Fast-picking guitarists of the world
Among guitarists, isn’t fast playing often a hot topic? If you actually play guitar yourself, you’ve probably admired it at least once.
And even if you’re not a guitarist, there are likely many people who love fast guitar playing in certain genres.
In this article, we’ll introduce a bunch of guitarists famous for their speed! You’ll be blown away by their performances as showcased in real songs.
From world-renowned legends to Japan’s premier players, this is a must-read for fans of fast playing!
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Fast-Picking Guitarists of the World (21–30)
Bark At The Moon LiveJake E Lee
An American guitarist born to a Japanese mother, best known for his work with the Ozzy Osbourne band and Badlands.
His signature is a tricky style often dubbed “Jake Fake,” and his visually striking techniques—such as two-handed tapping—captivated not only fans of shred guitar but a wide audience.
Influenced by the piano lessons he took in childhood, he is also highly skilled at composition and is known for writing many especially catchy songs.
Since launching his solo career, he has been highly active, contributing to numerous tribute albums for various musicians.
If you’re curious, seek out Jake E.
Lee’s recordings to hear his guitar playing across songs from a variety of bands.
Valley Of The KingsJohn Sykes
He is a guitarist who has performed with Thin Lizzy, the hard rock band from Ireland, and Whitesnake, the band formed by former Deep Purple member David Coverdale, and later founded his own band, Blue Murder.
His emotionally charged playing, reminiscent of Gary Moore, is superb and moving in every song.
World’s Fastest Guitarists (31–40)
The QuestGus G
Gus G.
is a Greek guitarist who has drawn attention as one of the world’s top technical players.
His lightning-fast picking is evident not only in his solos but also in his riffs, letting fans of shred guitar enjoy high-level playing throughout an entire track.
His melodic phrases and heavy riffs are catchy, further highlighting his fluid, high-speed style.
At one point he was a member of numerous bands simultaneously and was even called “the busiest guitarist in the world,” which could be seen as proof of just how in-demand and skilled he is.
Tumeni notesSteve Morse
An American guitarist who joined the legendary English rock band Deep Purple in 1994 and has been highly active with his own Steve Morse Band as well as the supergroup Flying Colors.
He makes extensive use of the chromatic scale, and his rapid-fire playing—deeply infused with influences not only from rock but also from jazz and bluegrass—creates truly unique melodies.
Although his exposure in Japan seems relatively limited compared to the many other shred guitar heroes, his instantly recognizable guitar tone and the phrases spun from his vast background are a must-hear.
If you love shred guitarists, he’s absolutely one you need to know.
Hundred ThousandTony MacAlpine
Tony MacAlpine is an American guitarist, born in 1960, who has been performing live since around 1984, focusing on instrumental pieces.
He is one of the fastest-playing guitarists among Black musicians and is also proficient at piano, which he started playing at the age of three.
In addition to metal tracks, his CDs also include performances of classical piano pieces.
Bodom Beach TerrorAlexi Wildchild Laiho
Alexi Laiho, the frontman and lead guitarist of the heavy metal band Children of Bodom.
He brings character to classical-style phrases and has the skill to handle tapping and sweep picking with ease.
In this track as well, he delivers vocals and guitar work characteristic of thrash metal.
AltitudesJason Becker
He was a guitarist who played in the band Cacophony, famed for its twin guitars with Marty Friedman, and later continued with solo work and session gigs.
Although his chronic illness worsened and he stepped away from the spotlight, the music he left behind shows a wide musical range, and his playing still sounds remarkably fresh today.
His technique is impeccable, and he showcases it to the fullest on this track.