Your favorite living guitarist is_______. Why?

[jazzandmetal?]

Scott Henderson I think overall versatility/songwriting/tone/taste is the best guitar player walking the planet. He has tone to die for. Seems to be able to play ANYTHING. Has killer phrasing. He is simply amazing.

I was listening to Dog Party off of the Live! cd and he just plays some great stuff on that song.

[buchla300]

Iommi, Gilmour or Holdsworth

Iommi, why? I doubt I need to say why! Awesome sound. No one sounds like him. Still doing it. Created a Genre.
Gilmour? Tone, melody and feel
Holdsworth. Blew my mind apart when I first heard him. Uniqe talent.

[Chiba]

Who: Brian May

Why: Queen, Queen II, Sheer Heart Attack, A Night at the Opera, A Day at the Races, News of the World, Jazz, The Game, The Works, A Kind of Magic, The Miracle, Innuendo, Back to the Light

--chiba

[DiazDude]

Derek Trucks

He's a student who never quits learning and a super nice guy. Oh..his skill is jaw dropping.

[cvansickle]

Warren Haynes. He has amazing tone and chops, for one thing. Also, he is completely unpretentious. He'll play with anybody on any stage, and never shies away from an experiment.

And another big plus for us aging rockers with the waistline spread happening - Warren looks like we do!

[Strat335]

Eric Johnson.

"Why" is subjective. He opened the door for me to hear things differently and he's an honorable decent human in a relentless life long pursuit of excellence.

[scottl]

Scott Henderson I think overall versatility/songwriting/tone/taste is the best guitar player walking the planet. He has tone to die for. Seems to be able to play ANYTHING. Has killer phrasing. He is simply amazing.


:agree

[supergenius365]

What everybody else said. :agree

Plus the Edge. And Mark Knopfler. And Christopher Parkening.

[trwigg]

What? No votes for Esteban?

[JohnK24]

Tab Benoit - he has the soul, the tone, the energy, killer songs and is keeping the blues fresh for me with each release.

Had you asked 5 months ago...it would have been Mr. Sean Costello...oh man, he WAS tops, imho...

[rmconner80]

Mike Campbell. His guitar lines fit into the song so well that you wanna sing them. Listen to breakdown and tell me that's not true. Also, amazing tones.

+1 on Mike Campbell. These are tunes where I don't just want to play the lead, I want to sustain out those big chords with Tom Petty just as much.

[fenderball]

steve morse...been following him since 1974...
just amazing...and live...same...

[Bulldog]

Tough call, it's between:

Mike Campbell, Mark Knopfler, Michael Ward, Doug Pettibone, Jay Bennett

But picking one would be way too difficult.

So I Won't.

[sethr]

Charlie Baty.

No wait...Junior Watson.

No...Charlie.

I can't decide.

Why? They're both the best alive. Tone, chops, and maybe most importantly-HUMOR.

[buchla300]

Another one I have to add
Marc Ribot...

[RGB]

For current players, Derek Trucks is the most astounding to me, but my all-time favorite for style, tone and phrasing has always been Blackmore.

[Franklin]

Jimmy Herring or Derek Trucks depending on the day.....

[bobbymack]

If I had to pick one it would be Mark Knopfler. Supremely tasty, and one of the few whose tone and style is so unique that you can tell it's him from just a couple of notes...

[rich2k4]

john mayer

he inspires me everyday. not just his playing, but even the way he came from playing small coffee shops to where he is now.

i can relate to almost any of his tunes, and it seems like he was just like me when younger.

[DejavuDave]

Scott Henderson I think overall versatility/songwriting/tone/taste is the best guitar player walking the planet. He has tone to die for. Seems to be able to play ANYTHING. Has killer phrasing. He is simply amazing.

I was listening to Dog Party off of the Live! cd and he just plays some great stuff on that song.

Yep. :agree

[rollyfoster]

jeff beck. has been breaking new ground for 40+ years and doesn't give a flying shit what anyone thinks. artistic integrity.

[zep41]

Jimmy Page

I dont know why, though

:)

[bigkahuna2u]

Eric Johnson, Joe Satriani, Scott Henderson

Very talented, nice, down to earth guys that enjoy helping others.

[tdarian]

Every guitarist mentioned thus far is amazing in my book. There is one however who's music just connects directly to my nervous system in a very pleasing, healing, and postive way, and that guitarist is Steve Kimock.

Interestingly, my two Amazon Parrots seem to react favorably to Kimock as well, although one of the Parrots is a shredder at heart and has learned to imitate some great wailing blues licks. Really interesting how the birds react like they really "get it" or something.

[derekd]

Man, that is a tough question! I am torn between Pat Martino and Jim Hall, but I will have to go with Jim. Not blessed with blazing chops, Jim's harmonic sensability is deeper than just about anyone I hear, and his rhythmic playing is always cool, refreshing and often surprising.

He just makes anyone he plays with sound better. Always melodic and tasteful.

[madscientist]

john mayer

he inspires me everyday. not just his playing, but even the way he came from playing small coffee shops to where he is now.

i can relate to almost any of his tunes, and it seems like he was just like me when younger.


+1


Mayer's playing just does it for me. I listen to a ton of guitarists, but when I want to be inspired, it's Mayer. Love his use of chords, the hooks, the tone, and the lyrics. Great melodies that just stick in my head.

[Lance]

Another Kimock freak here. Taste, tone, soul, knowledge, execution, passion, humor, adventurous, spontaneous, great ears, and very generous with his knowledge/experience to us. I definitely agree with the Scott Henderson thing too, though, and for a lot of the same reasons that I like Steve's playing. I was listening to Thick just a few minutes ago, and he just goes to town, and takes you along for the ride!

[Sub City]

Jimmy Bruno; amazing technique, phrasing, sense of time, and complete command of his instrument!

[teleman1]

Jeff Beck

[rwe333]

Way too many to name, but those w/ long careers still pushing the boundaries come to mind... So, cats like John Abercrombie, David Torn, Allan Holdsworth, etc...

[Pa'ani]

+1 for Scott Henderson he's such an amazing player and a very cool guy!

[Swain]

Jeff Beck.

I love most of the others mentioned. But JB is THE MAN!

Wow, always 5 or more years ahead of everybody else. Not just electric players, either. I mean, I think he's ahead of every other guitarist. Lots os reasons. But, I'll just cite this one.

[Jade]

Ace Frehley...

If it werent for Ace, I probably wouldnt have started playing guitar as a kid.

[mwc2112]

Hard to decide between two: Joe Bonamassa and Brian Setzer - two guys who can flat out lay it down on both the guitar and vocals but seem like really good, down to earth people.

[Ed DeGenaro]

Ray Gomez...because he wrote the book!

[LowWatt]

Adam Franklin from Swervedriver. He ocnstantly surprises me with new ideas, tones, and ways to approach playing the guitar and it all adds so much more to the song than if he just played his parts in a more traditional way.

Plus he's the only guy to ever write an amazing song around the Boss Super Distortion and Feedbacker pedal.

[Mackerusa]

Jimmy Page and Angus Young

Seems like I can't pick up an electric guitar without ripping at least a little something off from their arsenal.

[shredtrash]

Audley Freed

His tone is amazing. His songwriting kills. His pure skill and phrasing is clean but it has a fire and edge to it as well. He's a riff monster. He's tops for me.

[bjjp2]

What albums would people recommend for someone getting into Scott Henderson?

Just to stay on-topic, my answer might change tomorrow but I think I would say Neil Young. Why? Because I enjoy listening to him play.

[dverna]

Unreal, even when the original poster specifies choosing ONE... people can't do it.

Nick McCabe. Covers an incredible amount of sonic territory. Can orchestrate layers of ambience or make the hairs on the back of your neck raise with powerful "rock" riffs. Even more amazing live.

[doublee]

J Robbie Roberston back in the old days with The Band.

[codyj84]

Steve Pryor.

Hes a badass and is such a well rounded player. Super great guy. I can always count that when I see or hear him, I WILL be inspired.

c

[masque]

david gilmour

because his playing takes me places emotionally that few players have ever been able to do.

[Terry McInturff]

Jeff Beck. Loads of inventions over the past 40 years that changed rock guitar forever...and in addition he continues to grow, invent, and develop. Total integrity, and we all know that all of the other greats hold him in the highest possible esteem.

[stratman34]

That's a rough question for me. I have many favorites...

If I had to pick one, I would have to say Joe Bonamassa.

Followed closely by Phil Keaggy, Joe Satriani, and John Mayer.

[JamminJeff]

Derek Trucks

He's a student who never quits learning and a super nice guy. Oh..his skill is jaw dropping.

Go see Derek live regardless of who he is with. He will blow your mind. Not in a "look at me wank" but in a "listen to me speak" thru the instrument.

His ability to get out of his own way and let his musical voice speak is a very rare sight to see and hear these days.

[Spudman]

Roine Stolt - The Flower Kings

Because he is prolifically creative, plays with the best musicians, is tasteful, a nice guy, has the best progressive band today.

[Swain]

What albums would people recommend for someone getting into Scott Henderson?

Just to stay on-topic, my answer might change tomorrow but I think I would say Neil Young. Why? Because I enjoy listening to him play.


I REALLY prefer SH since he went into his "Blues-Rock" stuff. So, I'd recommend "Live", "Dog Party", and "Tore Down House".

He was incredible (as a player) with Zawinul Syndacate, and Tribal Tech. But, that stuff always left me cold. I'm sure there will be wildly differing opinions on this.

[Scottone]

Neil Young, with David Gilmour as a close runner up.

[Bryan T]

I'm the one who gets the most out of the musical journey that I'm on, so I'll go with me, myself, and I.

[CJReaper]

Chris Poland (OHM/Megadeth)

A: KILLER songwriter
B: Unique tone
C: Amazing technique with tons of feeling, does it all with a damaged left index finger.

Cheers,

CJ

[robyogi]

I'm going to go with Wayne Krantz on this one. Today.

[roger e]

Tone, tone, tone, choice of notes and just the whole deal. From Rock Island Rocket up thru the Blue Line Stuff. I had a bootleg from Dante's years ago of Robben with Larry Carlton. Fantastic. Saw him live a few times. Really great comping behind a sax player on one tour.

[greatbigz]

Ryan Newell of Sister Hazel, virtually unknown but man can that guy play. His slide playing is fantastic and tastefull, his rhythm playing is tight and perfect and his leads SING!! Don't be afraid to check him out just cuz he's from a band you don't know much about....You will not be disappointed.

I tried to find a decent clip on youtube but there is so much chick screaming and horrible audio that it's useless...this is the closest I came...start at 6:40

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ABBGWtlj-Y

[paulydangerous]

If I can only pick one, Derek Trucks....If I can pick another, Scott Henderson..

[hank57]

I saw Ronnie Wood with Bo Diddley at the Fillmore in the 80s and Ronnie is just amazing. Killer on slide.

I really dig Jack White too.

These are not the most technical choices but they channel something that can't be taught in school.

[Cary Chilton]

MICK MARS!! ..........just kiddin...

EVH (early stuff), Joe Satriani, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page ( Zep years), Paul Gilbert(recent stuff KILLER), Angus Young, Stanely Jordon, Adrian Smith/Dave Murray duo!, John McLaughlin, BB King, Andy Timmons, Mark Knopfler, Jerry Cantell, Tony Iommi (early stuff), YJM, Joe Pass, Jake E Lee... I think that is it

[jazzandmetal?]

I REALLY prefer SH since he went into his "Blues-Rock" stuff. So, I'd recommend "Live", "Dog Party", and "Tore Down House".

He was incredible (as a player) with Zawinul Syndacate, and Tribal Tech. But, that stuff always left me cold. I'm sure there will be wildly differing opinions on this.

I sent a pm, but will add to your list the Vital Tech Tones cds.

[parker]

Jim Hall....... well because he's Jim Hall!

[Noah]

Scotty Anderson. I can pretty much keep up and at least understand what all my other favorite guitar players are doing, but I can't even comprehend Scotty Anderson's playing !

[Jan]

Some part of Chet Atkins and George Harrison are alive to me as long as I can play their records.

Mark Knopfler, Jorma Kaukonen and Pat Donohue transcend time and genres, they are story tellers who take you with them. David Rawlings is getting there.

[hank57]

Thanks for the Jorma reminder...A living American cultural heritage.

[Alvis]

Mike Campbell. His guitar lines fit into the song so well that you wanna sing them. Listen to breakdown and tell me that's not true. Also, amazing tones.

Im with you

[Don P.]

Richard Thompson can play in any context, full band, solo acoustic, duo, and trio (1000 Years Of Popular Music.) Equally skilled on electric and acoustic. He is a great songwriter. And most of all he is a monster guitar player.

[Slowesthand]

Ty Tabor. He is as if Brian May and Jimi Hendrix possessed one person. There are very few guitarists who can play as if they are going completely out of control to the point of crashing... but they just never crash. They balance precariously on that knife edge. Ty Tabor is one of those few. He has remarkable technique and fluidity, but it never overshadows his soul.

I have to mention Angus/Malcom Young. They managed to distill rock right down to its very essence. David Gilmore for giving me chills with that haunting/singing guitar tone of his. Derek Trucks and Joe Bonamassa for taking blues, putting it in a blender with so many other styles, and having it come out so naturally. These two have really brought new life to an old genre.

[MartinC]

Matt Schofield. Remarkable tone ... Strat, Tele and 335. Remarkable feel. Virtuoso blues/jazz playing but always serves the song.

[Dr. Tweedbucket]

You guy are totally not going to get this, but if you really examine EVH's early DLR era rhythm playing, his timing was so incredible in the way he could fit little fills in between the chords..... it was so seemless and I was always impressed by that.

.... this is really a tough question ...... I love Richie Blackmore's playing too ........ :bong I ...... just :bong :bong ...... don't know :bong


ok, I'll just say EVH and it's not anything to do with all that annoying tapping :mad:

[djinn1973]

Robert Cray...
I guess its the combination of that unusual tone, and the way it really complements his vocals.

[Magnustveiten]

Scott Henderson I think overall versatility/songwriting/tone/taste is the best guitar player walking the planet. He has tone to die for. Seems to be able to play ANYTHING. Has killer phrasing. He is simply amazing.
:agree
The Live Cd has been spinning for weeks now..I'm also a big fan of the VTT albums and the Tribal Tech stuff.

I have done some transcribing (Snake Soda,Dolemite and Giant Steps) to learn more about Henderson's phrasing...Very helpful indeed!

[mouldynudger]

Richard Thompson can play in any context, full band, solo acoustic, duo, and trio (1000 Years Of Popular Music.) Equally skilled on electric and acoustic. He is a great songwriter. And most of all he is a monster guitar player.

Works for me!

Damian.

[Peeb]

Billy Gibbons.

The chops, the strange beard, the dark glasses, the kooky hat- what's not to love?

[Pietro]

bruce cockburn. whole package. Great songs, great lyrics, and he coaxes voicings and music out of his guitar like nobody else does.

And he just improves with age.

Love the Edge, too.

[Lucidology]

Frank Gambale for moi' ....
recently watched his "Acoustic" DVD and was literally floored by his musicality and skill..
Not to mention the compositions he's writing lately are wonderful ...

[DøøG]

I can't pick only one favorite, so here I go......

Allan Holdsworth
Ray Gomez
Wayne Krantz
Oz Noy
Jeff Beck
Leslie West
Scott Henderson....

and that list will all change by tomorrow, lol. Or half of it. John Abercrombie should be in there, I just recently revisited "Timeless", what a great record that is......

Scott H, I was at one of those shows for the "Live" record (La Va Lee?). Just great. I'm in that camp where I like him more now, I dig the bar stuff and the tone more than his playing in the Tribal Tech days. And that is just IMHO......

[zombywoof]

Too close to call.

Alvin Youngblood Hart - He sent me back to school. I love Alvin's blues stew. I finally got to see him live at the Natchez Bluff Blues Festival back when I lived in Mississippi.

Al "Bigger is Better" Anderson - not only did he play with the best flippin' rock band ever - NRBQ - but he makes music fun. Incredible blend of rock, blues, jazz and chicken pickin'. Must have seen Al twenty times with the Q. Could get ya table dancing from the first song.

[JohnnyGtar]

Jeff Beck. Why? Because he's Jeff Beck!
:bow:bow:bow:bow:bow:bow:bow:bow

[crzyfngers]

Jeff Beck. Why? Because he's Jeff Beck!
:bow:bow:bow:bow:bow:bow:bow:bow
hail to the chief.:agree

[eBay]

Kieth Richards... oh wait, you said living.

[slopeshoulder]

Bill Frisell

He is extraordinary sophisticated, but simple, schooled but honest, with huge ears and soul, and great taste and musicality.

[Powerslave214]

EVH (early stuff), Joe Satriani, Jeff Beck, Jimmy Page ( Zep years), Paul Gilbert(recent stuff KILLER), Angus Young, Stanely Jordon, Adrian Smith/Dave Murray duo!, John McLaughlin, BB King, Andy Timmons, Mark Knopfler, Jerry Cantell, Tony Iommi (early stuff), YJM, Joe Pass, Jake E Lee... I think that is it

That's a might tasty list!!!! I'd add Ty Tabor, John Petrucci, Adrian Legg, and Billy Gibbons.

If I had to pick just one, it'd have to be Joe Satriani. :bow

[geetarboy]

Jeff Beck. I just wish he made more music.

[greeny]

Brian May.

- Unique tone (that I love)
- Writes solos that are much more than a twiddle around the appropriate pentatonic.
- Fantastic Guitar arrangements
- Great Songwriter
- Has covered a large range of styles

[splatt]

Jeff Beck. I just wish he made more music.

i guess that fans of jeff beck
might be pleased to discover that
there's a new recording in progress.

dt / spltrcl

[telecopter]

Jan Akkerman- a very tasty and interesting player.

[CocoTone]

And another big plus for us aging rockers with the waistline spread happening - Warren looks like we do!


Speak for yourself!:confused:



Funny,,not one mention of Michael Landau. The guy is a monster, and deserves way more cudos than hes getting here.

CT.

[Ken Ho]

Usually whoever I am listening to at the time. So many players make me want to pick up the guitar.
Gilmour for chills
Satriani for shher enthusiasm
Bonamassa for yong energy
Hetfield for speed and delivery
Knopfler for the original addiction

[MBreinin]

Billy F. Gibbons. God of Tone and taste. Hilarious and eccentric. The kind of guy I think I would really enjoy hanging around with, having a few drinks and playing some guitar. I don't even think I would be uncomfortable or intimidated because Billy seems very genuine and laid back. Also, the guy never hits a bad note...he is amazing.

Mike

[1959burst]

gary moore/warren haynes

[snacker]

nels cline

[fazendeiro]

Ry Cooder.
Because I like listening to him.

[KRosser]

i guess that fans of jeff beck
might be pleased to discover that
there's a new recording in progress.

dt / spltrcl

Wow...you can hear a pin drop in here....

Well, dude, I'm still looking forward to hearing that once it's done, for sure....

[JMarck]

B.B. King. Soul.

[frankencat]

Me. Because I am myself. :)

[DrewKG]

Every guitarist mentioned thus far is amazing in my book. There is one however who's music just connects directly to my nervous system in a very pleasing, healing, and postive way, and that guitarist is Steve Kimock.



Agreed!

[Neill]

i guess that fans of jeff beck
might be pleased to discover that
there's a new recording in progress.

dt / spltrcl

you have a hand in this upcoming one dt?

[Rama]

I can't pick just one..Jeff Beck..Billy Gibbons..Ry Cooder

[Alister]

Knopfler has only been mentioned (in passing), twice that I can see. So I'll mention him a again.

[OldSchool]

Dickey Betts / Warren Haynes

Do I need to explain it? http://www.thegearpage.net/board/images/icons/icon12.gifhttp://www.thegearpage.net/board/images/icons/icon14.gif

[gkoelling]

Eric Clapton. He inspired me to start playing and I still enjoy listening to him today.

[ThePK]

- George Benson, I'm surprised nobody has mentioned him yet :)
Simply a fantastic musician. Probably my favourite singer as well.

[Jamnad]

John Scofield
He's like a chameleon.

[mojocaster.com]

Mark Knopfler.

Talent, touch, phrasing, tone, it's all there.

[frank62]

It is B B King and every other player mentioned here would agree.

[splatt]

you have a hand in this upcoming one dt?
yes, mind & hand (& pen) & such;
i feel very enthusiastic about it,
or wouldn't otherwise have mentioned it!
dt / spltrcl

[freedom's door]

Jeff Beck

Nobody can do more with one note, and make it mean as much to my ears.

[scottywompas]

It's a toss up but I'm gonna have to go with ...................................


Brian May

There is nobody that plays like him period. He is the reason I picked up a guitar.

Scott

[Guitar Slinger6]

At this point I can not say that I have a favorite guitarist. There are many that I appreciate for different reasons, but I could not choose one. I have to say there are some clips that have been posted here by our own members that I would rank up there. And i must say at this point I am enjoying the freedom of not being locked in, is that weird?

[aroman]

Michael Schenker. I love his tone and melodic solo compositions.

[fenderball]

steve morse...
since '74 seeing him at the rathskeller at the univ. of miami regularly, thru his performances at rod's and allen's senior recitals, through today...always awesome, always amazes, musically satisfies and puts a smile on my face when he plays

[lhallam]

Me, because if I was dead I wouldn't be able to listen to all these great players.

[alw]

It's too tough to chose between them. Peter Green and BB. And both for the soul.

[Prof KM]

Ty Tabor from King's X.

Great riffs, supreme songwriting, interesting chords, and he can shred when he wants to - but understands that you don't need to all the time.

Distinctive tone, too.

[fender tele]

Tough call.
Ace Frehley is the reason I wanted to play back in '79.
Ray Flacke was the first "Tele guy" that floored me.
Danny Gatton was the 1st guitar player that made me just shake my head & say "I'll never be able to do that". But, unfortunately, he's not with us.

so.....

Scotty Anderson & Brent Mason.
But lemme say that there are MANY that are so close it's almost like a 30-way tie.

[SEEGERMANY]

Michael Schenker. I love his tone and melodic solo compositions.

He's a freaking kook, but seldom does a day go by that I don't listen to something off Strangers In The Night. Listen to his solos on Rock Bottom, Lights Out, I'm A Loser, or This Kids. Yes, there are cats better, but Michael has been an inspiration for a long, long time. Here's a pic of my Schenker V built to the exact specifications of Michael's #2 guitar.

http://i212.photobucket.com/albums/cc129/seegermany/Marks%20Mess/44d2.jpg

[nnick]

My uncle. Not only does he have amazing chops but gave me my first guitar.

[?&!]

The Reverend Billy G. Tomorrow it might be Pete Townshend, or Brian May, or Peter Green, but today it is the Rev.

[todd richman]

Mick Taylor-TONE!!!

[Ed DeGenaro]

Ray Gomez.
Why because it's the perfect marriage of Bebop lines and pedal steel sounds on guitar.

[frank62]

BB King. No explaination necessary here.

[Ezyryder]

Marc Ford - His stuff with the Crowes is mega.
Scott Gorham - Love the solos and tone. Like Phil said -
"That boy was born to play guitar." And he looks cool..

[bowie3141]

jeff beck & http://images.craigslist.org/1f912a1343na3m63p78c41925133bddea15fd.jpg

[dets1]

i may have to go with scott henderson. i'm blown away that thru more than 8 pages nobody has mentioned tommy emmanuel.

[Marc Roy]

Warren Haynes for me.

He completely changed my playing and the way I looked at music. When I got my first Gov't Mule album, it opened my eyes. I went back to listening to the stuff I grew up with.

To me, he's a consumate musician. Tone, taste, plays for the song, and a good voice on top of it. Sounds like a nice guy as well. Every interview I've read/heard, he's very humble.

[Neer]

I'd probably have to say Bill Frisell, although John Scofield are Marty Grosz are right behind him.

[notpetrucci]

Jim Campilongo

Nobody has ever pleasured a top loader like he does.

-Jon

[edwarddavis]

Me of course , the reason , Duhhhh

[Neer]

Ray Gomez.
Why because it's the perfect marriage of Bebop lines and pedal steel sounds on guitar.
Yeah, Ray is right up there, too. He's the embodiment of a carefree spirit with a guitar.

[ZachariahG]

Cody Bonnette.
nobody on this planet is half as creative as that man.

[scottlaned]

Denny Dias at the moment.

[P90Nut]

Robin Trower
I love his feel & tone.
A close second would be Frank Marino, for the same reasons.


Mark

[PUCKBOY99]

Joe Perry

Not necessarily for his playing, but since I first heard Aerosmith as a kid in '70s & then saw the pics of Joe with that black & white LP, he just looked so friggin' rock star cool !!!!

ALSO another vote for BB King...'cause he's THE King !

Eric Clapton is up there...

[B_of_H]

either:

Jimmy Herring (amazing player and improvisational genius, stellar articulation and accuracy)
Marc Ford (classic blues/rock chops with great taste, never seems to do too much or too little somehow...just perfectly fits his playing into a song)
Charlie Hitchcock (great tones and taste, very dancable yet rocking and exploritory)
Steve Kimock (great tones and beautiful phrasing, maybe the purist single coil tone i've ever heard in my life)
Dan Lebowitz of ALO (uses a taylor acoustic and rocks the house like it's a 335)

relatively unknowns:

Jess Franklin of Tishamingo (bluesy/ southern rock slide - excellent singer as well)
Brian Brooks of Pink side of the floyd, California Voodoo (walking jukebox with great taste)

[KBR]

I like Doyle Bramhall II the best because of his Tones, and Soulful playing.
Anson Funderburgh, I like a lot
Monster Mike Welch is Great and Johnny Moeller is strong
Johnny Cat & Kid Anderson I enjoy these 2 Dudes a lot, also.

That's 6 Cats I dig.

The Bay Area has a lot of Good Players here!

[George Adelson]

Tommy Emmanuel
Jerry Donahue
Brent Mason
Scotty Anderson
Jeff Beck
EJ
Pat Martino
Steve Morse
Steve Howe
Steve Hackett
Carl Verheyen
Bireli Lagrene
Bruce Forman

[Balok]

Uli John Rith
why?
The 2 solos in "Longing for Fire".
1st one starts at 1:04
Rudolf Schenker defines the tone of good Marshall crunch in his rhythm backing track as well.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IjhBaM-Fd34

http://www.zumablog.com/images/120/Roth2.jpg

[erplander]

I couldn't choose only one. No way

Pat Metheny
Al Dimeola
Richard Thompson
Steve Morse
Steve Hackett
Jake Cinninger
Ed Wynne
Roine Stolt

And if we included deceased players I'd add Michael Hedges.

[telebuck]

Jeff Beck... saw him a couple of years ago at Crossroads.. best musical performance I have ever seen.

Gotta add though that I saw John Mayer that day and he tore it up as well... cant get enough of his song Belief.

[bug0711]

Who:
http://billkirchen.com/CrosstownArts/client_music/kirchen/

http://billkirchen.com/CrosstownArts/client_music/kirchen/assets/images/BillKirchenHiRez1a.jpg

Why:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31ka0AaxkXs&feature=related

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XncfWLCfcf4&feature=related

[SyKrash]

Pat Metheny

He constantly pushes boundaries, has just jaw-dropping ability and can play any style he wants yet critics and fans alike still call him a Jazz Guitarist. Which, is a pretty rare thing in jazz circles, f you play anything that might step outside the realm, then the knights of the jazz table immediately label you fusion or whatever else.

[Red Suede]

These days i'm not so much into pyrotechnics, so Carlton is my favorite because he seems to be always trying to leave behind a melodic statement more than playing a lot of licks or showing his chops for effect. I really enjoy melody players. Carlton has chops too, just shows them in the right moments that suit my tastes.

[iamdavea]

Greg Howe, because he's the only guy with superhuman chops who is also equally blessed with a knack for the killer melodic hook; because he had a run of five instrumental CDs (self-titled through the "Five" album) in a row that were each extraordinary; because his close-interval, string crossing tapping technique upstaged Eddie without even sounding like him.

[bbarnard]

Chris Cain

There's a number of others I'd list who are big favorites (Carlton, Clapton, Ford, BB, Kirk Fletcher) but I had the pleasure of getting a lesson from Chris in my house with each of us having a beer. He's one of the funniest, most talented players around and he didn't laugh at my playing, in fact he was fairly complimentary of it.

Close second would be Charlie Baty. I also had the chance to get a lesson from him but he intimidated me so much I could hardly play. We had dinner together and he's a very thoughtful insightful guy.

I also had the pleasure of talking to Sean Costello several times but alas he's left us now. Just an incredibly nice person. He let me play the 53 goldtop. That's pretty nice.

[winkofaneye]

Doyle Bramhall 2.Why? Tone,feel,style.And only because Hendrix is dead and I cant pick him.

check out www.myspace.com/edithfunker (http://www.myspace.com/edithfunker) for Doyle at his best(IMO)

[Willie Johnson]

It is a bit unfair to have to pick just one. But, if you're only giving me one it would have to be Clapton. If you asked me to pick five, he would be at the top of that list anyway. The reason: I've been listening to him play since the sixties and he has never ceased to amaze and continues to please. His sound, tone, whatever you want to call it is instantly recognizable (to me anyway.) He has come up with so many great licks over the past 40years, it makes me dizzy. 40 years is an awful long time to stay at the top of your trade. And, he continues to do so. I could go on and on but what's the point....the man's body of work speaks for itself.

[Frankee]

Who? Mick Taylor.
Why? Because he's Mick Effin Taylor.

[musicman10_1]

My favorite guitar player is Eddie Van Halen

Why? VH1 has given me a guitar lifetime of material to enjoy and learn.

[datguytim]

Page
Schenker
EVH

why? they're still breathing.

[claudel]

More than one for me, too

Mostly old English dudes.

Jeff Beck - for all the reasons stated already plus he gets to play with Tal...
David Gilmour
Pete Townshend

A few Americans too:
Mike Campbell
Hetfield/Hammett
Adam Jones

[shane88]

pete townshend .................no explanation needed :BEER

[Guitar Slinger6]

I am trying to broaden my musical vision by moving on to newer flavors than what I have been comfortable with in the past. The guitarist that I am diggin the most right now is Julian Kasper, I really dig his tone, playing and direction.

[theRocco]

John Mayer--Why? Because he's very young and will still grow and develop over the years--all the other usual suspects I think are not gonna change and grow any more.

[billdurham]

A name not many have heard.. Mike Slamer... Google him.. he smokes.

BD

[proreverb68]

Wayne Krantz.

He LOVES guitar. He's an innovator.

he's taken it off road and found a way to come back and play things the rest of us enjoy hearing.

[boogieman90]

Les Paul. He's still at it.
Buddy Whittington. Great and looking to improve.

[dancehall]

Johnny Marr!

I respect the guys with great lead playing chops, but Marr fits so well into my ideal: leave the fireworks out, write fantastic and catchy (but not vapid) pop songs with great and INTERESTING riffs. He's the reason that my pedalboard will never be without a chorus pedal.

[Beagle1]

Tommy Emmanuel...he is the total package of amazing chops/technique, total mastery of nearly any style of music on either acoustic or electric, great original compositions, and he is a great showman who can entertain hundreds of people with ONLY his acoustic guitar. Steve Vai has said that Tommy is "not the future of guitar playing, because even in the future I don't think people are going to be able to play like him."

[Two-Octave]

Guy Mann Dude.

Because his name is so stupid and he was around during the dreaded 1980's hair metal scene.----That's why he roolz!!! :rotflmao

[Old Tele man]

...of the "old guard," only Johnny "Moonlight in Vermont" Smith is still alive and well (in Colorado)...so, HE gets my vote.

...of course, Les Paul isn't to be forgotten,

[Tuberoast]

Jeff Beck..the guy is innovative, can run from shred to beautifully sensitve ballads, and is a number one among his peers. He is the best guitarist I've ever seen live.
I mixture of MOVED and corroded with envy.

[superechotwin]

Marc Ford - He seems to capture the spirit (or soul) of the song and embrace it while carrying it further than you thought it could go. His playing can be poignant and piercing as well.

[Donn Rowe]

Jeff Beck.

[lfio710]

Jim Hall. Bobby Broom is a close second.

[TieDyedDevil]

The Bay Area has a lot of Good Players here!

Yes, and that's where my nominee hails from. He's only been on the scene since 1990 or so and I just heard of him about four years ago, but he is at the top of my list of favorite players. James Thomas of The Mermen.

Of the well-established living players, I'd add John Abercrombie to the list.

Why? In both cases, they play music that speaks to me.

[Twangdaddy]

What? No votes for Esteban?

Well, of course (at least according to the infomercial) Esteban is THE MAN, but I also like Phil Keaggy and J.J. Cale. :banana

[orlandomike]

Rich Robinson because he, well just because....

[hawkeyeinexile]

Way too many to name, but those w/ long careers still pushing the boundaries come to mind... So, cats like John Abercrombie, David Torn, Allan Holdsworth, etc...

today it's a tough choice between Kelly Joe Phelps and Derek Trucks. Tomorrow (or even later today) it could just as well be Wayne Eagles or David Torn. Day after that...:dunno

in any case it'd be because of instrument mastery & sense of adventure/originality

:cool:

[clemduolian]

Electric= Bill Frisell

Acoustic=Tony Rice

Because= Both of them, every time, amaze and inspire me with their musicality, inventiveness, techniques and tones. And each is identifiable almost instantaneously...a sign of greatness in my book for any guitarist.

[waylay00]

Too many to decide on just one, to be honest!!!

I'm listening to Joe Bonamassa one day, Paul Gilbert the next, and then Jeff Beck, for example. They are all inspirational to me, and it's difficult for me to deem one my "favorite."

[RichieRich]

scotty anderson and john mayer

[Julia343]

Tom Morello -- very creative, decent human being, doesn't take himself seriously, sees beauty in simplicity, and just watching a DVD of concerts of RATM and Audioslave can give me goosebumps.

Gotta go with the Jett. Joan Jett. Still rockin and she's my age. Love her songs like "I Hate Myself For Lovin' You"

Alexi Laiho, Bjorn Gelotte, Jesper Stromblad

[bmoring]

Saw YES friday night in greensboro nc. I can't say he is the best, but Steve Howe is still really good.

[HHB]

LOL I just looked at this and was thinking Scott then saw he was the OPs pick too, I'm right there w/ ya

[clapointe1]

Robin Trower , playing better nowin his 60's than when he was in his 20's ! :RoCkIn

[Uniphasian]

David Grier

[arthur rotfeld]

Myself. I hate to think of the alternative.

[tholle1]

Derek Trucks. Why? Tone.

[toneranger58]

Sonny Landreth and Monty Montgomery, both are unique and tone to die for.

Chas

[scottregardie]

The mighty Scotty Anderson.

Why? Because the man knows no boundaries. Unsurpassed technical skill coupled with unsurpassed musicianship.

[909one]

Another one I have to add
Marc Ribot...

I am not going to wade through pages of this thread, but I gotta second this motion. I think Marc Ribot is one of the most creative guitar players still alive right now. He is my favorite guitar player.

Also other contenders, Jeff Parker (Tortoise).

[fyrwyr]

Probably Phil Keaggy, all around top notch songwriter,singer and guitarist, and an incredible touch!

[DOMINIC]

Probably Phil Keaggy, all around top notch songwriter,singer and guitarist, and an incredible touch!

he's amazing! love phil

he came to my church in sept. :D

but john mayer is my fav

he's my hero

[SwedishGuy82]

John Mayer.

Because he makes Clapton look like a beginner.

[Prodigy]

I'd have to say Jimmy Page. Not so much for the leads, but more for the riffs and songs as a whole, and the emotions that they conjure up whenever I listen to Zep. Songs like When The Levee Breaks, Whole Lotta Love, Babe I'm Gonna Leave You, and Black Mountain Side, just to name a few, really take me somewhere else...

[macheesmo3]

The Reverend Billy Gibbons!

He just has soo much ass in his playing. You can feel the Texas heat and the swagger. It's just nasty !!!

[Accio Recto]

Can't pick just one, so here's the top of my head:

David Gilmour: Tone, taste, feel, melody. He's always at the top of any of my "Favorite Guitarists" lists. Everyone else is negotiable, but Gilmour's always at the top.
Steve Vai: Can't convince myself he's really human.
Robin Trower: A major influence on me.
John Petrucci: God.
Buckethead: Satan.
SRV: When I think of Blues, I think of SRV.
Eric Johnson: Every note is a polished gem.
Ty Tabor: Everything that's great about the guitar, rolled into one.

Millions more...

[banjoze]

For sheer versatility and ability to make complexity look easy: Guthrie Govan..

For trademark sound, numerous: Billy Gibbons, Eddie, Jeff Beck, etc.

Amazing guy who doesn't get the credit he deserves: Andy Timmons

Famous guy I wish I could never hear (or especially "see") again: Vai

[akihiro]

Brian May. He's one of the guys who influenced me to play the guitar.
For me, he has some of the most memorable solos.

[JohnK24]

for a moody/mellow mindset it's Mark Knopfler and for the other times it's John Mayer

[daphil]

I am not going to wade through pages of this thread, but I gotta second this motion. I think Marc Ribot is one of the most creative guitar players still alive right now. He is my favorite guitar player.


Ribot here too. It's not just the playing but the intention, the whole process. Deep and raw. Very inspirational.

Catch "The lost string" if you can. When I'm in a rut, I just watch the DVD.

David Torn is a BIG inspiration too.

[Captain Midnite]

Shakey

[Dave Orban]

Charlie Baty.

[burner]

Steve Pryor.

Hes a badass and is such a well rounded player. Super great guy. I can always count that when I see or hear him, I WILL be inspired.

c
+1
I learn something from him every time he plugs in.

[Rotten]

Richard Thompson, David Lindley, Alex Lifeson, John Scofield. Leo Kottke will always be in a completely separate category.

[russiancrowe]

Shakey

If you mean Shakey Jake from Ann Arbor he is no longer alive.

[harvestmark]

Larry Carlton.

Alright Drew, who's Shakey?

Mark Miller

[Tomo]

B.B. King

Sounds sooo good!

Tomo

[schaljo]

Larry Carlton.

Alright Drew, who's Shakey?

Mark Miller

Surely you're not talking about this guy http://www.icbluesclub.org/html/shakey.html

I used to go see him all the time. Incredible!

[Sandro]

Pat Metheny

He constantly pushes boundaries, has just jaw-dropping ability and can play any style he wants yet critics and fans alike still call him a Jazz Guitarist. Which, is a pretty rare thing in jazz circles, f you play anything that might step outside the realm, then the knights of the jazz table immediately label you fusion or whatever else.

+1

Sandro

[dlguitar64]

John Scofield or Pat Metheny

[jzgtrguy]

Pat Martino, I don't know why, he just fascinates me. I keep coming back to him. I really love the CD "The Maker"

[Lespaulsignature 74]

Jeff Beck...do I really need to expalin ?????

[TwoTubMan]

Steve Cropper.

[LHakim]

Jeff Beck. A true giant of the guitar who is as fresh, daring, and innovative now as he was when he was a kid 44 years ago. Maybe even moreso. What other guitarist can lay claim to that???

[todd richman]

Mick Taylor. Defined the lead guitar sound during the Stones most prolific period. Beautiful, lyrical playing with gorgeous vibrato, perfect note selction and tone that is out of this world rich and magical. Just listen to any of his playing on the Live Import Brussels Affair from the Europe 1973 tour or the import DVD-Ladies and Gentlemen... And, when I met him in 2003, he was a really sweet, quiet yet funny guy with no airs about him whatsoever.

[Grassroots]

Favorite Emeritus: Jimmy Page, needs no explanation.

Currently: Tim Mahoney from 311 and Josh Homme from QOTSA (and Them Crooked Vultures)

[concerto25]

Eric Clapton

Because, he, with limited technique, has attained everything in the business: influence, respect, visibility, endurance, etc.

Plus - nobody sounds like him?

[Tripower455]

Pete Townshend.

Percussive acoustic playing, kick ass electric playing, esoteric chord voicing and just puts so much into it....

[waxnsteel]

Jimmy Page because he wrote Black Dog which I couldn't get enough of when I first heard it at around 5 years old (It was already old, just new to me).

[Noah]

There are so many guitarists I respect, but I guess if I can only choose one it would have to be Scotty Anderson.

[Bankston]

Hard to pick only one but . . . I'll say Doug Aldrich.

First and foremost, he's playing an LP most of the time. Chops galore, amazing tone, great stage presence, and a totally cool cat to his fans. He's one of those guys that could walk into any gig situation, regardless of the genre or artist, and tear it up.

Honorable mentions: Rafael Moreira, Joe Bonamassa, Andy Timmons

Old faves: Billy Gibbons, Lynch, Smith/Murray

[Blue Fin]

I'll give Carlos Santana a vote.

[mprvise]

The guy I play with on my main gig. The current band has been together for over four years now, and I've been listening to him play since 1987. He still never ceases to amaze me, whether it be blues, jazz, rock, or jam on guitar, or his incredible pedal steel playing. Some gigs might as well be lessons, and I actually get paid.

Of the better known players, Steve Kimock has been a favorite since I first heard him with the Merl Saunders Rainforest band in the early 1990's.

And I'd have to include Bill Frisell to round out a top three.

[sonvolt]

I'll have to say Keith Richards, he's the one who inspired me to play and write my own stuff !

[Adel2]

Today: Ben Monder. Tomorrow: maybe Angel Romero. Another day: Brian May.

[Steve_2020]

sure he's on here a few times

Jeff Beck is my fave guitarist, has been for decades.
-------------
if jeff weren't availabe to be my fave it would be down to Tommy Emmanuel, Robben Ford and Larry C. Larry's early and SD recorded stuff and anytime live. Anything, anytime anyway anywhere for the other two... As is the case with Jeff, who is my fave.

[anxiousmofo]

Seemingly paradoxically, either Mark Knopfler or Nels Cline. And I think Bob Weir is the best thing that ever happened to the rhythym guitar.

[KRosser]

I would have to pick a three-way toss-up between John Abercrombie, David Torn & David Lindley

Why are they my favorite living guitarists? Because if they weren't, they'd be my favorite dead guitarists.

And that would make me sad.

[mike walker]

How dya pick? Some days are rock outs, others' are soul struts, some are driving around Country bends, still others are navigating thru minefield mind fields, with grace.

And the blues, and Bream.

[mouldynudger]

Richard Thompson. Unique, creative, beautiful music.

Damian.

[Telebluze]

I know the OP said only one, but.........

Newer, more modern day, from my generation.......my avatar says it all.....DBII
Why: Because he's a freakin' MONSTER singer, player, and songwriter. I think he's the Hendrix of our time.

Old school, previous generation......no question about it for me.......The Reverend Billy G
Why: An incredible canon......40yrs worth of non-stop MONSTER songs, licks, and hooks.....phenomenal tone......not to mention, he's the coolest guy on the planet!!!!

Peace,
Ken

[greenlander]

Kevin Shields

Completely unique and original, in both his guitar tones and his melodic sensibility. Hasn't released an album in 18 years and is still as relevant and appreciated as ever. He's one of those rare musicians whose style transcends eras. And best of all...no tired blues-based solo wankery!

[dr.morton]

Myself!
Not that I am the best player or anything remarkable but I am the only player I cannot live without...

[edwarddavis]

Favorite living guitarist , thats easy !! Me

[VaughnC]

Jimmie Vaughan....he plays for the song without too many adjectives and leaves just enough room for the notes he plays to breathe.

John Fogerty...loved his hooky guitar riffs over the years.

Nokie Edwards...practically taught me how to play guitar via those old Ventures records.

[Robert1950]

Eric Clapton. He inspired me to start playing and I still enjoy listening to him today.

It took 100 posts before someone mentioned EC. Oh yeah, my choice,... Jeff Beck.

[Plague Dog]

Your favorite living guitarist is dead... RIP

[sandiprdesai]

eric clapton is alive correct?? i didnt see his name for a while and just noticed it above my post....derek and the dominoes baby.... john frusciante ranks up there in my mind....why????because they blow my mind with their fingers

[franksguitar]

There are so many great guitarists of various genres and is always subjective to personal taste

[TaronKeim]

David Torn - a patron of non-conformity - my numero uno by a long shot - his approach and body of work has influenced me to discover more about my playing and my artistic intent than any other player I've encountered. Truly a unique voice and a guiding light/helping hand in pushing people (or at least the idea) towards self-discovery and advising them not to give into the pre-conceived conventions that the electric guitar (and its players) can perpetuate.

_TJK*

[B_of_H]

Eric Krasno - plays music for the right reasons.

[troykennedy]

The Edge - for composition and originality, pretty amazing.

[PedalFreak]

Eric Clapton has always been in my top favorites. Hendrix, SRV & Clapton. But I don't know if I could really pick a absolute "favorite."

I've also got: BB King, Buddy Guy, Marc Ford, Warren Haynes, David Gilmour, Doyle Bramhall II, and many many more

[kmcmichael]

Johnny Winter

Why not?

[LLbean]

Ry Cooder for his understated brilliance. Among younger players, Britt Daniel (Spoon). Most guitar based indie rock leaves me cold, but his approach does it for me.

[jurgen]

Jeff Beck is the Django of Rock and Roll :bow

[Kojack19]

I don't listen to the Who as much anymore, and there are periods that I like more than others but Townshend is still the guitar god for me. I have followed Hendrix, Page, Satch, Richards, Clapton, Beck, Johnson etc you name it...But nothing has held my curiosity for so long as the White Jump Suit era of townshend. Isle of White, Live at Leeds is untouchable to me.

In the last five years, it has been the sum of Wilco and esp Nels Cline.

[Antelope]

Trey Anastasio -- great tone, great playing, he plays just about every known style and plays it well, and he never plays the same thing twice.

Carlos is pretty awesome, too.

As is Jeff Beck, though he's almost too good, if that makes sense.

[sandiprdesai]

Trey Anastasio -- great tone, great playing, he plays just about every known style and plays it well, and he never plays the same thing twice.

Carlos is pretty awesome, too.

As is Jeff Beck, though he's almost too good, if that makes sense.

i concur about trey

[Stratobuc]

Jeff Beck

He does what no one else can do.