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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Garcia
Fripp
Knopfler, and
Zappa are all favorites, and how about Leo Kottke for sheer innovation.

Favorite is probably Garcia for his ability to intuitively integrate venue acoustics into his sound and thus "play" the whole damn place, not just the instrument!
Agree with John Williams.Nobody mentioned John McLaughlin and Paco De Lucia.Are you feeling al right,people?
Growing up in the 60's ,I've heard and seen alot of great guitarist's,BUT there is one that when I watched him play in their video(The Dance)Fleetwood Mac!! I was just in awe to watch (Lindsey Buckingham) play the guitar.Amazing is just the tip of the iceberg.Do yourself a favor and go rent the video if you never heard him,you won't be dissapointed.
AND
another great guitar player is (Stanly Jordan) with his unusual style.