Who is your overall favorite guitarist?


At 44 years of age, I personally feel fortunate to have lived in an era along with some of the finest guitarists who have ever lived. I have always had an overwhelming love of music. As I look back to my earlier years of music appreciation (I took formal piano training for 17 years) I remember how my instructor would suggest exposing myself to the many different styles and disciplines of music.

These were such valuable words of wisdom. Considering the fact that this suggestion, more or less, forced me to be more open to musicians other than those that played in strictly rock and roll bands.

Wow, was I surprised to find that I could be as entertained by Chet Atkins and Les Paul as I could be by Ritchie Blackmore or Carlos Santana. Just think about some of the finest from our time. Jimi Hendrix, John McLaughlin, Robin Trower, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Eric Johnson, Steve Howe, Al DiMeola, the list could seem almost endless. All such incredible musicians.

Although it's very hard to pick one person or style in particular, let's remember the key words, "overall favorite".
I would probably have to say that my overall favorite would have to be Steve Morse (from Dixie Dregs fame).

Who is your favorite?
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SRV. Listening is one thing, but to have actually seen him do it(3x)was incredible. That man made a lot sound from one guitar. It literally sounded like 2 or 3 at once.
A recent and drop my jaw discover for me..Bireli Lagrene...check out his Front Page album with Dennis Chambers or live trio Live in Marciac
Alex Lifeson (because of guitar and fisticuffs), Hendrix, Jimmy Page, Clapton, BB King, Stevie Ray Vaughan - in no particuar order - what about Prince? What an innovator...
What? No mention of Albert King! Genuine innovator on guitar. He's the man who started and perfected bending the strings. Also today, how about Jimmy d Lane.
I'd say either Steve Cropper, Bob Mould or Marc Ribot if I'm judging in terms of how much influence they have on me.