Who is your overall favorite guitarist?


At 44 years of age, I personally feel fortunate to have lived in an era along with some of the finest guitarists who have ever lived. I have always had an overwhelming love of music. As I look back to my earlier years of music appreciation (I took formal piano training for 17 years) I remember how my instructor would suggest exposing myself to the many different styles and disciplines of music.

These were such valuable words of wisdom. Considering the fact that this suggestion, more or less, forced me to be more open to musicians other than those that played in strictly rock and roll bands.

Wow, was I surprised to find that I could be as entertained by Chet Atkins and Les Paul as I could be by Ritchie Blackmore or Carlos Santana. Just think about some of the finest from our time. Jimi Hendrix, John McLaughlin, Robin Trower, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Eric Johnson, Steve Howe, Al DiMeola, the list could seem almost endless. All such incredible musicians.

Although it's very hard to pick one person or style in particular, let's remember the key words, "overall favorite".
I would probably have to say that my overall favorite would have to be Steve Morse (from Dixie Dregs fame).

Who is your favorite?
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An old thread but very interesting guitarists mentioned. I thought will add one of my favourite player Hank Marvin of "The Shadows" the 1960's instrumental group from UK. Lots of guys in 60's wore thick framed Glasses and wielded Red Strats !!
He had a clean style of playing with echo drenched Strat tone that can be instantly recognised.
Lot's of great guitarists mentioned. Hendrix and Clapton are my favs, but I'd like to throw in Alvin Lee of Ten Year's After.
kk I know I responded before but I dont think anyone has mentioned Charo. One of the finest Flaminco Guitarists.
So many greats have been named already! I have never been able to choose "favorites", but I would like to see that two more names make it to this list: Harvey Mandel - I am lucky to have a vinyl recording of "Games Guitars Play"; and Gabor Szabo - I remember him from my Chico Hamilton jazz recordings.