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?
buscis2
I've seen Buddy Guy live and agree he's incredible, and I also like Ry Cooder. Not considered an "out front" musician, but over the last few years I have really come to appreciate the guitar play and musical talent of The Cowboy Junkies Michael Timmins. Cheers. Craig
Steve Vai. Steve Morse would be a close 2nd, maybe Bill Nelson ....Buscis, it's been my experience that Steve Morses's CD's are just horribly recorded, to the point where i can hardly listen to them. I don't think it's my system, since I have CD's from practically all of the people mentioned above, and theirs don't sound nearly as bad.
YES! all the above plus.. Michael Sheckner, Ronnie Montrose.
I cant pick just one!

And If anyone hasnt heard "G3 live in concert" its a must!

http://towermusic.endeca.com/towermusic?n=0&att=All_Music+g3&cs=g3&csn=3&csr=1&dym=1&cc=USD

ONEPROF...

the version of "For the love of god" that Steve Vai plays
on that CD is pretty incredible. In my opinion he has to
be rated as one of the top "NEW SCHOOL" guitarists.

If i have to pick just one...