time.
So, my vote goes to Jimi Hendrix whom I consider the most innovative rock guitarist. It would have been fascinating to hear the body of work accumulated over the past 40 years.
Or not.
IMO
YMMV
Instinctively, I'd say John Lennon because The Beatles are far and away my favorite band. Now I like Lennon's solo work and McCartney's solo work as well but it's evident that their relationship had evolved to the point that "The Beatles" would never be again. I believe eventually we would have seen them perform together again but the 6 years we celebrate as The Beatles was simply a space in time.
So, my vote goes to Jimi Hendrix whom I consider the most innovative rock guitarist. It would have been fascinating to hear the body of work accumulated over the past 40 years.
Or not.
IMO
YMMV