Stand by for the unforgettable moments of 10 legendary solos that not only melt faces but also teach valuable lessons in technique and expression.
From Eddie Van Halen’s technical prowess to David Gilmour’s dynamic depth, these iconic performances hold the key to unlocking your full potential as a guitarist and elevating your playing to new heights.
The emotional solo in "Comfortably Numb"
by Pink Floyd
ONE
The emotional solo in Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb” is a defining moment in the song and a highlight of the band’s musicianship.
Performed by guitarist David Gilmour, the solo is a powerful and expressive musical passage that conveys a sense of melancholy and introspection.
The solo’s melodic phrasing and soulful tone perfectly complement the song’s themes of isolation and emotional detachment, making it one of the most iconic and memorable guitar solos in rock history.
The technical masterpiece in "Eruption" by Van Halen
TWO
Eruption” by Van Halen is a technical genius that showcases Eddie Van Halen‘s exceptional guitar skills and innovative playing techniques.
The solo is a blistering display of rapid-fire tapping, harmonics, and intricate fretwork that pushed the boundaries of what was thought possible on the electric guitar.
Eruption” has become a defining moment in rock guitar history, influencing countless guitarists and solidifying Eddie Van Halen’s status as a virtuoso and trailblazer in the world of rock music.
The soulful solo in
"Stairway to Heaven" by Led Zeppelin
THREE
The heartfelt solo in “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin is a masterclass in expressive guitar playing, performed by the legendary Jimmy Page.
The solo builds gradually, starting with a gentle and melodic introduction before evolving into a powerful and expressive musical statement.
Page’s use of bends, vibratos, and sustained notes creates a sense of longing and transcendence that perfectly captures the song’s spiritual and introspective themes, cementing “Stairway to Heaven” as one of the greatest rock compositions of all time.
The iconic solo in "Hotel California" by The Eagles
FOUR
The “Hotel California” by The Eagles is a haunting and mesmerizing musical passage that perfectly captures the song’s enigmatic and mysterious atmosphere.
Don Felder and Joe Walsh perform the dual guitar solo, a masterful display of harmonized lead playing. Each guitarist weaves intricate lines that complement and enhance one another.
The solo’s melodic and ethereal quality adds to the song’s sense of unease and ambiguity, making it one of the most iconic and recognizable guitar solos in classic rock history.
The blistering solo in
"Free Bird" by Lynyrd Skynyrd
FIVE
Lynyrd Skynyrd‘s searing solo in “Free Bird” is a tour de force of guitar excellence, showcasing the immense talent of the band’s lead guitarist, Allen Collins.
The solo begins with a melodic and dynamic introduction before exploding into a rapid-fire display of technical prowess, featuring lightning-fast runs, searing bends, and intricate fretwork.
The solo’s intense energy and emotional depth perfectly capture the song’s themes of freedom and liberation, solidifying “Free Bird” as a timeless classic and a staple of Southern rock guitar playing.
The melodic solo in
"Sultans of Swing"
by Dire Straits
SIX
The melodious solo in “Sultans of Swing” by Dire Straits is a testament to Mark Knopfler‘s exceptional guitar skills and musical sensibilities.
The solo is a masterclass in tasteful and expressive playing, featuring Knopfler’s signature fingerpicking style and smooth, fluid phrasing.
The solo’s melodic lines and improvisational flourishes perfectly capture the song’s laid-back, jazz-infused atmosphere. It showcases Knopfler’s ability to craft memorable and emotionally resonant guitar passages that have become synonymous with the Dire Straits sound.
The powerful solo in "November Rain"
by Guns N' Roses
SEVEN
Guns N’ Roses’ “November Rain” has a powerful solo by Slash that shows his guitar mastery and emotional depth.
The solo begins with a melodic and expressive introduction featuring Slash’s signature vibrato and soulful bends before building to a climactic and cathartic release of soaring lead lines and virtuosic runs.
The solo’s intensity and emotional weight perfectly complement the song’s majestic arrangement and Axl Rose’s impassioned vocals, creating a truly unforgettable moment in rock music history that showcases the raw power and artistry of Guns N’ Roses at their peak.
The expressive solo in "Bohemian Rhapsody"
by Queen
EIGHT
The expressive solo in Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a defining moment in the band’s iconic magnum opus, showcasing Brian May’s exceptional guitar skills and creative vision.
The solo, which follows the song’s operatic section, is a powerful and emotional showcase of May’s unique playing style. It features his signature use of harmonics, sweeping arpeggios, and melodic phrasing.
The solo perfectly captures the spirit of “Bohemian Rhapsody” by seamlessly integrating into the song’s complex structure and creating a sense of drama and urgency, cementing its status as one of the most iconic and beloved guitar solos in rock history.
The dynamic solo in
"Mr. Crowley"
by Ozzy Osbourne
NINE
The iconic solo in “Mr. Crowley” by Ozzy Osbourne, performed by guitarist Randy Rhoads, is a true masterpiece of neo-classical metal.
Rhoads’ guitar playing showcases his incredible speed, precision, and melodic sensibility as he effortlessly navigates through a series of complex runs, arpeggios, and tapping techniques. This unforgettable solo has inspired countless guitarists and remains a testament to Rhoads’ immense talent and enduring legacy in the world of rock music.
The virtuosic solo in
"Cliffs of Dover"
by Eric Johnson
TEN
The awe-inspiring solo in “Cliffs of Dover” by Eric Johnson is a true testament to his unparalleled guitar mastery. Johnson’s fluid and expressive playing seamlessly blends technical prowess with emotional depth as he effortlessly navigates through intricate melodies, lightning-fast runs, and soaring bends.
This legendary solo showcases Johnson’s unique ability to create a vivid musical landscape that transports listeners to the majestic cliffs of Dover, solidifying his status as one of the greatest guitarists of all time.
Bonus: Electric Guitars Good for Beginners
LA Electric Guitar by Gear4music, White
FEATURES: Scale Length: 25.5"
OTHER INFO: 3x Single Coil, pickup configuration
- Striking white finish for an elegant and stylish appearance.
- Balanced and rich sound suitable for various playing styles.
- Affordable quality.
- Effortless tuning with precise tuning mechanisms.
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue during long sessions or performances.
- Basic accessories may require additional purchases for a complete setup.
- Glossy finish attracts fingerprints, requiring frequent cleaning.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Yamaha Pacifica 012, Black
FEATURES: Scale Length: 25.5"
OTHER INFO: 0.009-0.042
- Cosmetically well-painted with no noticeable blemishes.
- Decent sound quality for its price range.
- Good fretwork with no sharp edges.
- Versatile pickup configuration with a humbucker and two single coils.
- Affordable entry-level option for beginners.
- Plinky higher note frets, indicating potential setup issues.
- Neck feels rough and unfinished.
- Limited potential for ultra-low action due to setup constraints.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Fender Player Telecaster MN, Black
FEATURES: .009-.042 Gauges)
OTHER INFO: Player Series Alnico 5 Tele Single-Coil pickups
- Well-balanced bridge pickup, excelling with gain.
- Highly playable satin-finished neck.
- High-quality construction.
- Pickups may exhibit noise in specific situations.
- Facing stiff competition from other Telecaster models in the same price range.
When you click ‘Check Price’, you’ll see there are loads of great places to buy this item. Our personal favorite is Sweetwater for the US, and Thomann and Gear4Music for the UK & Europe.
They are the largest music retailers, with excellent customer service, competitive prices, really fast shipping, and the longest guarantees.
The professional musician who wrote this article combined many things,
from the product build, manufacturer’s reputation through to feedback
from other users, to create our famous TedScore™.
Elevate Your Playing:
Iconic Solos
Learning from these 10 legendary guitar solos can provide invaluable insights and inspiration for aspiring guitarists looking to improve their skills and expand their musical horizons.
By analyzing the techniques, melodic phrasing, and emotive expression employed by these iconic guitarists, players can gain a deeper understanding of what makes a solo truly great and apply these lessons to their playing.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, immersing yourself in the artistry and creativity of these legendary solos can help you unlock your full potential as a guitarist and push your playing to new heights.
Oh great, another list of the same solos we’ve seen a million times. Don’t get me wrong, they’re classics for a reason, but come on, there’s more to guitar solos than ‘Stairway to Heaven’ and ‘Free Bird’. Ever heard of indie music, Lewis Turner? Might be time to expand the horizons and give some new blood a shot. Just a thought.
While the selection of solos in this article is undeniably iconic, I’m surprised by the omission of any solos from the progressive rock genre, which boasts some of the most technically elaborate and emotionally compelling solos in music history. For example, the works of Rush or Yes feature guitar solos that are as deserving of praise as those mentioned. This oversight might lead one to question the criteria used for selecting these solos. Was it based purely on popularity, the technical skill required, or the emotional impact of the piece? A more diverse representation could provide a richer picture of the guitar solo’s role in rock music. That being said, Lewis Turner’s insights are appreciated, albeit they could benefit from a broader perspective.
hey, anyone thinks ‘Eruption’ by Van Halen is like, super hard to learn? been tryin but it’s tough lol
JD, keep at it! ‘Eruption’ definitely has a steep learning curve but it’s such a rewarding piece to master. Start slow, focus on getting each note right, and gradually increase your speed. You got this!
Just dove into this article, and man, the way ‘Comfortably Numb’ was described just brought back a flood of memories. There’s something about Gilmour’s solo that’s just hauntingly beautiful, isn’t it? The way it can mirror feelings of isolation while simultaneously wrapping you in a sort of warm nostalgia is pure art. Makes you wonder how the process of crafting something so emotionally charged begins. Lewis Turner did a fine job capturing the essence, but would have loved more on the backstory of its creation!