Famous guitarists of the world. Great guitarists who have etched their names into history.
We’ll be introducing world-famous guitarists who have left their mark on the history of music, without limiting ourselves to any particular genre.
Let’s not only look at differences in genre, but also pay attention to different fields—such as guitarists in bands and those who shine as solo artists—and appreciate each player’s unique technique.
It’s also a great idea to start by focusing on individual players and then discover new genres from there.
Learning the names of great guitarists can become a doorway to deepening your knowledge of world music and history.
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Famous guitarists of the world. Great guitarists who left their mark on history. (21–30)
Freight TrainMichael Angelo
Michael Angelo, former guitarist of Nitro.
His jaw-dropping performances are unforgettable.
He seems to have a policy of astonishing listeners both visually and aurally, and with things like the X-shaped guitar and blazing fast playing with the strings fretted from above, he’s a guitarist who also fully embodies the prowess of an entertainer.
Cliffs of DoverEric Johnson
Eric Johnson is a top guitarist who enjoys overwhelming support from many professional guitarists.
The evenness of his note articulation and the beauty of his tone are simply outstanding—it’s pure bliss to listen to.
While his fast-playing technique is, of course, remarkable, he’s a guitarist who really conveys an obsession with great sound.
Pull Me UnderJohn Petrucci
John Petrucci, the guitarist of Dream Theater—the band that elevated the progressive hard genre to the next level—gives the impression of being a player who mainly uses full picking.
Although all the members are ultra-skilled in this super band, his fast playing shines especially brightly even among them.
Bright LightsGary Clark Jr.
Born in Austin, and only eight years old, he became immersed in blues rock inspired by a female friend, and later began playing the GT his father gave him as a present.
He was heavily influenced by masters like T-Bone Walker, Clayton, and Elmore James.
Scouted by Clifford Antone, he gained session experience with the likes of Jimmie Vaughan.
My Sweet LordGeorge Harrison
Released in 1970, this George Harrison song became a major hit.
It was the first single by a former member of the Beatles to reach No.
1.
A pop number that opens with gentle acoustic guitar strumming, it features a very beautiful melody.
Holy Wars…The Punishment DueMarty Friedman
First, I’d like to mention Marty Friedman—former Megadeth guitarist and a very well-known figure in Japan thanks to his numerous appearances on TV and other programs.
His greatest hallmark is his phrases that generously incorporate Japanese-style scales, and his speed-picking technique is also astounding.
TroubleKeith Richards
A single cut from an album released by The Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards.
It’s a superb, simple yet hard-hitting rock number, driven by Keith’s signature chopping rhythm guitar that slices in with zig-zag precision and real momentum.