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. (41–50)
Mystery TrainJames Burton
This is a track where you can hear instrumental playing by James Burton, nicknamed “Mr.
Telecaster.” He’s famous for his work with Ricky Nelson and Elvis Presley, but his guitar playing, rooted in country, is very versatile and encompasses a wide range of styles.
People Get ReadyJeff Beck & Rod Stewart
A song featuring a collaboration with Rod Stewart, included on Jeff Beck’s album, released as a single, and a hit in Japan.
Rod Stewart’s husky voice and Jeff Beck’s sweet guitar tone create a wonderful world.
Hot ChaRoy Buchanan
A refreshing number by Roy Buchanan, also known as the Telecaster Master.
Renowned for his skillful technique and his command of a wide range of guitar tones, Buchanan delivers here as well, offering crisp tones and pick-induced harmonics to enjoy.
EuropaSantana
Famous in Japan under the title “Aishū no Europe” (Europa), this piece is an instrumental number included on Santana’s 1976 album.
Its passionate, sweet guitar sound is unforgettable after just one listen.
The use of space—like the lingering, held-back phrasing—creates gripping tension, making it a superb track.
CrossroadRobert Johnson
An African American guitarist.
A legendary blues singer, his music had a tremendous influence on many blues musicians of his time and on later rock.
With just an acoustic guitar, he performed and sang the blues as he traveled across the Americas, and it’s said that his skillful technique astonished audiences.
White SugarJoanne Shaw Taylor
A female blues guitarist from Birmingham, UK.
She is influenced by Albert Collins, Jimi Hendrix, and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
She plays a Telecaster, and her thick tone and bold playing style are striking.
Gambler’s BluesOtis Rush
Born in 1935, Otis Rush seems to have devoted himself to rehabilitation since suffering a stroke in 2004.
If possible, I’d love to see him make a comeback and “tear it up” on guitar like in this video.
Incidentally, he’s a great admirer of Japan, and his wife is Japanese.