Best Living Guitarist

[Exodist]

This is a survey to see who you all think is the best living guitarist. I will keep a record of all findings in this post.
Here are some examples: Eric Clapton, Eddie Van Halen, Angus Young(AC/DC), Steve Vai, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Rickey Medlocke(Lynard Skynard).
Make your choice!

My Choice is Hermon Li of Dragonforce



-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-

Hermon Li (1)
Slash (3)
Tommy Emmanuel (1)
Zak Wylde (1)
Matt Bellam (2)
David Gilmour (1)
John Petrucci (5)
Buckethead (1)
Peter Frampton (1)
John Frusciante (1)
Dave Mustaine (1)
Jeff Waters (1)
Tom Morello (1)
Robby Krieger (1)
Corey Beaulieu (1)
Stevie Vai (1)
Synyster Gates (1)
Nuno Bettencourt (1)

[InTransit]

I have always been a fan of Joe Satriani. I love the crazy 80's.

I saw Dragonforce play a few months ago and Herman Li was fucking awesome.

[daweydd]

I've always liked Saul Hudson A.K.A. Slash. I love his solos. I prefer his work in Guns N' Roses over Velvet Revolver.

[Sarge51]

Slash for the win!

If he is even alive anymore. I haven't heard much about him until recently.

[acci_dent]

Chris Cheney of The Living End is pretty crazy. Although, sticking with the Australian thing, I'll have to vote for Tommy Emmanuel.

[Zebbs]

Yngwie malmstein is the fasstest guitarist, but he's abit of a dick.

Zak wylde would be my vote

[beermonster256]

Hermon Li is incredibly fast, but that doesn't necessarily mean he's the best. My vote goes to Matt Bellamy of Muse, I don't know of any other guitarist who invents his own notes. And plus, he's a great laugh as well.

[HipHipHooray]

Yeahh, Matt Bellamy is my favourite. Creativity wise, he's one of the best. Pure skill wise, I'd definetly say John Petrucci or John Frusciante.

Yngwie and Li just play fast, and I don't think that's all that makes a guitarist.

[Iiro]

David Gilmour.

[Demoir]

I thought Stevie Ray died :/

And my vote goes out to John Petrucci.

[benjaste]

Slash... 'nuff said.

[Oberlin]

Definitely Petrucci.

[Ninja 2.0]

Slash is pretty bitchin, But BucketHead is (to my best knowledge) the actual fastest guitar player.
Check it out:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dz9FKIIaoQU

PLUS! He dances to techno with nunchuks!!!

[Exodist]

M'kay I updated the top post for totals so far.
Here is a nice little video of hermen making video game noises XD
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qtUiQJc7ZMI

[Derelict]

Peter Frampton. He can make his guitar talk, man!

[Oberlin]

Buckethead, like Herman Li, is just fast. And Frampton's talking thing is a gimmick, albeit a cool one. I still think Petrucci owns the hell outta everyone else mentioned thus far.

[Exodist]

Hmm. Are you sure that he could actually make his guitar "talk?" Video link plz.
Lots of artists have pedals that can be programed to say something when the player hits a string. An example would be from Black Sabbaths "Iron Man"

[Shagg]

Nobody says John Frusciante? Guitarist of Red Hot Chili Peppers? One of the funkiest-groove guitarist if I've ever seen one. You can't watch these live performances and NOT say he's sexy good. And theres alot more videos with awesome solo's in 'em.


Solo's- 2:38 & 3:40 to Outro (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Jm3f_tvN8qE)

Solo's-1:46 & 2:47 & 4:20 to Outro (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Js9u9OyaYqk)

[Oberlin]

Nobody says John Frusciante? Guitarist of Red Hot Chili Peppers? One of the funkiest-groove guitarist if I've ever seen one. You can't watch these live performances and NOT say he's sexy good. And theres alot more videos with awesome solo's in 'em.


Solo's- 2:38 & 3:40 to Outro (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Jm3f_tvN8qE)

Solo's-1:46 & 2:47 & 4:20 to Outro (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Js9u9OyaYqk)

Yeah, Frusciante was the third one that came to mind. He's kinda overshadowed by Flea, though, cuz Flea's one of the best bassists ever I think.

[Shagg]

Yeah, Frusciante was the third one that came to mind. He's kinda overshadowed by Flea, though, cuz Flea's one of the best bassists ever I think.

I think that's completley wrong.. the Flea/Frusciante combination is what makes each musician appear great. The chemistry between the two gives the music it's fluid rhythem and melody. Yes, Flea is the best Bassist ever... but John will sometimes write the bass lines for Flea on some songs. Mostly it's just because John knows what goes with another. But they are both great musicians and should be respected. If anyones getting over-shadowed it's Chad Smith. :ahe:

[Killer Carebear]

Flea's no where close to being the best bassist ever (Even if he is awesome). Just look at every jazz bassist. I know people in real life better than Flea. And Petrucci gets my vote for guitar, but there are plenty of guitarists that I know are better.

[Oberlin]

I think that's completley wrong.. the Flea/Frusciante combination is what makes each musician appear great. The chemistry between the two gives the music it's fluid rhythem and melody. Yes, Flea is the best Bassist ever... but John will sometimes write the bass lines for Flea on some songs. Mostly it's just because John knows what goes with another. But they are both great musicians and should be respected. If anyones getting over-shadowed it's Chad Smith. :ahe:

I'm gonna go ahead and assume Chad Smith is the drummer that nobody ever talks about cuz his 3 bandmates are ridiculous?

Also, Dave Mustaine, anyone?

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

Jeff Waters - Annihilator

No one else compares.

[Oberlin]

Who the hell?

Give me a song to listen to.

[Commodity]

Where's the love for Tom Morello? He's got my vote. He doesn't need to be the fastest, he does everything perfectly.

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

The Dagger - Roadrunner United (Jeff Waters does the solo.)
Voice Of The Voiceless - Roadrunner United (Another solo.)

Old Annihilator:

Alice In Hell
Crystal Ann
Don't Bother Me

New Annihilator:
All for you
Anything off of Waking The Fury

[Shagg]

I'm gonna go ahead and assume Chad Smith is the drummer that nobody ever talks about cuz his 3 bandmates are ridiculous?


My point stands. :mmyes:

[Oberlin]

I'd say, if I were to make a list:

1. Petrucci
2. Vai
3. Frusciante
4. Morello
5. Mustaine

Moreso my favorites than the greatest, but they're all great.

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

Petrucci if I had to choose.

[zombielovejuice]

Does anybody know the guitarist from Dragonforce? Thier not very good, but he is a FUCKIN FAST. :facts2:

[Oberlin]

Does anybody know the guitarist from Dragonforce? Thier not very good but he is a FUCKIN FAST. :facts2:

Did you even read the first post of this thread?

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

My Choice is Hermon Li of Dragonforce

[zombielovejuice]

Did you even read the first post of this thread?

Nope :gj:

[Oberlin]

Nope :gj:

PHIP, here's a prime example of why we flame people because of 'complete newb' status.

Hermon Li of Dragonforce is a very good guitarist, I have no idea where you get off on saying Dragonforce is no good, because they're one of the better bands out there nowadays. No idea what you listen to, but if you think Dragonforce is no good, 9 chances out of 10 say their drummer can play better guitar than what you like.

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

PHIP, here's a prime example of why we flame people because of 'complete newb' status.

I completely understand now. Sorry if I ever defended these kinds of people. But don't lump me in with that retard...
:ahe:

[zombielovejuice]

PHIP, here's a prime example of why we flame people because of 'complete newb' status.

Hermon Li of Dragonforce is a very good guitarist, I have no idea where you get off on saying Dragonforce is no good, because they're one of the better bands out there nowadays. No idea what you listen to, but if you think Dragonforce is no good, 9 chances out of 10 say their drummer can play better guitar than what you like.

The lyrics are pretty much all I like about them and thats only because they are ridiculous as hell. The guitar just pisses me off, its annoying.

[Exodist]

No idea what you listen to, but if you think Dragonforce is no good, 9 chances out of 10 say their drummer can play better guitar than what you like.

Bahahahah!!!!! God, I laughed out loud sooooo damn much when I hear that. The weird thing is that it's most likely true :rolleyes::rolleyes:

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

The lyrics are pretty much all I like about them and thats only because they are ridiculous as hell. The guitar just pisses me off, its annoying.

You've got that backwards, the lyrics are ridiculous but the guitar saves the day.

IMO.

[Shagg]

But don't lump me in with that retard...:ahe:


Ska is terrible...
So are skankers.
Thats why everyone beats the shit out of them.
Stupid plaid and fedoras.
Fuckin band geeks.
Poseurs.

Too Late... :ahe:

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

Another ska loving communist. It was a fucking opinion. GET OVER IT.

[sparta47]

HAHA Shaggmuffin for the win, I know he is not as good as all of these other guitarist but i abolutly love The Doors and everyone of their songs. So my votes for Robby Krieger.

[zombielovejuice]

Too Late... :ahe:

OH SHIT SON!! :hf:

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

zombielovejuice:

Living life one retarded post at a time.

[Shagg]

Another ska loving communist. It was a fucking opinion. GET OVER IT.

I'm not a "Ska Loving Communist"... but that was just such a close-minded and completley retarded statement; you can't get away with it un-scathed. Sorry, kid. :indiff:

And you flaming another Complete Newb gets you no where...

[Exodist]

In my opinion, Robby Krieger is good, I love the Doors, but he's not worthy of "The Best Guitarist" award. :aaa:

[zombielovejuice]

zombielovejuice:

Living life one retarded post at a time.

HELLZ YA :banjo:

[Oberlin]

http://forums.explosm.net/showthread.php?p=71757#post71757

Take this bullshittery there, and let's talk about some guitarists, perhaps?

[Exodist]

HELLZ YA :banjo:

http://www.teeful.com/photos/ABC-27-2T.jpg
>:o

[DieHard]

I am surprised no one has said Steven Vai, if you listen to him play you would want to change your choice immediately.

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

Sorry that I don't love Fall Out Boy. :ahe:

And I'm not a "Ska Loving Communist"... but that was just such a close-minded and completley retarded statement; you can't get away with it un-scathed. Sorry, kid. :indiff:

Fall Out Boy is worse than ska. But nice spin on an over used insult. Honestly everything you say has been uttered before. Calling someone emo without knowing a thing about them is so played out here.

As to the communist remark; try having a defiant opinion in a communist country.


As to guitarists, Matt Heafy and Corey Beaulieu (Trivium) are a great combo.

[Shagg]

I am surprised no one has said Steven Vai, if you listen to him play you would want to change your choice immediately.

Never heard of him.. what band? :mmyes:


Calling someone emo without knowing a thing about them is so played out here.

What.. calling someone a Ska Loving Communist without knowing them is better? Think again. :ahe:

(And now we stop the flaming and focus on the Guitar.)

[zombielovejuice]

http://forums.explosm.net/showthread.php?p=71757#post71757

Take this bullshittery there, and let's talk about some guitarists, perhaps?

Oh right sorry, I call Eddie Van Halen

[Oberlin]

Seriously, take it to beef and quit shitting up this thread guys.

Vai is damn good, but I'm not familiar enough with his work to put him over Petrucci.

[Exodist]

As to guitarists, Matt Heafy and Corey Beaulieu (Trivium) are a great combo.


Please pick one of those. And I agree with you, they are really good together:smile:
Never heard of him.. what band? :mmyes:

Wiki delivers... (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Steve_Vai)

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

Never heard of him.. what band? :mmyes:

* Frank Zappa (1980-1982)
* Steve Vai (1982-1984)
* Alcatrazz (1985)
* David Lee Roth (1985-1986)
* Public Image Ltd. (1985-1986)
* Frank Zappa (1986)
* David Lee Roth (1987-1988)
* Whitesnake (1988-1990)
* Solo (1989-present)
* Ozzy Osbourne (1995)

[snap1o5]

I'm definitely going to have to say Vai. He can get the speed and technique that a lot of these guys can do, but he can put a hell of a lot of feeling and shit in it too. And I'm kind of surprised almost no people have said Malmsteen yet. He has some awesome stuff.

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

Never heard of him.. what band? :mmyes:




What.. calling someone a Ska Loving Communist without knowing them is better? Think again. :ahe:

(And now we stop the flaming and focus on the Guitar.)


I know you love ska. You don't know I'm emo.

Please pick one of those. And I agree with you, they are really good together:smile:

Corey is better than Matt but I swear to god Matt showed some rivaling skill on the Roadrunner United sessions. I dunno I guess Matt since he is great at singing and producing music.

[Exodist]

You stole from my post jackass :?
:gtfo:

[DieHard]

Never heard of him.. what band? :mmyes:


His band is Steve Vai, trust me he is a REALLY good guitarist. Go to his website to see more about him

[Shagg]

I know you love ska. You don't know I'm emo.


Go to the Ska Thread, and find my post; it's like the second one. Then realize where you went wrong. K?

(And again.. let's stop the flaming, and move it somewhere else...)

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

You stole from my post jackass :?
:gtfo:

I was starting to post before you posted. Sorry.

[Nyr_Rob]

Synyster Gates
He just simply is the best

[Exodist]

What band is he from, Nyr_Rob?

[Oberlin]

What band is he from, Nyr_Rob?

Avenged Sevenfold.

Very good guitarist, shame he's in a rapidly declining band.

[PrettyHasItsPrice]

After A7x did a cameo in one of Good Charlotte's videos I started to lose faith. Then the remix of Eternal Rest was so shitty I considered deleting them from my iTunes. They were great live though and Sounding the Seventh Trumpet and Waking The Fallen are awesome albums.

[Couch]

Nuno Bettencourt, anybody?

[drunkchuck]

I'll say John Petrucci, he's amazing and he is relatively famous, although there are guitarists technically more skilled but almost unknown like Rusty Cooley. And it's impossible to say who's the best, too many styles.

If you like Yngwie, look up Joe Stump. He has Yngwie's exact style, his vibrato, harmonic minor all that and he adds to it. Like Yngwie but better.

[Oberlin]

After A7x did a cameo in one of Good Charlotte's videos I started to lose faith. Then the remix of Eternal Rest was so shitty I considered deleting them from my iTunes. They were great live though and Sounding the Seventh Trumpet and Waking The Fallen are awesome albums.

Completely agree.

If all you know of Avenged Sevenfold is Bat Country/ Beast and the Harlot/ Seize the day, look up their older stuff. As far as they go, the music is overall better, but Gates' guitar work is nothing short of tremendous on all 3 albums (and hopefully on the fourth one, it's all that can save them in my opinion).

[Rick_James_Bitch]

Since Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jimi Hendrix are both dead, I'll do multiple picks.

This is in no particular order.

1. Hermon Li (Dragonforce)
2. Nuno Bettencourt (Extreme)
3. Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society/Ozzy Osbourne)
4. Slash (Guns 'n Roses)
5. Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machine/Audioslave)
6. Peter Frampton
7. Dick Dale
8. Eric Clapton
9. Eddie Van Halen
10. Buckethead
11. Dave Murray (Iron Maiden)
12. Alex Lifeson (Rush)
13. David Gilmour (Pink Floyd)
14. Keith Richards (Rolling Stones)
15. John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers)
16. Ricky Medlocke (Lynyrd Skynyrd)
17. Steve Vai
18. Angus Young (AC/DC)
19. Dave Mustaine (Megadeth)
20. Robby Krieger (The Doors)
21. Glenn Tipton/K.K Downing (Judas Priest)
22. Kirk Hammet (Metallica)
23. Dan Spitz (Anthrax)
24. Jeff Hanneman (Slayer)
25. Carlos Santana (EDIT: How the fuck did I leave him out? I should be ashamed...)

[drunkchuck]

Since Stevie Ray Vaughan and Jimi Hendrix are both dead, I'll do multiple picks.

This is in no particular order.

1. Hermon Li (Dragonforce)
2. Nuno Bettencourt (Extreme)
3. Zakk Wylde (Black Label Society/Ozzy Osbourne)
4. Slash (Guns 'n Roses)
5. Tom Morello (Rage Against the Machine/Audioslave)
6. Peter Frampton
7. Dick Dale
8. Eric Clapton
9. Eddie Van Halen
10. Buckethead
11. Dave Murray (Iron Maiden)
12. Alex Lifeson (Rush)
13. David Gilmour (Pink Floyd)
14. Keith Richards (Rolling Stones)
15. John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers)
16. Ricky Medlocke (Lynyrd Skynyrd)
17. Steve Vai
18. Angus Young (AC/DC)
19. Dave Mustaine (Megadeth)
20. Robby Krieger (The Doors)
21. Glenn Tipton/K.K Downing (Judas Priest)
22. Kirk Hammet (Metallica)
23. Dan Spitz (Anthrax)
24. Jeff Hanneman (Slayer)

This list is okay, if you remember that greatest guitarist doesn't mean the most skill, it also has to do with how they influence and innovate and all that, but.... Herman Li at number one? That's just hilarious.

[Killer Carebear]

Though even funnier; in this thread, people think Flea is the best bassist ever.

[Exodist]

Herman Li at number one? That's just hilarious.

This is in no particular order.

Some people just cant read these days. :facts:

[Jallen]

Tom Morello is a guitar god. He deserves to be considered the best guitarist of all time because of his sheer disregard for the tradition of the instrument.

[Exodist]

Looks like we have a winner!
John Petrucci in first and Slash in a close second with 3 votes. We also have an 15-way-tie for 4th place!

[Oberlin]

Though even funnier; in this thread, people think Flea is the best bassist ever.

In my defense, I said one of. Thing with Flea is that his style meshes SO well with the rest of the band, and you honestly can't tell me you can name a band that you can mistake the Chili Peppers for.

To be more accurate, Flea is the most unique bassist I can name.

[Badgers Brow]

Guitarist would have to be Carlos Santana, extremely skilled i think.

[Sarge51]

Hermon Li of Dragonforce. As said before. This guy is totally a new-age rock-god.

[Relaps]

Slash could belt out riffs like it was his businiess.

OH WAIT-

[social_lawnmower]

Synyster Gates, for such a young guy he shreds like a mean-machine. He can only get better aswell.

My sister did social service for Flea's Grandma. Jealous much?

[Oberlin]

Synyster Gates, for such a young guy he shreds like a mean-machine. He can only get better aswell.

True, if we're gonna go on an age to skill ratio, Gates blows about everybody who's ever existed away, I know they were all in high school still when Sounding the Seventh Trumpet was released. So he can't be older than 24 or 25.

[Hats of!]

David Gilmour is the greatest guitarist of all time. I mean... COMFORTABLY NUMB.

[Lekhter]

Alexi Laiho :evillaugh, imho, is the best living guitarist... Adam Jones is also very good, as well as Jimmy Page. As u can see, they're all different genre guitarists, so u can pick what u fancy most...

[Shagg]

Again.. more proof of the greatness we call John Frusciante..

Awesome Intro (http://youtube.com/watch?v=myfzi5hEjIU&mode=related&search=)

More Awesome Intro. Only pic's on this one though.. (http://youtube.com/watch?v=6VmQEVdnBLQ&mode=related&search=)

Outro (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=svA--_UYVB4&mode=related&search=)

Jam (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmFO904qL0I&NR=1)

Nother Jam (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IWP56ziLXQU&mode=related&search=)


John is the one and only Guitar Jesus. :christ:

[Cheshire Smile]

Emppu Vuorinen of Nightwish. His guitar solos boggle my mind.

[AZGratton14]

Vinnie Vincent. Youtube search he solo compilation, he isn't the most skilled but he is better balanced between skill and speed than Herman Li or Yngwie.

[Exodist]

I can't believe that this thread is still alive :ahe:

[odyeiop]

Michael Angelo Batio
http://youtube.com/watch?v=RLnOx4E-G1g

[Iiro]

Lmao at the people who said Herman Li.

[CnGy]

I think you guys are confusing "best" with famous in a lot of cases.

I'd vote for David Gilmour.

Or santana.

[Rick_James_Bitch]

Lmao at the people who said Herman Li.


What's so funny about liking Hermon Li? He's an amazing guitarist, mainly because he can play all of those notes at amazingly fast speeds. I don't see many other guitarists (or people, in general) who are able to do that. However, I do agree that there are better guitarists then him.

[El Travo]

Herman Li, he is my choice of best.

[Chad625]

Yngwie Malmsteen

I have no musical taste

[Iiro]

What's so funny about liking Hermon Li? He's an amazing guitarist, mainly because he can play all of those notes at amazingly fast speeds. I don't see many other guitarists (or people, in general) who are able to do that. However, I do agree that there are better guitarists then him.
How is he any different to any other generic fast shredding metal guitarist, apart from the fact that he's sloppy as fuck live (it's all studio magic)? He also writes shit solos. In fact I'd say Sam Totman (the other guitarist from dragonforce) is way better than Herman Li. At least his solos kinda fit the songs.

OFMGG HE CAN PLAY FAST NOETS!!#(!#(!#

[Spastic]

Nobody mentioned Jimmy Page? I really have lost hope in our generation.

[Enslave]

As was stated before: Stevie Rae Vaughn is dead. So take that off the list.

And to all of you saying Steve Vai: He's simply just another copy of Joe Satriani, who gave guitar lessons to Steve. But I'm not saying hes bad (I'm a fan too)

My vote goes for Ted Nugent. HAVE YOU ALL HONESTLY FORGOTTEN OF THE NUGE?

[CnGy]

Nobody mentioned Jimmy Page? I really have lost hope in our generation.

Haven't you noticed, kids can't think.

They don't see, influence as talent. The person just STARTED something doesn't mmean they perfected it.

Fuck it doesn't fucking matter I like that new mainstream shit man.

[hzac]

I am a huge fan of Alexi Laiho but there are certainly better guitarists.

For example, Michael Angelo Batio.

Fast as hell but doesn't lose the feel of a real guitarist.

Check him out here, seriously worth it (http://youtube.com/watch?v=qG74eVb6V10)

[Rick_James_Bitch]

How is he any different to any other generic fast shredding metal guitarist, apart from the fact that he's sloppy as fuck live (it's all studio magic)? He also writes shit solos. In fact I'd say Sam Totman (the other guitarist from dragonforce) is way better than Herman Li. At least his solos kinda fit the songs.

OFMGG HE CAN PLAY FAST NOETS!!#(!#(!#

Well yeah, but playing that fast is kind of hard to do, right? I mean, all of those notes going that fast is pretty hard to do. But if I could pick a better fast playing guitarist, it would probably be Buckethead, because I'm pretty sure that you can agree with me that he's amazing.

[drunkchuck]

Well yeah, but playing that fast is kind of hard to do, right? I mean, all of those notes going that fast is pretty hard to do. But if I could pick a better fast playing guitarist, it would probably be Buckethead, because I'm pretty sure that you can agree with me that he's amazing.

Actually playing like Herman Li is not at all hard to do, you just pick as fast as you can and tap with your pick. Since it's Herman Li, you can be as sloppy as shit and still sound like him.

Playing like a guitarist who has actually developed their speed picking to be able to play notes fast and cleanly, like Buckethead (Better examples would be Rusty Cooley and Shawn Lane, Rusty's probably the fastest alive able to pick that clean and no one will ever be able to play like Shawn Lane), that is very hard to do. But that's just pure speed. MAB is also very fast and clean, but he has nothing on Rusty Cooley or Shawn Lane unless you count his ambidextrous playing, which I just consider a gimmick. Personally I like Paul Gilbert. Did anyone go see G3 this year? I thought it was the best yet.

[meTalmessiah]

True, if we're gonna go on an age to skill ratio, Gates blows about everybody who's ever existed away, I know they were all in high school still when Sounding the Seventh Trumpet was released. So he can't be older than 24 or 25.

As long as we're in the realm of young talented guitarists, as someone said before, Alexi Laiho is pretty damn skilled. Not exactly sure how old he is, but he cant be much older than 30 at the most.

Aside from Laiho, I'm a big fan of Joe Satriani and Yngwie Malmsteen. Slash and Van Halen are pretty high up on my list, too. Last year, Eruption was voted in as the best solo in rock by DC 101, and the Sweet Child solo was voted in as #2. Guns N' Roses is one of the most influential bands of all time, in my opinion, and Appetite for Destruction sold the 2nd most amount of records ever in the US, 15 million copies. And that was their first album. Slash pretty much takes the win on this one.

[Jiveturkey]

Easily without a doubt in my mind I say this man

http://www.gibson.com/Files/AllAccess/images/DEREK_TRUCKS5.jpg

Derek Trucks.


A lot of people seem to be basing this on speed. Remember folks, good playing isn't about speed. :cheerio:

[odyeiop]

If it comes down to instill feeling, then Mark Knopfler is without a doubt the finest guitar player ever. Technically I stand by Michael Angelo Batio still.

[Jiveturkey]

I'm gonna guess most of you have never heard of Derek Trucks let alone heard him play so I figure I'm gonna have to supply the evidence.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=MmgKEPVPyF0

[FatPete]

I'm just gonna counter the people who said Michael Angelo Batio, by saying Francesco Fareri;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0z0vt-D7ncs

[zombielovejuice]

For all those who are picking Hermon Li cause he's "fast".. I think this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnlkVefMVQM) sums up why that's a bad choice. :ahe:

[FatPete]

that has EVERYTHING to do with playing the six-stringed guitar with the rock and roll music \:lol:/

[Rick_James_Bitch]

For all those who are picking Hermon Li cause he's "fast".. I think this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EnlkVefMVQM) sums up why that's a bad choice. :ahe:

What the fuck does crappy, processed meat have to do with rock and roll music?

[Zumbunny]

Jimmy Page and Slash are the best guitarist.

[Cocktapus]

john 5. Hes making an instrumental album right now.

[CnGy]

Now that I think about it slash and jimmy page were better than david gilmour as far as being rockers went.

Gilmour had some good songs though.

Some.

[meTalmessiah]

Jimmy Page and Slash are the best guitarists.

Seconded.

[Spiffy13]

Best technically or just best overall?

[barnesy111]

Tommy Emmanuel, or Slash.

I love the Zack Wylde Les Paul though.
http://www.musik-service.de/images/ProduX/395623998j00.jpg (http://epiphone.com/ZakkUPCLOSE/RT1.jpg) (click for bigger image)

[BadAnkle]

Jimmy Page and Slash are the best guitarist.

Jimmy Page is incredibly sloppy. Slash is near the top, but I'd still go with Steve Howe.

[Morfrock Yartz]

Slash and Jimmy Page.
Gene Simmons wins for best Bassist.

[Spiffy13]

Gene Simmons wins for best Bassist.
What the fuck? Have you even heard other bassists? Jason Newstead, Cliff Burton, Robert Trujillo, James LoMenzo, David Ellefson - they're all better then Gene Simmons by alot :facts:

[Commodity]

What the fuck? Have you even heard other bassists? Jason Newstead, Cliff Burton, Robert Trujillo, James LoMenzo, David Ellefson - they're all better then Gene Simmons by alot :facts:

Don't forget Les Claypool.

[teh_kyle00]

My vote's for Slash. His weirdness is awesome, and so is the rock-ness.

[drunkchuck]

What the fuck? Have you even heard other bassists? Jason Newstead, Cliff Burton, Robert Trujillo, James LoMenzo, David Ellefson - they're all better then Gene Simmons by alot :facts:

Don't forget Les Claypool.

I like Billy Sheehan. And the best I've ever seen is probably Victor Wooten.

[WTF]

Hermon Li... *0* I love Dragonforce.

[Ziggy St. Valentine]

First I wanna say Jason Newstead is a fag & ruined Metallica's sound, now I've got that off my chest time for guitarists...
You can't really say somebody is 'the best' because there are so many different styles of playing, different genres etc etc.
So hears a list of some of my personal favourites who I think could definatly compete for the honour of 'best':

Keith Richards/Ronnie Wood - Rolling Stones
Jimmy Page - Led Zeppelin
Kirk Hammett - Metallica
John Frusciante - RHCP
Mick Mars - Motley Crue
Slash/Izzy Stradlin (can't believe nobody's said Izzy yet!) - Guns 'N' Roses
Keith Nelson/Stevie D - Buckcherry
Joe Satriani
Eric Clapton
Carlos Santana
Robb Flynn - Machine Head
Eddie Van Halen - Van Halen
Dave Murrey/Adrian Smith/Janick Gers - Iron Maiden
Buckethead
Tony Iommi - Black Sabbath
K.K. Downing/Glenn Tipton - Judas Priest
John Petrucci - Dream Theatre
Zakk Wylde - Black Label Society/Ozzy Osbourne
Richie Blackmore - Deep Purple
Angus Young/ Malcom Young - AC/DC

That's all I can think of for now...but you seriously cannot label somebody as the greatest guitarist of all time...because every guitarist is different in their own way.

[Lekhter]

I must agree with you Ziggy, none of us will ever agree on who is the "best", because there are guitarists who are best for different reasons. So we should accept each others opinions, Each guitarist is mentioned for a different reason and we should rather look at that instead of ripping each other off about who sucks and whose technique is sloppy...

But enough with the gay speeches, back to the action.

I must confess that I am a great fan of Tom Morello, mostly because of the way he used the pencil to create those sounds on Cochise (Audioslave) and Revolver (RATM).

[Tempest]

Far said I could bump this, before anyone tries to hurt me.

I can't believe how few lists Carlos Santana is on. Seriously. The man might just be the greatest guitarist to come out of the last 50 years, if not close to it. Right up there with him is Steve Vai, John Petrucci, and Joe Satriani. I also have a few bones to pick in this thread.

Eddie Van Halen: Old hat, and overrated. I've got a news flash for everyone who has an orgasm over Eruption, it's not that hard of a solo to play. I'm not even a guitarist, but I know the in's and out's, and Eruption isn't even fast strumming or fast fretwork. Most of the song is lifting and dropping the pinky finger while strumming high on the neck.

Mustaine: I'm not denying that he's good at all, but he's sloppy sloppy sloppy, all the way. I can't stand half of his solos because the guitar just sounds sloppy to me.. I'm speaking live of course, studio magic does wonders. This is also why Herman Li isn't on my list, even though I'm a big fan of Dragonforce.

Buckethead: If I were having an impromptu jam session, Buckethead would be the first person I would call. Now, if I were making an album, where an actual melody and rhythm is involved, he wouldn't even be invited. Seriously, the man can thrash his ass off, with the best of them, but his actual songs are very much less than impressive. There's a difference between making cool sounds on your guitar, and actually putting together a song.

[BermyGirl]

Brian May was/is a fantastic guitarist, and I'm pretty sure he's still alive.

[John Travolta]

PETE TOWNSHEND AND CARLOS SANTANA.

[blltmssgy]

I would have to say Eric Clapton = #1 currently alive
Up there is also Santana, Prince (don't like his music, but what a great guitarist), if you want to included the mandolin (since it is very similar), I'd say David Grisman.

Best of all (even tough not asked), Jimi Hendrix and Jerry Garcia, and they live on forever through music.

[Jonk]

Pete Townshend for sure

[TheHighwaySong]

This may sound off, but the first thing I thought of was Muhammed Suiçmez from Necrophagist.

[julio]

Jimmy Page, because he plays messy but it still sounds badass.
John Frusciante, because anything he plays sounds so full of feeling, it doesn't matter if it's not that complicated.
Omar Rodriguez-Lopez, because he's the fucking epitome of creativity.

[Ori0n]

If John Frusciante is on the list then John Mayer HAS to be.

[Assassin]

Kirk Hammett - Metallica
I'm a great Metallica fan, but come on. You can't say Kirk is one of the best guitarists alive.

[Shagg]

I'm still stickin' with John Frusciante on this one.

I hear some Pete Townshends here; now, Pete was a GREAT song writer (sense he write everything for The Who), but I don't think his guitar parts were really amazing or anything. Maybe since it was like the 60's, that it was really good for that time. But I still don't think he was "THE BEST".

[Tempest]

I'm a great Metallica fan, but come on. You can't say Kirk is one of the best guitarists alive.

Incredibly agreed. Kirk is one of the originators of thrash guitaring, but mostly what that consists of is playing really fast complex SOUNDING (notice, I said sounding) strings of notes (coughEDDIEVANHALENcough). There's not a whole lot of technical skill involved, just some fast fingers.

[Knight of Cydonia]

Matt Bellamy just because some of his stuff is so inventive and sounds awesome. Plus he sings while playing.

[Ziggy St. Valentine]

I'm a great Metallica fan, but come on. You can't say Kirk is one of the best guitarists alive.

Actually now that I think more of it, yeah I agree with you in a way. Though I do think he definatly deserves to be considered not just because of his work in Metallica, but also his early work in Exodus, he did alot of great things for thrash metal.

[badumpbumpbump]

When you speak of a good guitarist, what do you really mean? I mean, there are people like Herman Li ( Just for clarification, his name is spelled with an a, for all of you mispellers:wink: ) and Buckethead, who can play fast, but I believe that A good guitarist also has an outstanding personality. I am also picking Buckethead, just because of his quirky nature.

[TheHighwaySong]

Shoot me, but Tom Morello has not played a solo that hasn't managed to annoy me. (With a slight exception to the Like A Stone solo with Audioslave)

[lazypenguin]

JIMI HENDR... Oh, wait.

Chris Impellitteri. Great guitarist. (I'm not sure if he's alive though =/ )

[badumpbumpbump]

Jimi Hendrix is great. Playing guitar with teeth? I mean that deserves a medal...

[joshualeet.]

If no one has said it yet,
Paul Waggoner and Dustie Waring from Between the Buried and Me

they own everyone in this thread at everything.

[the2na]

Honestly I'd say the best guitarist alive would have to be Eric Clapton.

But I have two favorite guitarists. Tom Morello and Thomas Erak (From the Fall Of Troy). I just love both of their custom sounds they add to songs.

[drunkchuck]

If no one has said it yet,
Paul Waggoner and Dustie Waring from Between the Buried and Me

they own everyone in this thread at everything.

Haha. They're very talented, and they're able to respectably recreate their songs live from what I've seen, but they're nothing special. The lead work isn't really that original or creative, it's very technical, but nothing that hasn't been around for the last 20 years.

Plenty of guitarists mentioned in this thread can do all that and more; Paul Gilbert, John Petrucci, Buckethead, Vai, Andy Timmons, Rusty Cooley, Ron Thal... I don't know if all of those have been mentioned, but you get the point.

[randomized]

Umm i dunno... they are all awesome, but probably John Petrucci.

I know this wasn't asked, but im gonna include bass as well since I play it, so probably Steve Harris, Flea and Victor Wooten.

[iGavin]

Emppu Vuorinen, lead guitarist of Nightwish. I hope it is anyway, I just immediately thought 'the lead guitarist in Nightwish plays the sickest solos I've ever heard' but I didn't know what the guitarist's name was, so I looked it up on the internet. Hope I got it right.

[Jiveturkey]

A couple people have commented about John Fruciante's feeling in his playing. I don't hear that at all. When he plays I hear a Hendrix clone all the way.


As for this thread I still firmly stand by Derek Trucks and encourage all of you to give him a listen, just assuming most of you have never heard of him.

[danthelegend]

Matt Bellamy just because some of his stuff is so inventive and sounds awesome. Plus he sings while playing.

Its not uncommon for guitarists to sing and play guitar at the same time, you know.

For me its Brian May. Followed closely by Carlos Santana, Steve Vai and (I bet I get alot of abuse for this) Dan and Justin Hawkins.

[100%orangejuice]

Saul Hudson.
Other option: Gary Rossington and Allen Collins

[buckfan]

Holy shit, You don't have Yngwie Malmsteen on this list?
He's the most talented Guitarist period. Ever.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=SzW8fi8z5C8&feature=related

Keep in mind that all you hear in the background is a drum-machine. All the guitar sounds are coming from that one guitar.

[danthelegend]

Holy shit, You don't have Yngwie Malmsteen on this list?
He's the most talented Guitarist period. Ever.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=SzW8fi8z5C8&feature=related

Keep in mind that all you hear in the background is a drum-machine. All the guitar sounds are coming from that one guitar.

Incorrect. Speed ≠ Talent. There are FAR more talented guitarists. He just goes mad and plays really fast. He's better than most, granted. But he's not "the most talented Guitarist period. Ever." Not by a long shot.

[lobster bisque anyone?]

I say the best live guitarist is Eddie Van Halen and im not saying this because of his speed, but just about how the music is.

Greatest dead guitarist: Duane Allman

[Clerlic]

Buckethead?

[FAGGY MCFAGGER FAGGOTY FAG]

Not sure, but some in my opinion great guitarists are at least Slash from GNR, Carlos Santana, Herman Li and Steve Vai.

[ytrewq]

Mick mars anyone? Hes not the best but hes a great guitarist, my guitar idol lol.

[buckfan]

Incorrect. Speed ≠ Talent. There are FAR more talented guitarists. He just goes mad and plays really fast. He's better than most, granted. But he's not "the most talented Guitarist period. Ever." Not by a long shot.

He goes mad? His songs follow his crazy ass sheet music perfectly. None of it is random, all of that awesomeness is planned.
Also his tone quality is amazing and some of his songs which don't blow your mind are pretty melodic too.

[meTalmessiah]

I'm gonna throw in a category for acoustic guitarists, since they don't get recognized. For me, it's Andy McKee. (http://youtube.com/watch?v=Ddn4MGaS3N4) Every sound you hear in that song comes from one guitar.

In terms of electric guitarists, I'd have to cast my vote for Slash. I love Yngwie and Vai and Satriani and all them, but Slash's melodies as well as the speed at which he plays them just strike a chord with me. (Pardon the pun)

[drunkchuck]

He goes mad? His songs follow his crazy ass sheet music perfectly. None of it is random, all of that awesomeness is planned.
Also his tone quality is amazing and some of his songs which don't blow your mind are pretty melodic too.

His tone is amazing and his vibrato is one of the best I've ever heard, and he's definitely very influential, he started the Shred genre practically by himself, but it's pretty much a fact that there are more technical players out there. If you like people who can "follow crazy ass sheet music perfectly", check out Andy Timmons, Paul Gilbert, Buckethead, John Petrucci, Steve Vai, Rusty Cooley, Ron Thal, Jason Becker (he's still alive although he can't play), Guthrie Govan, Chris Impellitteri, Vinnie Moore, Joe Stump. Most of them can do everything Yngwie can do plus more.

Also check out Shawn Lane, probably the most skilled guitarist ever (all the above list would agree).

[SuEsq]

Yea yea, go Orange Juice. Saul Hudson fo sho. Slash is kick ass. Just look at the dude: top hat (I'm sure one of the animators on this site is a fan of top hats), the permed hair thats prettier than most womens that I know, cig always in the mouth, intoxicated congratulatory speeches...the man is a legend.

[Knight of Cydonia]

[QUOTE=danthelegend;317789]Its not uncommon for guitarists to sing and play guitar at the same time, you know.

Not too many people do play while singing. It very hard to do. Plus how many sing as well as Matt while playing such riffs as plug in baby. Also muse in many peoples opinions are one of the best live bands ever because of what he does on stage. I have seen them live and it left a wow. The sound quality was amazing and how they get into the music is great. I believe no one has been let down by muse at a live concert.

[dimeforever]

Yea, but Matt Heafy, who is 21 until next month is better. so is Corey Beaulieu. ive heard both in concert and still, trivium>a7x even if theyre both "fake" or non metal
theyre both younger than syn

Synyster Gates, for such a young guy he shreds like a mean-machine. He can only get better aswell.

My sister did social service for Flea's Grandma. Jealous much?

[Tempest]

He goes mad? His songs follow his crazy ass sheet music perfectly. None of it is random, all of that awesomeness is planned.
Also his tone quality is amazing and some of his songs which don't blow your mind are pretty melodic too.

Umm, just because it was written on sheet music doesn't make it any less random. :indiff: He could have still just written random guitar notes on the paper and played them later. I'm pretty sure that's what Buckethead does. Then he throws in unnecessary amounts of killswitch action and calls it a solo.

[IWishIwasRad]

I believe the best guitarist is Synyster Gates from Avenged Sevenfold. He has one of the best five minutes solos I have ever heard. The song Lost on the new CD shows why he is the best.

[bono]

DAVE EVANS.THE EDGE.U2.NO COMPARISON.

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[JonC]

Jimmy Page. Oh and what about Eric Johnson, the guy who done Cliffs of Dover, he's pretty awesome. Though Cliffs of Dover is the only song I heard from him.

But my vote goes to Page.

[Alternative]

I dunno about best, but Kirk Hammet is a good guitarist.

[UnknownAnarchy]

I can't choose between Jimmy Page, Slash, Zakk Wylde, Robby Kreiger, and Mick Mars. They all rock.

[Ziggy St. Valentine]

DAVE EVANS.THE EDGE.U2.NO COMPARISON.

The Edge really isn't that great, sure hes a good guitarist, but nowhere near the best living guitar player around. 90% of his stuff is just effects, and most of U2's songs sound very similar and not original at all.

[JonC]

Wes Borland is a good guitarist, I like his sound, with or without Limp Bizkit, don't know if he's one of the "best" thats living, but he's still good. Did you guys remember Brian May? From Queen? What about the guy from Rush, I don't remember his name though. What about Angus Young from AC/DC? Or the guitarist from Deep Purple, or the guitarist(s) from The Outlaws?

[yellersamick23]

I must say that I really think Micheal Romeo of Symphony X is pretty insane and the guys from Dragonforce.
Other than that the list was pretty good.

[Handel]

Holy shit, five pages and just one mention of Omar Rodriguez-Lopez. I'm ashamed.

Either him, or this guy: http://fabienm.club.fr/paus/secret.mp3

[bouchard107]

I would have to say Tom Morello. Everyone that has said him has also said what a great innovator he is. I agree, and the fact that he doesn't sample off of D.J.'s to come up with the sounds he uses. Damn amazing if I do say so myself

[Tempest]

I found this today, and I felt the need to mention it.

http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/5937559/the_100_greatest_guitarists_of_all_time/

Can you say, most inaccurate list ever? Duane Allman at #2. Jack White of the White Stripes at #17.

Eddie Van Halen? #70. Number fucking 70. Pete Townshend is 50, Randy Rhoads is 85, Tony Iommy is 86, Angus Young is fucking 96. Somebody at Rolling Stone has their heads WAY too far up their asses. Steve Vai isn't even on the fucking list!

[danthelegend]

I found this today, and I felt the need to mention it.

http://www.rollingstone.com/news/story/5937559/the_100_greatest_guitarists_of_all_time/

Can you say, most inaccurate list ever? Duane Allman at #2. Jack White of the White Stripes at #17.

Eddie Van Halen? #70. Number fucking 70. Pete Townshend is 50, Randy Rhoads is 85, Tony Iommy is 86, Angus Young is fucking 96. Somebody at Rolling Stone has their heads WAY too far up their asses. Steve Vai isn't even on the fucking list!

Good GOD, that is the worst list imaginable! The fact that neither Steve Vai or Joe Satriani are on that list at all makes me think that the person who wrote this list didn't have the first idea what was going on. David Gilmour at #82? Ridiculous.

[MaxAlcolo]

Choosing from the list above, I'll go with Slash.

[PyroOwned]

Jimmy Hendrix. Seriously, he is a great musician and showman.

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[danthelegend]

Jimmy Hendrix. Seriously, he is a great musician and showman.

Jimi Hendrix has been dead for quite some time, my friend.

[TheLameSauce]

I have to say Jack White is an amazing guitarist. His stuff always has me comparing him to a modern day Hendrix. He might not be the best, but damn he's talented.

[Hats of!]

Steve Hackett is a hell of a good guitarist. You know, the one from early Genesis.
Just see this video, ignore the singing if you hate prog, but listen to the solo.
http://youtube.com/watch?v=W35wtfcByIY

[IWishIwasRad]

I would like to point out, that the song "Through the fire and flames" is not a hard song at all. People see it on guitar hero and are like "Wow that guitarist must be the best" in reality, that song is entirely played on the top string. Which isnt all that hard. I have to agree that Tom Morello is good though but I still rest with Synyster Gates.

[kumbayasid]

I like Buckethead. That's just me, apparently, but chalk up a vote for the chicken man.

[RandomHeroCali]

Have to say Synyster Gates.

[captainoid]

1. Jimmy Page
2. Angus young
3. (close to second, but not quite) Slash
4. Dimebage Darrel and Randy Rhoads (tie)
5. Nigel Tufnel (I wanna see YOU play a guitar with a violin!)
All of this is my opinion. If you disagree, that's your choice.

And anyone picking Herman Li as the best...you do know he speeds his material up in studio, right? I saw them live with a friend, and his playing was utter shit; by trying to play as fast as possible, he actually went slower.

[Ziggy St. Valentine]

1. Jimmy Page
2. Angus young
3. (close to second, but not quite) Slash
4. Dimebage Darrel and Randy Rhoads (tie)
5. Nigel Tufnel (I wanna see YOU play a guitar with a violin!)
All of this is my opinion. If you disagree, that's your choice.

And anyone picking Herman Li as the best...you do know he speeds his material up in studio, right? I saw them live with a friend, and his playing was utter shit; by trying to play as fast as possible, he actually went slower.

Angus really isn't that great, hes more of a showman, Malcom did most of the work in AC/DC. Dime and Randy are dead, this thread is about the best LIVING guitarist. I do agree with you about Herman Li though.

[captainoid]

Angus really isn't that great, hes more of a showman, Malcom did most of the work in AC/DC. Dime and Randy are dead, this thread is about the best LIVING guitarist. I do agree with you about Herman Li though.

Shit, your right, I was thinking about the 2 fourth place people about ten minutes after I posted. Ah well, my OTHER #4: Eric Clapton. And, while Malcolm did the greater chunk of the writing in AC/DC, Angus has his own very unique style, which inspired me to pick up a guitar and start learning. And it's refreshing to see someone who isn't fooled by DragonForces' studio magic.

[drunkchuck]

Shit, your right, I was thinking about the 2 fourth place people about ten minutes after I posted. Ah well, my OTHER #4: Eric Clapton. And, while Malcolm did the greater chunk of the writing in AC/DC, Angus has his own very unique style, which inspired me to pick up a guitar and start learning. And it's refreshing to see someone who isn't fooled by DragonForces' studio magic.

Dude, I don't know about the average person, but every single guitarist worth a shit knows that Herman Li is way overrated. I mean, DragonForce has got some cool songs, a little repetitive for my taste (all the songs sound the same), but when someone thinks that Herman Li is anywhere near the top it just proves how ignorant they are.

[Erodyne]

Definitely Michael Angelo Batio. He is a legend, even though he isn't well known. Check out some of his vids.

[ShadowCrawler]

Brian May - Queen

Slash - Former lead guitarist of Guns N' Roses and the current lead guitarist of Velvet Revolver.

[DrMassive]

This is foolishness... Everyone knows the best guitarists in the world are John 5 and Buckethead.

[CenturionMonkey]

What about Alexi Laiho from Children of Bodem? He's pretty bad ass.

[OhBilly]

Can I add Victor Wooten to the list? I mean, he may be a Bassist, but that's a guitar too... right? :P http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4dWb-aCWR8U

But Thomas Erak from The Fall of Troy is pretty freaking good. To top it off, he does vocals along with his mad guitar work... get your hands on Manipulator if you wanna know what I'm talking about.

[Zettler]

Hermon Li or Joe satriani.

but I choose my buddy Beardman who owns them all.
He played the solo from free bird behind his head.
and hes only 17.
Im waiting for the day 20 years fom now when I see him on lists like this.

[drunkchuck]

Hermon Li or Joe satriani.

but I choose my buddy Beardman who owns them all.
He played the solo from free bird behind his head.
and hes only 17.
Im waiting for the day 20 years fom now when I see him on lists like this.

Are you serious?

You sound like one of my buddies, one day he told me he'd found the greatest guitarist in the world because he saw some guy playing the intro to Hotel California behind his head....

I forgave him because he's an idiot.

[buckfan]

Hermon Li or Joe satriani.

but I choose my buddy Beardman who owns them all.
He played the solo from free bird behind his head.
and hes only 17.
Im waiting for the day 20 years fom now when I see him on lists like this.

Wow you're stupid. One of my best friends (15 years old) played the Yngwie Malmsteen song "rising force" in front of half of his school. I know he isn't nearly even professional ; but I'm just saying that you mentioning your buddy to be one of the best is wheelchair-retarded.

[Tempest]

Dude, I don't know about the average person, but every single guitarist worth a shit knows that Herman Li is way overrated. I mean, DragonForce has got some cool songs, a little repetitive for my taste (all the songs sound the same), but when someone thinks that Herman Li is anywhere near the top it just proves how ignorant they are.

Thanks for speaking for every guitarist in the world. :) Anyway, I have to post to put Yngwie Malmsteen higher up on my list, because I've seen some of his stuff and it's flat-out amazing.

[r4tm]

Buckethead gets my vote.

[February Stars]

There's several guitarists whom I'd say are great living guitar players. However, I don't think there's only one.

Dave Mustaine
Eric Clapton
Dave Gilmour
John Pertucci
Zakk Wylde

That's all I'll throw out for now. I see a lot of John Frusciante, and I can't really say I'd put him over any of the guitarists I've listen. Not saying he's bad, I'm just saying he's nothing too out of the ordinary. And same with Kirk Hammet, I don't personally think he should be anywhere close to "best living guitarists" status.

[Koukishin]

I like the bucket but i like hermon li better

[Clint]

David Jon Gilmour. He's almost 62 and he's still a good composer.

[Shawman]

synyster gates is wank

paul gilbert ftw

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[Triple J]

Brian Carroll from Buckethead.

He made the song that is physically impossible (unless someone helps) to do on Guitar Hero 2 perfectly. That has to count for something.

[Ice_Mel]

Holy shit, five pages and just one mention of Omar Rodriguez-Lopez. I'm ashamed.

OMAR RODRIGUEZ-LOPEZ.
Seriously, he's the new Frank Zappa.

[haza]

If i choose my favourite then i choose Synyster Gates but if i choose the best i go Herman Li

[Ehrz]

I'd say Steve Vai or Eric Johnson.

[KatchAFyre]

I elect Yngwie Malmsteen, and I am incredibly dissapointed that nobody has mentioned him yet.

I would also elect Buckethead for sheer speed but I guess I can only vote for one.

EDIT: For those who are thinking about getting into Malmsteen, try the song Far Beyond the Sun or the song Black Star.

[noodleman]

definitely Frusciante. eveyone keeps talking about speed, but that isnt all there is to it, Frusciante proves that

[fionnrokz]

JOHN FRUSCIANTE!!

Steve Vai, Slash, Matt Bellamy -(May not be as mind-blowing but still good) and Eric Clapton

[Hickabod]

Tom Morello, simply because of all the different off-the-wall techniques he's used in the past.

[morgazzmic]

True, if we're gonna go on an age to skill ratio, Gates blows about everybody who's ever existed away, I know they were all in high school still when Sounding the Seventh Trumpet was released. So he can't be older than 24 or 25.

True that, man.
Synyster Gates is probably one of the most amazing I've heard. I saw them live and I was blownnnn away. Completely.
And yeah, he's 26 years old.

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[elchileno74]

John Frusciante. End of Story.

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[Stealth Prawn]

Wow, necrotastic.

I gotta agree with you. John Frusciante is so damn amazing. It sounds like he's making sweet, sweet love to his guitar whenever he plays. Plus he's so damn versatile.

A close second would be Buckethead. He's fast yes, but listen to his last album, Electric Tears. That shit is so melodic and nice. He plays with some of the most emotion I've ever heard, and he barely has to move to do it. His subtle head nods and body movements are perfect when he plays live. So little love for Buckethead.

But yeah, Frusciante is probably the best.

[CookiesForBreakfast]

My vote would go to Andy McKee or Joe Satriani if they were on the list, but out of those I'll say Zakk Wylde.

[Soothsayers]

Buckethead. He is simply the best not because he can shread like a mad man (without speeding up the music) but because he can do both shreading (Crime Slunk Scene) and make some fantastic melodies and calming songs (Electric Tears, and Colma).

[AnOddRant]

Paul Gilbert, Alex Lifeson, and i'm surprised no one's mentioned Fredrik Thordendal of Meshuggah yet. He's written some of the most mind-bending riffs ever. I'm also a sucker for Tom Morello, because he's not just your average shred player.

I'd say Devin Townsend too, but he's not technical at all, just a kick ass song writer.