187 Responses to “Top 100 Greatest Guitar Solos”

1. 1 Woody Jan 23rd, 2007 at 5:45 am

   This list is horrible. First and foremost, where the hell is Buddy Guy. He’s only the greatest blues musician of our generation but he can’t make the list.

   Not to mention that the list is cookie-cutter. All classic rock and metal. Not one indie band, nothing from the last couple of years. MMJ, DBT, Ben Harper, White Stripes not to mention that Warren Haynes is nowhere to be found on this list. Plus there’s not one mention of the Boss.

   Lastly, how the hell do you put this list together. A more apt name should have been 100 Most Well Known guitar solos.

2. 2 Woody Jan 23rd, 2007 at 5:47 am

   I also enjoy the one mention of Jerry. Its as if he felt compelled to mention him so he wouldn’t catch shit from Deadheads, and could only remember hearing Truckin’ on the radio a couple of times.

3. 3 Anonymous Jan 23rd, 2007 at 1:01 pm

   Where’s the Boss?!? What are you, f@$%ing nuts?

   It’s “Greatest Guitar Solos”, not “some moron standing with a guitar that he can’t even play and mumbles his words” list.

   Stinksteen sucks and that’s the list he should be on, “suckiest guitar players.”

4. 4 oz Jan 23rd, 2007 at 4:44 pm

   Wow. There’s a lot of anger in Anonymous.

5. 5 Woody Jan 23rd, 2007 at 5:17 pm

   Easy fella. If the solo from a Jacko song can make it than so can The Boss.

6. 6 Tacos Jan 23rd, 2007 at 5:31 pm

   Lists like these are going to get people pissed. It is impossible to make a subjective list like this, without everyone throwing in their 2 cents.

   I challenge HearYa.com to make a better list.

   I am not saying this list is perfect (or even that good), I just think it is impossible to please nearly anyone when making these kind of things.

7. 7 Tacos Jan 23rd, 2007 at 5:53 pm

   Instead of greatest solo’s, lets see a list of the Top 100 Indie* songs by HearYa.com.

   For a definition of Indie please refer the post “Commercial Success Reminds Me of a Sloppy Makeout”

8. 8 Hope Shore Jan 23rd, 2007 at 11:56 pm

   Thanks for the list. Had fun reminiscing these top guitar artists.

9. 9 Woody Jan 24th, 2007 at 5:59 am

   Tacos, those are solid points. It is a subjective list. My biggest problem with the list is the perceived lack of effort.

   There is barely anything from the last 10 years. Whether I like the act or not, I find it hard to believe that there hasn’t been a solo worth a damn in 10 years. To the best of my knowledge the latest songs on the list are from Pantera, Radiohead and Rage and they are all from appx. 10 years ago.

   Maybe Sting wrote this list. Maybe this guy doesn’t like any new music. I just find it hard to take serious when the last 10 years are left off as if they haven’t happened.

10. 10 Tacos Jan 24th, 2007 at 9:32 am

    You are totally right Woody, it is ridiculous. This post reminded me of a conversation I had with my buddy about how guitar magazines are getting more and more commercial. To find a page without an add, or a real article on a modern band I like, is as hard as finding a music video on MTV.

    To me it is like the current state of the radio. If you set your expectations for good music as low as possible, it might actually surprise you every now and then.

    I was serious about the list of Indie songs. I realize I wrote it in kind of a pissing contest way, sorry about that, but I think it would be cool to have the HearYa.com community compile a list of say the “50 Indie tracks you must hear - in no particular order”.

11. 11 Woody Jan 24th, 2007 at 2:45 pm

    Alright Tacos. you’re on. give us a week or so to pop out a 100 great indie songs in no order.

12. 12 wharfrat Jan 26th, 2007 at 1:58 pm

    i concur with woody. and what no peter green or rory gallagher?

13. 13 DJ Jan 27th, 2007 at 10:36 pm

    This list sucks!!!!

    there are no solos from iron maiden, judas priest, and there is only 1 AC/DC solo on here. You guitarworld bums need to listen to new stuff and look into good classics. all im seeing in led zeppelin, Van halen, and other popular nitwits!!! wheres the real good solos?????

14. 14 DJ Jan 27th, 2007 at 10:40 pm

    Now I am a music fan and none of those songs are bad. I mean I love Led Zep., Halen, and all of those songs, but they could have picked better.

15. 15 Kevin Graver Jan 28th, 2007 at 2:49 pm

    I got into a discussion with a guy up here about this list. Now, though we did disagree, I had to concede on a few points. Yes, not much of the music on the list was written in the past 10 years. However, I feel as though the solo has become a tired music device since then. Most songs on the radio had to have a solo to hold listeners’ attention. Recently, with “pop” music becoming so repetative and vacuous, the backlash has caused “indie” music to create increasingly complex and complicated music without the use of solos. The amount of different time signatures, counter melodies, and rhythmic complications has increased dramatically. I think its fine that most of the solos are from a time when they seemed to be the qualifier of what a “good” song was, but now the qualifications have changed. Different things make “good” songs

16. 16 oz Jan 28th, 2007 at 9:02 pm

    Great comment and I’d have to agree. Every once in awhile, I hear a great guitar solo, but they surprise me these days. I remember listening to music in the 80’s and 90’s, holding my breathe, waiting for the guitar solo. “Listen, no not yet…just wait…CC DeVille is going to rock your world, here it comes…Ahhh”

    There are very few moments like that today, outside of blues music. I think its a blessing. The guitar god is dead. I prefer stellar songwriting.

17. 17 Woody Jan 29th, 2007 at 2:02 pm

    Kevin, that is an excellent point and one I am willing to live with, and embrace, but I have to believe that something out there would have to make this list. I know that DBT and MMJ have a few decent solos to speak of.

    Wharfrat, nice catch on Rory Gallagher.

18. 18 Sam Jan 31st, 2007 at 11:44 am

    Cmon guys, this is list is not SO bad but where are the very best solo ?

    like songs of Dream Theater, Malmsteen, Jason Becker
    Paul Gilbert, Symphony X, Stratovarius, Blind Guardian, Eric Johnson….

    SO this list contain good songs but not the best, for sur !!!

19. 19 Reaper Feb 20th, 2007 at 12:15 am

    WHAT! wheres Children of Bodom on here? you cant have a list of the greatest guitar solos without some bodom! and im sure that Cradle of Filth had better guitar solos then Kiss….screw kiss…

20. 20 ktbhayrhwngiahuinyua Feb 25th, 2007 at 6:54 am

    ‘Machine Gun’ deserves to be top three. for sure. ‘Comfortably Numb’ is the best by far. I would have ‘Stairway To Heaven’ at more like #5. “All Along The Watchtower’ is a top five as well.

    1. Comfortably Numb (David Gilmour, Pink Floyd)
    2. What God Wants, Part Three (Jeff Beck, Roger Waters)
    3. Machine Gun (Jimi Hendrix, Band Of Gypsys)
    4. All Along The Watchtower (Jimi Hendrix, The Jimi Hendrix Experience)
    5. Stairway To Heaven (Jimmy Page, Led Zeppelin)

21. 21 Gabriel Feb 28th, 2007 at 12:14 pm

    This list is Crap, it seems like the “Top 100 most POPULAR solos” tahn the best. Where are Michael angelo Batio’s “No Boundaries” or Freight train with the Quad guitar, or Dragonforce’s “Through the Fire and Flames”. Iron Maiden had better solos than some listed here as well as Judas Priest like in Electric eye or Exciter. Children of Bodom has awesome solos. And there are many other guitarists that haven’t been listed!

22. 22 Jake Mar 2nd, 2007 at 12:06 am

    1. Floods- Dimebag Darell
    Nuff Said

23. 23 sipa Mar 5th, 2007 at 1:12 am

    96. Honky Tonk Women from Let It Bleed album doesn’t exist. On that album (1969) a country version of that song is named ‘Country Honk’. There is Single at that time with studio version of HTW and Live version from ‘Get Yer Ya-Ya’s Out!’ album (1970. Which one is no96 on this list?

24. 24 Mississippi Sheik Mar 6th, 2007 at 3:48 am

    Whilst not the greatest of lists - no Rory for starters, its not bad for bringing back the memories. Thought there would be at least one Lizzy track as well. Not to mention where is the “great” solo in Bohemian Raspberry, a great song though but the solo - NO!

    With reference to some of the comments about missing artists, great technical abilities and ott flashiness (quad guitars etc) do not make great solos.

25. 25 yacobilt Mar 14th, 2007 at 4:17 pm

    not a bad list, but where is 25 or 6 to 4. not the best but in there some where.

26. 26 PAGE_FAN Mar 14th, 2007 at 4:41 pm

    Good job on the stairway to heaven being #1, its true, its the greatest song that will ever be written. The rest isn’t that great though, there should be more steve vai, and maybe even some buckethead.

27. 27 MikeCar62 Mar 16th, 2007 at 1:46 pm

    My only comment would be to point out the two or three seconds of stunned silence that is noticeable at the end of Michael Schenker’s magnificent solo in the song ‘Love to Love’ included in the UFO’s Live album ‘Strangers in the Night’.
    Those people had just been witness to one of the most incredible guitar solos in the history of Rock.

28. 28 Rocco Mar 16th, 2007 at 3:20 pm

    Ok reaper y would cradle of filth and children of Bodom be on this list sure they have good solos but they dont go along with the bands on the list. And wheres tiptons painkiller solo that should be on here

29. 29 Rocco Mar 16th, 2007 at 3:23 pm

    AC/DC solos sucks they sound all the same and Angus young just improvises and plays random shit like hes good i like AC/DC but im not a huge fan

30. 30 Rocco Mar 16th, 2007 at 3:24 pm

    Wheres the Judas Priest?

31. 31 Brian Mar 17th, 2007 at 1:05 am

    Not a single Buckethead song in the top 100? Well as it says in the disclaimer “These rankings should be representative of the thoughts and opinions of Guitar World’s readership.” As has been stated before, it is just a most well known list. Buckethead is not nearly as well known as all of the above mentioned which is a shame because not only can he play fast with the best of them, he can compose good music that can actually touch the soul.

32. 32 chris Mar 21st, 2007 at 3:56 pm

    I could definatly see why u would be angry about this list when u say they have no artists in the past ten years.. this issue of guitar world however this came out april 1998 this being 9 years ago.i do however agree that even at the point and time that it was written it was an unjust list

33. 33 VegeM8 Mar 25th, 2007 at 1:02 am

    No Roy Buchanan!!! … go figure.

34. 34 Tommy Mar 25th, 2007 at 3:21 am

    I think that the top list is pretty good, but the rest…..
    I mean come whats up with putting Little red Corvette on 64,
    then they put Purple Haze on 70????
    so the Solo on Purple Haze was worse than the solo on Little red corvette,
    or Van Halens arguably second greatest solo “Beat It”, behind the lame ass solo of “Little Red Corvette”?
    I mean no offence but even I can play the Little Red Corvette Solo without struggling, but the Beat it solo and the Purple Haze solo are way harder to play.
    maybe this is only my opinion but they’ve made a huge mistake on that one.

35. 35 J Mar 28th, 2007 at 5:40 pm

    This list is blasphemous. You’ll kiss ass to guitarists like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton but only contain three Metallica(Kirk Hammet) guitar solos. You forgot the mention songs like “Tornado of Souls”, or “Hangar 18″ from Megadeth. Their is two of the most complex guitar tracks ever but you must find them too hard rock. How can you include Prince or Kurt Cobain, two mediocre guitarists. Working Man by Rush is one of the hardest songs to perform and you put it at 94? You fill the list with the popular guitarists and their most popular songs instead of actually listening. This list is terrible and is simply a list of mediocrity yet popularity.

36. 36 andrew Mar 29th, 2007 at 6:50 pm

    The list is good for someone who is trying to get the idea of a great solo but it is not really great. First off, I mentioned this before, Kurt Cobain is a great song writer, not a great guitar. I have been attempting to play a guitar for a side hobby for a few months and when I found out that Heart Shape Box was on guitar hero 2 and it had is as more difficult as Danzig Mother I proved to my friends that John Christ is a better guitar player than Kurt Cobain buy picking up the guitar and playing Heart Shape Box after playing guitar for three months, his guitar playing is nothing but 4 to 5 chords with little different sounds due to change in the amp. so his stuff is really easy to play so none of his solos should even be on the list. Jeff Beck is once again underrated, to me he is the best guitar player of all time and is the reason why I am playing guitar. He only has one solo though at number 99 on the list, what about songs like Beck Bolero, or Freeway Jam, or Shape of Things, he is one of the best of all time. And where is Cowboys From Hell, that riff is almost impossible to play along with the solo, Dimebag (R.I.P.) is awesome. So the list is ok but get rid of Cobain and add more Beck it is more of a list of the greatest guitar solos of well known songs, for a good list look at DigitalDreamDoor.com, and with list like this one has to be a little bias so Stairway to Heaven is going to be 1 because a lot of people like Page and Led Zep, but my number 1 is Comfortably Numb than One.

37. 37 Stoney Mar 29th, 2007 at 7:08 pm

    These list are usually placed as filler between lessons, interviews, and tablature inside most of the Guitar magazines. The ads for new gear tend to become overwhelming (especially when it’s some shitty pedal that they can’t get any musicians to endorse and are forced to scour the streets of L.A. for pretty people who lack the committment to learn to play) so every once in a while they make up some sort of article that makes them sound like an officiating voice inside the music world. Now, the important thing to remember, is that the guys who are editing these magazines probably play music and didn’t make it big, or are journalists who are die hard rock fans who wanted to be involved anyway they could.

    Do they believe in this list, probably not. And I’m certain that the arguements, namecalling, votes, and (most likely) fistfights in the GuitarWorld conference rooms were far more intense than our cheezy blogs or forums.

    Do I think that Buddy Guy should have been on the list…FUCK YES! Is it appauling that nothing from the last ten years is on this list…my opinion, NO! In order to be in the Rock Hall of Fame a song has to stand a test of time, and it’s alot more than ten years! I think VooDoo Child (Slight Return) from Hendrix should be booted for Stevie Ray Vaughn’s…but I think that the 15 minute VooDoo Chile of Electric LadyLand should beat out all of Jimi’s other works. I think Cortez the Killer is a way better song than Hotel California. I think the Beatles should be removed from the list on account of their several years as a boy band. Why were’nt live cuts included in the list. Claptons version of Stormy Monday makes my brain fall on the floor. And if you want to talk about live cuts…Dazed and Confused from The Song Remains The Same Movie…Smoke a Jay and watch that…then try to imagine why anyone in the world has never heard of Led Zeppelin. I think Lazy from Purple should be in the top ten…now you think I’m insane……but that’s the beauty of music.

    So many different opinions, and each one of them can be justified. Why, because it’s art. Music is art. And art that requires actual developed skills and talent. (Unlike the Salvador Dali exhibit which rings in a 9.9 on my “This-is-the-dumbest-thing-I-have-ever-seen-O-Meter”)

    So, will an accurate Greatest solo, bands, guitarist, album…etc list ever be made that satisfies everyone…or even minimizes the arguements that follow suit of their release…. sure, the same day that Rap dies as hard as disco did.

38. 38 sweet guitarist Apr 2nd, 2007 at 6:50 am

    anyone who thinks that this list is retarded is a dumbass. it was probably done as a poll of some sort so of course its not going to appeal to everyone. i would want a red hot chili peppers song on there but i got over it so all you assholes who are complaining that some you like isnt on there should go die!

39. 39 Dick Phallus Apr 6th, 2007 at 4:08 pm

    I agree with everyone that says buckethead should be on here. http://www.digitaldreamdoor.com/pages/best_guitarsolo.html

40. 40 Jammin Apr 16th, 2007 at 11:52 am

    Why could you have the Knack on there “MY SHORANA”
    That song has a hard solo! Besides all the songs you’ve listed were easy!

41. 41 df101 Apr 25th, 2007 at 11:12 am

    “through the fire and flames” by dragonforce….listen to that shit, then you will hear a true solo…not this crap of old druggies just slamming on a guitar

42. 42 Illinois Vagrant Apr 28th, 2007 at 1:40 pm

    I hate when people say that nothing from the past ten years can compete with older stuff…that’s just simply untrue.

    Some of the musicians on the scene (mainstream or underground) are just as great if not better than the older guitarists. Different styles, different genres, but talent is undeniable.

    By the way - this list kind of sucks. Where is Dream Theater? Where is “The Sleep” by Pantera? Instead you put Kurt Cobain? Has he EVER soloed? Please. Rewrite this, ASAP.

43. 43 Steve Apr 30th, 2007 at 4:32 am

    No matter what you guys say, this list will not be perfect and your opinions are not the only ones that matter. I bet if everyone who grudged against this list made their own, no one’s list would be liked by everyone.

44. 44 ajit May 2nd, 2007 at 4:50 am

    Recently Buddy Guy was in India and he played some stuff…blew my mind completly….ohh man some music that guy….i would anywhere in the world to hear him……i cudnt believe my luck that i got oppurtunity to hear him……

45. 45 S o c r a t e s ® May 3rd, 2007 at 5:35 pm

    WTF!!!!!!!
    and where is BUCKETHEAD!!!!!!!!!!

46. 46 James May 9th, 2007 at 12:27 am

    Hmm… I think we all know the obvious ones. But I agree with all the angry Buckethead fans. He can shred like a motha-fucka, oh and did we mention feeling and soul. Here are some songs that should be on that lil list they call “GREATNESS”.

    Buckethead- Nottingham Lace (Just reminds me off a less sloppy Hendrix with better techniqe)
    Buckethead- Soothslayer (Step aside Gilmour share the spotlight)
    Buckethead- Big Sur Moon (If you like Eruption you will like this)

47. 47 Zach May 9th, 2007 at 9:56 am

    THIS SHITTY LIST NEEDS GEORGE LYNCH….NOW…bitch..

48. 48 niko May 15th, 2007 at 6:12 pm

    the best guitar solo is comfortably numb.Look for that song in the concert PULSE.

49. 49 Mad B May 22nd, 2007 at 10:19 pm

    There’re many popular songs up there but best… I don’t think so but the biggest let down in my opinion is no Buckethead. Big B may be insane but artistry with a guitar is as stellar as any other guitarist ever. He packs so much into a song it is unreal. No Meta Matic, Soothsayer, King James, Nottingham Lace, Stick Pit, Angel Monster, Whitewash, Speedmetal, Baseball Furies, Well,Well,Well, Wishing Well, Fountains of the Forgotten, Cannibal Holocaust and on and on. No single Big B song, sad, just sad. Another list based on popularity instead of actual talent and skill, sad.

50. 50 Lady KAT Swings May 24th, 2007 at 12:28 am

    The greatest guitar solo ever…Not many have heard it……But They soon will……Jordan Rivers one of the greatest guitar players in the world from Rock,Blues and Gospel music ……..listen to the song on his CD called Electric Son Rise………I predict movie themes of this………it’s pur….r…r…fectly perfect.The greatest solo I ever heard. So maybe you don’t believe me ?…check him out……C ya Lady Kat

51. 51 synyster gates is awesome May 24th, 2007 at 8:31 pm

    I know this list is almost 10 years old and most of there songs wern’t out yet but here are some some with great solos to check out : Sidwinder, Second Heartbeat - Avenged Sevenfold, Six, The Air I Breath - All That Remains, Open Your Eyes - Alter Bridge, Take Me Home - Iron Savior, Through The Fire And The Flames - Dragonforce, Rising Force - Yngwie Malmsteen.

52. 52 The Destroyer May 27th, 2007 at 1:34 am

    To put in simple terms: THE LIST SUCKS! I know there are a lot of good guitarists in that list, but what the lsit lacks is its title :GREATEST SOLOS. I mean, where is Megadeths ‘Hangar 18″ and “Tornado of Souls” ,Pantera’s “Walk” and “Domination” and Iron Maidens “Trooper” and “2 minutes to midnight” ? Is Guns n’ Roses even metal ? The list is a pure disgrace to metal fans throughout the world.

53. 53 hero rocker May 28th, 2007 at 8:00 am

    avenged sevenfold

54. 54 G5 Jun 3rd, 2007 at 10:19 am

    weres buckethead

55. 55 trousers Jun 6th, 2007 at 9:45 pm

    this list is a wee bit of bullshit where is iron maiden? only 1 acdc? a lot of soloss on this list suck. specialy nirvana kurt cobain cant play for shit and they dont have solos. this list is all wrong. oh and btw try slipknots pulse of the maggots solo.awesome.

56. 56 Kevin Jun 7th, 2007 at 5:13 am

    estupid = stupid on the internet? thats what i’m gonna go with from now on.

    also, yes, bad list, morons, so on and so forth, but impossible germany definitely goes on the list in my mind.

57. 57 drew Jun 7th, 2007 at 8:37 pm

    i remember seeing this list a while back and felt really frustrated with it. i love music alot, especially great rock and roll. many would agree that Hendrix is the best guitarist ever but i feel he should have more solos on the list. Bold as Love is without a doubt top 50 of all time. Hey Joe live from Winterland in ‘68 will definitely melt your brain. Are You Experienced with the backwards playing is way ahead of its time. I was disappointed to see blues legends like Buddy Guy, Freddie King, Albert King and many others with nothing on the list.

58. 58 sk8nchance Jun 9th, 2007 at 7:05 am

    this is the greatest solo’s thing ….. the only problum is …. that u need more of van halen ozzy osborn jimi henderx ac\dc and more of led zep thats all it was great

59. 59 Columbo Jun 10th, 2007 at 1:05 am

    Lost credibility by being in a mainstream group, but Neal Schon from Journey is constantly underrated. When Carlos Santana asks you to join his band when you’re a 15 year old you have to be pretty damn good. Craig Chaquico from Starship, Gary Richrath from REO Speedwagon. All cursed by “success”.

60. 60 135789 Jun 10th, 2007 at 8:15 am

    The list didn’t miss a thing dumbasses, first off these are some of the particularly greatest solos, thats why they’re the most well known. second, stop crying because they didn’t put all those boring shredders on the list (metal etc.). For the people saying that they can’t believe there is nothing in the past ten years, ur dumbasses. have u even heard music in the last ten years? there are no solos, let alone good ones. john frusciante(amazing) is the only person worthy in the last ten years to have a solo up here, but its not like he even needs it. oh, and for those of you complaining about lack of varitety, the only other music with guitar solos is jazz,(i see one on the list right now actually) which is great, but nothing stands out. You need to closely re-examine this list if you criticise it, because it is spot on. its pretty much perfect

61. 61 synyster gates is awesome Jun 13th, 2007 at 6:12 pm

    ok 135789 before you start callin people dumbasses and talking shit about metal and how no metal or guitarist or new guitarist can solo and they all suck, maybe you should actually listen to some metal songs because avenged sevenfold, pantera, iron maiden, buckethead, dragonforce, slipknot, shadows fall, megadeth, yngwie malmsteen all have amazing solos.

62. 62 Jerry Sherry Jun 20th, 2007 at 3:03 am

    I agree also with Lady Kat Swings above……Jordan Rivers is maybe the worlds best guitar player. AWESOME om acoustic and electric.
    Rock,Blue’s,classical,jazz he can do it all.
    Thanks Jerry

63. 63 Hey Dude Jun 20th, 2007 at 3:08 am

    Right On Dude, Jordan Rivers. He’s a hip cat of guitar.Even if he is from gospel.Talk about talent.You are right he has got it all.
    I’ve heard him on Rhaspody for the first time 2 weeks ago.And on radio driving through Washington D.C.
    C ya Dudes……

64. 64 Freddie(TRue metal FAn) Jun 28th, 2007 at 1:42 am

    You guys are dumb this list and the other list is stupid….Sttairway to heaven is a good song but the solo isnt even fast…and master of puppets??…that song is almost a compete solo itself should be way higher…And Hendix’s star spangled bane is close to the middle??…Dumb…that was a work of art…Its hard as hellto play…it has no words just jimi being jimi he should own mst of the top 50…and whee is michaelangelo batio?….he is a recarnation of jimi hendrix…better than jimi…faster than any body on the list…I guess you people are amused with really long bends and alot of pull offs…Eruption should be atleast 5 or 6

65. 65 Sherwin Jun 28th, 2007 at 1:05 pm

    To all you the guys above me who have posted their comments in response to the solos pls stop your whining. I personally dont agree with the list myself, but i think everyone got their own personal taste of what a good solo is.

66. 66 jared Jul 9th, 2007 at 6:16 pm

    Wheres john frusciante? steve vai’s “building the church” is a good one. eddie hazel’s “super stupid” Frusciante’s solo in “i could have lied” or “if you have to ask” both are improv and beautiful.

67. 67 LAITH Jul 11th, 2007 at 3:59 am

    Dear all ,

    i think that kirk hammett have the best performance THE WORLD ! WHY ?
    the way he play with the guitars solos you hearing something send you from this world to onther, to imagine a new hope.this is my opinion with this,wishing a good life to all.

68. 68 Dan Jul 14th, 2007 at 3:54 pm

    I keep looking for Bachman-Turner Overdrive’s “Blue Collar” I’m not finding it. It’s hard to take these lists seriously.

69. 69 Johnny Lightfoot78 Jul 14th, 2007 at 11:48 pm

    SHOCKING NEWS!! but True___________I was watching PBS broadcasting, a few weeks back. And guess who I saw play 12 songs. Jordan Rivers. This man can play. And rightly deserves a top 5 ranking. He’s far better than I thought possible. I’ve heard the stories but untill you hear and see him…..then you just don’t realize, just how good this guy is.He is possibly one of the best guitar players anywhere today. If he went up against the best. I think he would be 2nd or 3rd world wide. I’ve seen every top guitar master. This guy is way ahead of Clapton. Maybe Stevie Ray was better.If Stevie was, it’s not by much, I’m trying to think who alive today is better. Jordan has speed, and style for rock-jazz,blues. I can’t see anyone being better than him who is a-live today.His acoustic guitar is the best I’ve heard ever. And his electric is guitar playiny is top 5 for sure.He’s an all around genuis. When you get a chance watch PBS maybe he’ll be back on again soon.He’s real fun to watch,you’ll hold your breath watching his moves.He even un-nerved me a bit, he is truly great.
    Oh I found him on Rhasody.com , I type in Jordan Rivers and it pulled him right up.
    thanks Johnny Lightfoot

70. 70 nelly bochem Jul 16th, 2007 at 4:53 am

    Ik wil weten waar je deze cd Top 100 greatest guitar solos kunt kopen of bestellen. Ik wil gaarne bericht van jullie. groetjes Nelly Bochem

    Mijn E.mail:p.bochem2@chello.nl

71. 71 Lee Wanfu - Japan Jul 16th, 2007 at 9:42 pm

    Hi, please forgive my english, I from Japan.
    I very happy to go concerting last weekend and hearing Mr Jordan Rivers play in my home town here.
    After concert. In front of 1500 people we asked mr Rivers to dinner. He excepted,and very nice person, he make people feel good.
    I think he outstanding singer,and best guitar man I ever heard.So exciting for me was that night.I never forget for my life time.He great guitar master,but more than guitar hero,he great man.And me new friend.
    Thank you very kindly
    Lee Wanfu - Japan

72. 72 Jason Daniels Jul 16th, 2007 at 9:50 pm

    Stevie Ray Vaughan was the greatest, and is the greatest. There will never be anyone better.
    Jordan Rivers, who cares about him,he’s just a gospel guitarist-singer, I have no respect for that. So what if he plays Rock and blues gospel.It doesn’t matter.
    No one wants to hear gospel music.
    He needs to give it up, he can’t paly with the big boys, no gospel guy can.
    So flat out………….
    Stevie Ray Vaughan Is the King.He’s the man !! Always will be because- I said so. And he’s the best.
    Jason

73. 73 Mark Jul 22nd, 2007 at 3:26 pm

    Below is info I found on Jordan Rivers, on the internet of a college music professor Dr. Timmons talking about Jordan Rivers____________________________________________

    It seems Mr Jordan Rivers,waded into the Jordan River with his electric and acoustic guitars. And soon after cause the Jordan River Dispute.Now the river flows into his back yard, as he becomes more well known to the world.
    I read on the Internet that Jordan Rivers is of English Royal Blood lines on his fathers side and relatives are from Norway on his mothers side of the family.
    So as I understand he’s not from Israel. So where did his name come from ?
    A friend of mine heard that as a Christian Singer that Jordan Rivers took that name so he could serve the Lord better. But in truth he was already a very well known guitarist and singer, under another name, who had been on radio over the years with his music.
    So…I say all the more power to Jordan Rivers….I guess there’s far worst things humans can do than to serve God.
    So I can’t fault him on the name change.
    Next…Please understand I am a very good college guitar teacher in muisc and theory.So here’s view on his play style.
    As for his guitar playing. I listened to his music for about 2 weeks comparing it to Eric Clapton, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Zakk WYLDE, Jimmy Page, and many others.
    So how good is Jordan Rivers?
    I’ll put it to you this way.
    Without knocking down….or taking away from any other great guitar players in the world…..I’ll just say this.
    Jordan Rivers is one of the best all around lead and Rhythm guitarist in rock,hard rock,blues,jazz.
    He knows lead guitar better than the best. He plays far more than just pentatonic scales , he’s play every major and minor scales and some very difficult chord voicing arrangements.
    His timing and style is sweet as can be. He also sings on the beat or the rhythm, most guitars do not.
    Drummers would love to play with this guy…..His timing is just that good.
    So I do I place Jordan Rivers…..in a List…..well I won’t do that . Everyone has their guitar hero’s….but Jordan Rivers does deserve to be ranked in the TOP 10 of all time.
    So what if he’s a gospel singer, his music is stunning,it shines,It screams WORLD CLASS !!.
    He’s better than the Santana’s of the world, far better.If he was far more well known in the guitar world, who knows. He could be in the top 5 & maybe the best ever. That’s a hard call still because, the buyers of CD’s and music are the ones who should rate him. They are the customers. And gold records are made by the customers……so there it is. Here’s his web site. It’s already been posted all over the Internet any ways…but here it is for those of you searching for Jordan Rivers

74. 74 Jason Jul 26th, 2007 at 3:56 pm

    LQQK at This list http://guitarmagusa.blogspot.com/

75. 75 Callum Whyte Jul 29th, 2007 at 8:22 pm

    Great list! Only one band missing… Megadeth!

    Holy Wars
    Sleepwalker
    In My Darkest Hour
    Hangar 18

76. 76 Woody Jul 30th, 2007 at 12:31 pm

    Skezza,

    Last I checked Buddy Guy or Warren Haynes weren’t members of The Kaiser Chiefs or Killers. I would take either one of them over EVH any day of the weak.

    And how the hell I am insulting Randy Rhoades and Jimmy Page by asking for a more all-inclusive list.

    Wake up and join the 21st centtury. There’s alot good music out there today.

77. 77 Big Fan Aug 1st, 2007 at 5:09 am

    Hey guys wassup.
    I got a few queries I hope you can answer for me:

    1) Why does Led Zeppelin top EVERY list even vaguely related to music? They were a great band but really. That solo in Stairway to heaven was great, but the best ever?

    2) Why is there only 1 mention of Steve Vai??

    3) Why does Hendrix have so many entries in that list?

    4) What is Cobain doing on that list at all?

    5) And where in the blue hell is Michel Angelo Battio, the fastest guitar shredder in history (also the man who trained Tom Morello)? Go search him up on youtube and see what I’m talking about. Battio would easily shame every single name up on that list bar 2 or 3 greats (Steve Vai, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimmy Page)

78. 78 Jimmy Aug 3rd, 2007 at 9:01 am

    I think the solos from Dani California (Red Hot Chili Pep.) and Sweet Home Alabama (Skynyrd) deserve some consideration for a place on this list. Also I would like to point out one that isn’t as well known. The solo from U2’s song “Out of Control” (on first album) is amazing. And it isn’t a “popular” song, at all. I can’t think off the top of my head about any of The Edge’s other solos, but I can’t believe he isn’t here at ALL. HE could be one of the top 10 guitarists of all time. The parts he has to play are very difficult, for the most part.

    Finally, I would like to vouch for a personal favorite. “Doesn’t Remind Me” by Audioslave, has an unbelievable solo, played by Tom Morello, who is already on the list in a couple of places. Though short, in my mind the solo is far better than MANY that are on the list. I think there has been a little oversight as far as recent music (since 1996) is concerned.

    It is tough to make a list of the 100 greatest solos ever when there are so many thousands of solos out there, some not very well known. This is a good list–despite the lack of recent music–except I maintain, the solo from “You Shook Me All Night Long” has no place here. It is short and not even that good. But that song is a classic, which gives it an advantage in the eyes of many readers, etc. That’s why Zeppelin is at the top of every list. While Page is a great guitarist, it would be tough to call him the best ever–but they are just so well known, that’s why they get the votes.

79. 79 KFC Aug 5th, 2007 at 3:36 pm

    Where the heck is buckethead?

80. 80 stewie Aug 11th, 2007 at 7:42 am

    where the hell is buckethead have you herd any of his songs he is extremly talanted , the song jordan blew my mind , name one other person who can move there fingers that fast!!

81. 81 Slash Rocks Aug 13th, 2007 at 5:06 am

    I have one complaint to make. Sweet Child O Mine should be WAY HIGHER!!!! it should be like 10th.apart from that it was pretty good.

82. 82 Slash Rocks Aug 13th, 2007 at 5:08 am

    I have one complaint to make. Sweet Child O’ Mine should be WAY HIGHER!!!! It should be like 10th. apart from that it’s pretty accurate.

83. 83 K-Burty Aug 20th, 2007 at 4:49 pm

    I remember when this list came out. This one, and all the mags’ best-of lists are totally subjective. Like the man said, it’s art, and there’s no accounting for taste! One man’s meat is another man’s poison. I can appreciate the technique and the hours of practice that go into a shred-fest, but if the aesthetic doesn’t do it for you, then who cares? Al DiMiola was one of my favorite players of the 70’s, unmatched for speed, but after a while it sounded like you were listening to a typewriter……(anybody remember what those were?)

    The shredders are totally amazing, but they don’t have broad appeal to the pop masses. I think they are admirably represented by Satch, Vai, and Yngwie, Randy and EVH, Kirk Hammett. Dragonforce is too much….fantastic. They’re so good they’re almost a parody of themselves, but they did come out after this poll.

    We also see that the innovaters are here. All the disciples of Ritchie Blackmore, for example, needn’t be listed if they don’t surpass him with a knockout blow. You don’t need to list legions of tappers when you’ve got EVH up there. Anybody reading this can pull off a Chuck Berry solo, but imagine the minds he blew when he first came out, and the legions that he inspired to pick up the guitar.

    Which brings up again the subject of technique, and speed. If you don’t have much to say, saying it faster doesn’t help. Cobain’s guitar playing was pretty wretched, but that’s the way he liked it, it expressed what he was trying to say. I guess lots of people liked what he had to say…..(?)
    I was really glad to see Neil Young’s Cinammon Girl on there, possibly the best one-note solo ever!

    I was a huge Led Zep fan when they hit….thier first album is still my fave. I later shunned them, mainly cause I didn’t want to be associated with the Qualude-chomping hordes that went to the shows….but man, “Stairway” is perfectly crafted. Tells a complete story that blasts you into the finale of the tune. Same with Clapton’s Crossroads solo, very dramatic, especially when you realize it’s improvised. For all-time well crafted solos…..mini compositions…. I have to go with Hendrix’s Watchtower. Other faves: Larry Carlton on “Kid Charlemagne”, Jerry Garcia on “Know you Rider” from Europe ‘72, or all of “Dark Star”, and just about anything by Michael Bloomfield, especially from “Super Session”. It’s been a long time since I heard anyone in the rock world really sing ion their instrument like those guys.

    And what happened to the Jazz and the Fusion guys? Wes Montgomery, Pat Martino, Jimmy Bruno, Kenny Burrell. John McLaughlin? The country pickers? Albert Lee, Vince Gill, Brent Mason, Jimmy Bryant, Joe Maphis, James Burton, Brad Paisly, Will Ray? I think we need “Top 100″ lists for each category. Classical players…..fuggedaboudit. At the Guitar Congress at Towson Univ in MD a couple of years ago, I and everybody else was crazy to see and hear Marty Friedman, Albert Lee, Andy Summers, Eric Johnson and Jennifer Batten. The players who blew everybody away were the Classical and Jazz guys.

    I think the greatest thing about these polls is the uproar and the mayhem that ensues, as seen on this very same page, The comments are great.
    One thing, I’m really sorry to say that I listened to Jordan Rivers on Real Rhapsody and based on that I have to say that the guy sounds pretty lame.
    His pitch when bending is almost always off. His timing is really bad. The only interesting thing about “Electric Son Rise” is the Talk Box or whatever effect he’s using. His phrasing is totally scatter-brained. I can tell there’s a lot of passion there, which probably makes for a very engaging live show, but I thought the cd was very amateur at best.

    OK, I’m going to go get a life.

84. 84 No Plankspanking Aug 21st, 2007 at 12:50 pm

    Who cares how fast a guy can move his fingers. The list refers to the 100 Greatest Guitar Solos, not the 100 Most Technically Accomplished Solos. Musical content is more important than speed, which is why there is no room for Gilbert, Satriani et al. I these guys could write a half-decent song they might have a chance.

85. 85 Balsbalsbals Aug 22nd, 2007 at 12:52 pm

    bals

86. 86 fetumpsh Aug 26th, 2007 at 11:57 pm

    Other misses:
    Buck Dharma, live version of “Then Came the Last Days of May.”
    Ed Mundell, with either Monster Magnet or Atomic Bitchwax.

87. 87 noddy pocket Aug 31st, 2007 at 3:43 pm

    Hilarious

    A hand me down. Nothing original. Nothing knowledgeable. Lacks soul. A magazine list so I should get over it.

    Jimmy page’s STH wouldn’t even make it into his own top 50. And where is his SIBLY?

    A prophet is not without honour except in his own country. Thus a pauper’s grave awaits the genius of Michael Schenker.

    See you in 200 years maestro. Our ancestors will truly wonder.

    I mean ‘beat it’.  EVH rightly dodged the audition for UFO after MS left. Great guitarist as is Eddie, Lacking Schenker’s sense of melody and soul, he was acutely aware that a few right hand taps on the fretboard could never make up for his own lack of genius.

    I love Radiohead but even Greenwood would be pissing himself

    These list makers are more likely to let others pick up the tabs than learn them.

88. 88 not my real name Aug 31st, 2007 at 7:43 pm

    Is this serious? kirk hammet’s solos in the top 100? I mean… his solos are fun to listen when you are stoned… but they’re quite repetitive… real solos are when you have a certain feeling when you listen to it… half of the solo’s there wouldn’t even be on a top 1000 in my opinion because half of the solo’s are not played with a real or innovative technique… where are the B.B king’s? The Di Meola’s? The Michael Hedges?…

89. 89 not my real name 2 Aug 31st, 2007 at 7:48 pm

    look for guitarists like erik mongrain, or even virtuoso’s like buckethead… at least what they do is unique…

90. 90 Iron Priest Sep 2nd, 2007 at 10:19 pm

    No way!!!!

    Glenn Tipton & KK Downing are the most shocking duo of all time. Solowise and rythmewise all the way.Adrian Smith, Dave Murray & Janick Gers are ripper then any artist on this list. Both of these band sould score every position of this list period.
    If somebody have something to say against that it cause you don’t like real music period

91. 91 Iron Priest Sep 2nd, 2007 at 10:25 pm

    I think that Kirk Hammet suck big time caus the only thing he is able to do is riffing ok and i said just ok.

92. 92 Iron Priest Sep 2nd, 2007 at 10:29 pm

    Sorry but a solo is not just something unique, it is something that you feel deep inside of you and i know what i’m talking about cause learned music all my life and i’m almost 24yrs old.

93. 93 Iron Priest Sep 2nd, 2007 at 10:40 pm

    Glenn Tipton have the most impressive guitar sound of all time. Forget the other exept the one i wrote in an other message.

94. 94 Namki Lee Sep 9th, 2007 at 8:49 am

    Jordan Rivers , is the greatest guitar player ever. He Rocked the building down here in Seattle Last night.
    I’m going to hear him again tonight. This guy is the best Rock -jazz-blues man alive. Never been a guitar player better. His singing is better also than guitar player ever. This guys like a ROCKET exploding,forget Stevie Ray Vaughn, forget Eric Clapton…who are they?
    No one equalls Jordan Rivers. I see he’s on itunes.com has anyone used itunes? does it work well…..I just have to get this guys album.If I can I’ll buy it in person and get him to sign it.
    If not I’ll download it.Maybe I can steel some guitar licks.
    Namki

95. 95 Bob Sep 14th, 2007 at 8:07 pm

    WHY DOESN’T ANYONE GET IT?!?! THE STAIR WAY SOLO SUCKS! THE GREATEST SOLO OF ALL TIME WAS THE ONE IN COMFORTABLY NUMB! WTF?!?!

96. 96 Bob Sep 14th, 2007 at 8:20 pm

    And would it kill ya to add judas priest, mettalica, andre segovia, or gino vinelli. the guitar gods are

    1. Hendrix
    2. Clapton
    3. Glamour
    4. Page
    5. Frampton
    6. Van Halen
    7. Slash
    8. Simon

    Most of them are on there but in the wrong places

97. 97 Fedex73 Sep 16th, 2007 at 3:50 pm

    There is no arguing on first place Stairway’s solo rocks altough i haven’t seen solos of judas priest, maiden,ACDC and other bands that should be there there. The list shows god solos but there is no point in comparing guitarrists since each one has a different style. This list is good, but it could be better in my opinion.

    For me (and this si only a personal opinion) best guitarrists are

    1. JYMMY PAGE/ HENDRIX (i cant put one of them below the other)
    2.CLAPTON
    3.STEVE VAI
    4.JOHN PETRUCCI
    5.DAVID GILMOUR
    6.RITCHIE BLKACKMORE
    7.ANGUS YOUNG

98. 98 halim Sep 19th, 2007 at 4:17 am

    at least they included Guns ‘N’ Roses and Rage Against The Machine in the list. maybe they should make another list with more new-age bands such as Audioslave, A Perfect Circle, and Wolfmother coz most of the band here are considered classic.

99. 99 BOB Sep 25th, 2007 at 3:56 pm

    FFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFFUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCCKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK you

100. 100 ou rooie Oct 2nd, 2007 at 4:01 am

     Guys, there is ONE guitar god. Michael Angelo Batio. The man who plays with 2 necked as well as 4 necked guitars. The man who made a melody of all Zep’s solo’s, just a hell of a lot faster. The man who is the fastest guitar shredder EVER. I won’t deny guys like Petrucci, Vai, Vaughn, Hendrix, Tremonti, McCready their place in the sun but the undisputed best is Batio

101. 101 Holy Springer Oct 3rd, 2007 at 2:03 pm

     I just read all these post. For me it’s Buddy Guy, Clapton, Stevie Ray and what’s with the Stoney guy? The Beatles were a boy band? Give me a break. They are by far the best group from any generation. The solo for The End off Abbey Road is from George, John and Paul and for me ranks in my top 5 of all time. As far as groups out now, can’t think of a one that I even like. They all suck. Between Rap & Nirvana, the music has sucked for the last 15 years or more. No talent.

102. 102 ou_rooie Oct 8th, 2007 at 5:43 am

     Holy Springer:

     I totally agree. Talent has gone out the window. These days the guitar scene is being ruled by 3 or 4 chord songs! WTF? In the glory days of old you couldn’t even count the chords.
     However, you should listen to Alter Bridge’s new album, Blackbird. Tremendous vocal talent as well as great guitar skill on that album, so I think you ought to appreciate it

103. 103 Holy Springer Oct 8th, 2007 at 10:22 am

     ou_rooie,

     I will check them out, thanks. I have heard a couple of newer songs that were pretty good, however the days of buying a CD are gone since most of the groups have maybe 2 good songs on a CD. And they have the nerve to say we are all downloading the songs for free as the reason sales are down? Maybe they should find some good talent out there and then we buy!

104. 104 ou rooie Oct 9th, 2007 at 3:18 am

     Holy Springer:

     Haha good point. I just struggle to wonder where music went wrong. Earlier years skill levels were overall high, but recently that is not the case. I got a theory that the singing talent went first (eg the vocalists could only manage 1 or 2 octaves) and the guitar skill fell after that. You did make a good point though. Give us the albums worth buying then we will buy

105. 105 JackW Oct 11th, 2007 at 5:04 am

     I’ve seen lots of posts about bands, this list is best individual GUITAR SOLOS, not best BAND with guiter solos (a la Iron Maiden, Judas Priest), or best SONGWRITER who happened to perform guitar solos (Jack White, Bruce Springsteen).
     Keep in mind also that this wasn’t voted on by pros or industry members, but by the fans of GuitarWorld Magazine, who only know about hits from the mainstream of twenty years ago or more, so of course no indie or experimental bands are gonna get any cred.
     And by the way, I agree, “Stairway” and “Crazy Train” derserve a spot on the list, but not top ten placing. And “Smells Like Teen Spirit”? Come on, really?

106. 106 kiss Oct 11th, 2007 at 2:29 pm

     kiss is the best rock band on earth they should have at least 5 more solos on here ace blows half theese solos away oh ya reaper children of bodom is a sucky solo wheres Detroit rock city when you need it

107. 107 jeff Oct 11th, 2007 at 7:19 pm

     firstr of all yall r stupid who wants some indie on there …u cant tell me that thats not a good list. All the ppl on there could guitar circles around u and whoever u mentioned

108. 108 forum news Oct 14th, 2007 at 2:55 am

     forum news Super great informatif forum

109. 109 Kenny Ng Oct 14th, 2007 at 10:25 am

     No doubt that Stairway to Heaven in #1, but personally I still prefer Comfortably Numb after all.

110. 110 Zac Oct 14th, 2007 at 4:11 pm

     Jordan by Buckethead
     The solo is awesome
     o_o

111. 111 KT Oct 17th, 2007 at 11:00 am

     I personally think that John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers) should have two or three solos on here. I think I could have lied is simply the most beautiful solo… technically easy to play but well composed. Also, Fuel the the Fire by Rory Gallagher is one of the best guitar songs in genereal but also has a great solo. RIP Rory.

112. 112 Anonymous Nov 8th, 2007 at 9:11 pm

     This list needs updated. There have been songs released that have amazing guitar solos since Rolling Stone released this list. Just as an example of a current song that I think should be on this list is Through the Fire and Flames by DragonForce. Yes, we don’t have Hendrix, Van Halen, Page, or any of the other great guitarists around much anymore, but great solos are still being written and performed. Give these newer bands some credit and include there music when comiling a list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Solos.

113. 113 Hrafnkell-Ravenkell Nov 12th, 2007 at 1:45 pm

     This list is way out of date, b