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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World’s Fastest Guitarists (31–40)
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.
double guitarMichael Angelo Batio
Michael Angelo is an American guitarist born in 1956, and even among shred players he is extraordinarily fast.
He has also performed on a double-neck guitar that allows him to play with both hands.
He released a DVD titled “Speed Kills,” where you can see him performing on his double axe (double-neck guitar).
Black MagicReb Beach
He’s known as a member of the American band Winger, but he’s also a famous session guitarist who has worked with many top artists.
He specializes in rock-leaning jazz and fusion, and his phrasing is very distinctive.
In this track, he showcases an abundance of tapping techniques, really pulling out all the stops.
Solo God (and the power of a Stratocaster)Dave Murray
Dave Murray is a guitarist from the United Kingdom, born in 1956.
Even if you haven’t heard the name Dave Murray, you might recognize Iron Maiden.
Active since 1975, he is known for his distinctive use of trills.
He has favored the Stratocaster since his debut.
Sky Overture LiveUli Jon Roth
Uli Jon Roth is a German guitarist born in 1954.
He has been active since around 1970 and served as Michael Schenker’s successor in the Scorpions.
While guitars typically have six strings, Uli Jon Roth has also played a seven-string guitar.
Because he performs with long hair in a sage-like style, he is known in Japan as the “hermit guitarist.”
World’s Fastest Guitarists (41–50)
Sea of LiesMichael Romeo
As you’d expect from someone influenced by neoclassical metal, his playing is characterized by extensive use of diminished chords and the harmonic minor scale.
He also has solid mastery of techniques like sweeping, and just watching his finger movements is satisfying.
This video serves as a demonstration, making it very easy to follow and an excellent reference for studying his playing.
Welcome to BucketheadlandBuckethead
Buckethead is an American guitarist born in 1969 who performs wearing a white mask.
When he debuted, he played with a Kentucky Fried Chicken bucket on his head.
Nowadays, he performs with a white bucket on his head.
Active since 1987, he plays not only guitar but also a wide range of instruments including bass and synthesizer.