Many of the greatest musicians, both past and present, have been tremendously skilled guitarists. But with so much competition in the field, it takes an exceptional electric guitar player to sparkle above the rest.
Here are the 7 incredible guitarists you need to listen to right now.
The innovative style
of Tosin Abasi
ONE
If there’s one person who makes you rethink what a guitar can do, it’s got to be Tosin Abasi. He learned guitar on his own, following in the footsteps of many other guitarists from the ’80s and ’90s who relied on VHS tapes of famous hair metal artists’ lessons.
His use of an eight-string guitar gives his music a strong, distinctive timbre that stretches its depth and range. Abasi provides layers of harmonic possibilities by forging fresh melody paths from these extra strings.
As far as genres go, Tosin’s past bands have been described as “technical metalcore” and “instrumental progressive metal.” Although this musical style goes by several names, technical guitar skill is the defining feature. The talent of musicians like Tosin Abasi is impressive even to those who aren’t huge heavy metal enthusiasts.
The soulful playing of
Derek Trucks
TWO
Derek Truck’s musical career began at the age of nine when he picked up a five-dollar acoustic guitar at a yard sale. But what seemed like a small purchase changed his life in a big way. Trucks became the youngest guitarist named to Rolling Stone’s “100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time” list, turning a weekend hobby into a lifelong passion. Derek Trucks’ association with the Allman Brothers Band significantly influenced his career, showcasing his talents alongside other legendary musicians like Warren Haynes.
Derek Trucks is an exceptional guitarist known for his unique playing style. He connects his guitar directly to his 1964 Fender Super Reverb amplifier, avoiding any processing or effects to achieve the purest sound possible.
Trucks don’t use a pick; instead, he plucks the strings with his fingers, primarily using his thumb, index, and middle fingers and occasionally his ring finger. He developed his distinctive method by constantly tuning his guitar to “Open E” and slightly detuning his low E string (EBEG#Be), a technique he learned from Jimmy Herring.
While slide guitarists commonly use open E tuning for easier chord formation, Trucks has found success as a lead artist without switching to standard tuning (EADGBe).
The technical mastery of Guthrie Govan
THREE
Enter Guthrie Govan, a great guitarist so talented that even a Stratocaster might bow down in reverence. Govan isn’t just a guitarist; he’s the secret sauce added to every riff and melody he touches, leaving your brain shamelessly begging for an encore.
Govan’s musical style is rooted in blues rock, influenced by Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton’s Cream era. While cautious of 1980s “shred” guitar, he admires Steve Vai, Frank Zappa, and Yngwie Malmsteen’s passion. Jazz and fusion, notably Joe Pass, also significantly inspired his playing.
He is known for his work with various bands, including Asia (2001-2006), GPS, The Young Punx, The Fellowship, and Erotic Cakes. He is a renowned guitar teacher, having contributed to Guitar Techniques magazine and taught at the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford and the Brighton Institute of Modern Music.
The unique approach
of St. Vincent
FOUR
When it comes to strumming, Annie Clark, known professionally as St. Vincent, is like the superhero of rhythm. Renowned for her indie and art rock style, she excels in guitar and vocals. St. Vincent’s innovative use of electric guitars contributes significantly to her unique style, blending various genres and showcasing her creative diversity.
She has also collaborated with several musicians, most famously composer and musician David Byrne, in 2012 on their Love This Giant album.
Along with being nominated for Best Alternative Album, Clark’s crowning achievement was her Grammy win in 2019 for Best Rock Song for the title track from her album, MASSEDUCATION. Her first top 10 billboard break was MASSEDUCATION.
The genre-blending skills
of John Mayer
FIVE
John Mayer’s talent for effortlessly blending different musical styles might redefine what it means to be a versatile artist. He incorporates elements of country music into his style, showcasing his genre-blending skills. He is a songwriter and guitarist whose melodic, often soft rock earned him a wide audience and a number of Grammy Awards in the early 21st century.
Two years after releasing Room for Squares in 2001, he made his debut with Heavier Things. Both albums achieved financial success and went multi-platinum. They produced numerous singles, including Grammy-winning tracks like “Daughters” and “Your Body Is a Wonderland.”
Mayer is best known as a sensitive singer-songwriter, but he is also a skilled guitarist who has drawn inspiration from artists like Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Clapton, Buddy Guy, Freddie King, and B.B. King.
He expanded his musical scope from adult contemporary rock to include blues. The John Mayer Trio’s latest album, Try!, showcases their blues-rock sound, which Jimi Hendrix inspires.
The explosive energy
of Nita Strauss
SIX
Nita Strauss is a guitar hero whose name bursts with energy, just like her guitar solos. Not your typical guitarist dozing off in the corner, she is famous for her intense playing and spectacular performances. Her journey from humble beginnings to superstardom is as exciting as her guitar riffs.
Nita is best known as Alice Cooper’s touring guitarist for the past five years, but she has also performed with various artists, including Jermaine Jackson, Femme Fatale, Critical Hit, and The Iron Maidens.
Her talent, captivating stage presence, and dedication to her craft have earned her a remarkable reputation in the music industry. Nita’s skills have also garnered endorsements from several prominent music brands, such as Ibanez Guitars, Marshall Amplification, DiMarzio Pickups, and Monster Energy.
With the release of the Ibanez JIVA10 in January 2018, Nita became the first female to be named an Ibanez signature artist. Her DiMarzio Pandemonium pickups, which have become her trademark, were also released.
The groundbreaking techniques of Kaki King
SEVEN
Kaki King’s groundbreaking guitar-playing techniques are redefining what it means to be a guitarist.
She plays a hand-built Adamas guitar, showcasing a wide variety of fingerpicking and tapping techniques, augmented by pedals and the guitar’s body used as a percussion instrument.
Her works combined elements of Western harmony (jazz, pop, classical) with ways of thinking about and incorporating music from throughout the world.
Using the guitar to create percussion beats, King’s style incorporates slap bass techniques, fret-tapping, sound stacking, and looping. Some have likened her playing style to that of Michael Hedges, while she has acknowledged Preston Reed as an influence.
Acoustic Guitarists to Watch
Acoustic guitarists are those who have mastered the art of playing the acoustic guitar. From the intricate fingerpicking of Tommy Emmanuel to the percussive playing of Andy McKee, these guitarists are pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the acoustic guitar.
One such acoustic guitarist to watch is Molly Tuttle. With her innovative approach to bluegrass music and her incredible technique, Tuttle is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young guitarists on the scene today. Her music is a testament to the power and beauty of the acoustic guitar.
World Famous Guitarists
Legendary Guitarists
Legendary guitarists are those who have made a lasting impact on the music world.
They push the boundaries of what is possible on the guitar and inspire countless others to follow in their footsteps.
From Eric Clapton to Jimi Hendrix, these guitarists have left an indelible mark on the music world.
One such legendary guitarist is Eddie Van Halen. Known for his lightning-fast solos and innovative techniques, Van Halen is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His influence can be heard in countless other guitarists, and his music continues to inspire new generations of players.
Blues and Rhythm Guitarists
Blues and rhythm guitarists are the backbone of many different genres of music. From Buddy Guy’s blues to Keith Urban’s country, these guitarists provide the foundation upon which the rest of the music is built.
One such blues guitarist is Joe Bonamassa. With his incredible technique and ability to incorporate rock and metal elements into his blues playing, Bonamassa is widely regarded as one of the best blues players of his generation. His music is a testament to the power and emotion of the blues.
Rhythm Guitar Greats
Rhythm guitar greats are those who have mastered the art of providing a solid foundation for the rest of the band. From the intricate fingerpicking of James Taylor to the driving rhythms of Keith Richards, these guitarists are the unsung heroes of the music world.
One such great rhythm guitar player is John Fogerty. As the lead singer and guitarist of Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fogerty’s distinctive guitar sound and ability to create memorable guitar riffs have made him a legend in the music world. His music continues to inspire new generations of players.
Electric Guitars For Beginners
Fender Player Stratocaster MN, Tidepool
PERFECT FOR: Intermediate to Advance
FEATURES: Alder body with classic Stratocaster shape
OTHER INFO: 2-point Synchronised Tremolo bridge for increased tuning stability
- Classic Stratocaster sounds
- Easy and effortless playability
- Versatile with wonderful Strat tones
- Handles overdrive effects well
- Stiff tuners
- Slightly sharp nut corners
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 SG1802, Gold Top
FEATURES: Scale Length: 24.75''
OTHER INFO: Maple/Mahogany Body
- Outstanding tonal range suitable for various music genres
- Smooth playability with a comfortable neck profile
- High-quality hardware for tuning stability and durability
- Elegant design with gold hardware adds a touch of sophistication
- Comes with a hard case for secure transport and storage
- Higher price point compared to some other guitars in its class
- Limited color options
- Requires careful maintenance to preserve the gold finish
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™.
SubZero Generation 7 Electric Guitar, 7-String
FEATURES: Scale Length: 27
OTHER INFO: 10-56 String Gauge
- Affordable price point at $177 USD for a 7-string multiscale guitar
- Solid construction with minor finish issues and no major damage
- Quick and easy adjustments with included allen key for leveling strings
- Playable and comfortable, particularly for the price
- Good potential for improvement with upgrades (pickups, locking tuners, pots)
- Minor finish issues and a flat finish, though within expectations
- Dry fretboard, but expected to be resolved with a setup
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™.
The Encore:
Up-and-Coming Guitar Heroes
Adding a shot of espresso to your favorite brew is like listening to fantastic guitarists.
It improves everything. These seven masters have unquestionably cranked up the musical world a notch.
They can play anything, from powerful solos to enchanting acoustic tunes.
Their songs are so good that they might wake the dead or at least get your feet tapping on a Monday morning.
Each artist has a unique sound that you want to listen to over and over. It looks like fairy dust is being sprinkled on the fretboard.
Their creativity isn’t just music; it’s a journey through sound that you should take. And I promise you that you’ll want to change your playlists right away.
Nita Strauss = fire!!! Energy off the charts!
While I respect the inclusion of John Mayer for his genre-blending skills, I find it a bit reductionist not to mention his profound understanding of chordal harmony and his ability to weave intricate melodies seamlessly into pop music context. It’s not just about blending genres; it’s about elevating pop music to new artistic heights.
hey, anyone knows what kind of rig Guthrie Govan runs for his insane tones? always leaves me guessing.
Really vibing with the bit about Derek Trucks’ soulful playing. His slide guitar literally speaks to the soul. Kudos, Lewis Turner, for spotlighting such talent!
Absolutely, Marie232! Trucks’ technique is a gateway to the deeper emotional layers of blues. His vibrato is unrivaled.