I just flipped through the thread and saw that no-one has mentioned Bill Kirchen (once of Commander Cody's Lost Planet Airmen). I'll stick with Gatton, Thompson, Rundgren and Buckingham as my favorites, but Kirchen is worth mentioning. His live shows are amazing and the solo in "Hot Rod Lincoln" (in which he plays several dozen short licks associated with various great players, most of whom are already on this list) is both hilarious and a wonderful musical tribute.
Another name not mentioned is Jesse Gress, the music editor of Guitar Player magazine. He tours with Rundgren on occasion and is awfully impressive.
Marty
Another name not mentioned is Jesse Gress, the music editor of Guitar Player magazine. He tours with Rundgren on occasion and is awfully impressive.
Marty