51 Guitarists Rolling Stone MISSED on their 250 Greatest Guitarists List

[@MusicisWin]

How do you feel about my list updates? Did I miss anyone? *BLACK FRIDAY PRE-SALE* on Guitar Super System: bit.ly/GSS-BLACK-FRIDAY Subscribe for just $5. Cancel anytime. Sale ends on Black Friday at 11:59pm PST.

[@stereoroid]

I think I suggested Tony Macalpine, Bill Frisell, Michael Hedges and Andrés Segovia on the original video - well, one is better than none! Some more names: Mike Keneally, Alex de Grassi.

[@phildevlieger8679]

I’m thinking of john 5

[@nedludd3641]

Wot about Paul Kossof?

[@gcastroamaral]

Andy Timmons

[@ozi76]

Bill Nelson

[@MetalheadNation]

One that I’m suprised was both missed here and on The Rolling Stone list was Allan Holdsworth Maybe the most advanced player to ever pick up the guitar, Guthrie Govan before Guthrie Govan. While he didn’t play all different styles like Guthrie, Howe, or other fusion players, he created his own world in music that has influenced countless players, from Eddie Van Halen to Shawn Lane to Tom Morello to John Petrucci and so many more. The most advanced harmonic language I’ve ever heard on guitar, and was still able to make that language feel emotive and beautiful in a way that many fast players never could. Allan Holdsworth’s contributions to electric guitar are often overlooked, but he is just as responsible for how far the guitar has advanced as players like Eddie and Hendrix are. An absolute legend of the instrument, and his passing is a void in the music world that will never be filled. Rest in peace Allan

[@SHARt_murmur]

Was gunna post this if I didn’t see this, thanks for commenting. Totally agree!

[@IggyBing]

Pretty egregious oversight. Agreed a million times over.

[@DCJayhawk57]

Bothers me that Tyler includes KZbinrs and professors from his college that nobody knows about and doesn't include one of the GOATs of both technique and innovation. He invented his own harmonic language (like chord scales, wtf), and played things few can copy since he had mammoth hands but a soft touch. Holdsworth, Shawn Lane, Yngwie, and Jason Becker are the "aliens" of guitar, in my opinion. So many have tried to copy them but there's always something missing. There are the modern "aliens" like Govan, Asato, Mancuso, Graham, but Holdsworth is one of the forefathers.

[@benmorris118]

I mean, if you're gonna pit a load of other shred nerds on, you might aswell put the guy who can out shred all of them

[@thelonghairfreakypeople6374]

agree holdsworth was the best.

[@enigma00]

Alex Lifeson. Always overlooked, but he is absolutely one of the best.

[@C_Melvyn_James]

Alex was actually #58 on the Rolling Stone list. I think he's top ten but I can live with their placement of him, seeing as they missed Alan Holdsworth entirely , etc

[@Joseph-vl4uk]

@@C_Melvyn_James Felt the same way, lol. On the original top 100 list he was like 98 or 99, so seeing so many from that list fall in great numbers while he moved up by almost double was nice to see, considering the history with RS and Rush.

[@Fred-vy1hm]

In Guitar Worlds readers poll he was ranked 3rd so ya Rolling Stone is lowballing him just like they did with the band.

[@MsBenlane]

rose on the list. has he improved that much? shows how stupid their lists are. @@Joseph-vl4uk

[@Joseph-vl4uk]

@@MsBenlane Not so much improved, but they received input from people who actually know a thing or two about guitars and guitarists for this go around whereas the first list looks like it was made from a couple degenerate beat writers, although this list still sucks. Can't depend on rolling stone to put out content displaying quality musical knowledge. Just a bunch of pretentious people interested in voicing their ignorant stances and critiques on things they act like they know a lot about, but in fact know very little.

[@trapperj4077]

Steve Morse needs more love from these lists. He’s a beast. Musically amazing and technically unbelievable.

[@Garspawnish]

He’s better than 75% of the people on the RS 250 list. And a super nice guy.

[@johnalbasini6790]

I remember I the ‘80’s and ‘90’s Steve was Guitar Player magazine’s guitarist of the year like six years in a row…

[@aschule5684]

Whenever I come to this discussion somewhere Steve is the first name I mention. His exclusion is unbelievable to me. When I first heard Steve in the Dixie Dregs I kinda forgot about every other guitar player he blew me away. He for me was that player I never thought I'd hear. He became the most important guitar player to me. I'm really blown away that he wasn't included on that list !!

[@jamesguthridge9820]

I cannot believe Steve Morse and AllanHoldswprth were not top of mind for Tyler’s list. Very surprising.

[@ykimyntti2312]

Yeah, he belong to the gallery of the greats of Guitar Player . In fact he was too good for too many years for the best player so they shelfed him there. Very nice guy, too. I met him in a guitar clinic in a very small town in Finland (Ikaalinen, he really was there!) in 1990 and he was so nice to amateur players and politely answer all the questions. And also showed his amazing guitar playing.

[@EternallyThankful-os6pz]

Phil Keaggy , Allan Holdsworth , Michael Schenker , Roy Clark , Glen Campbell , Peter Frampton and possibly Don Felder come to mind that you may have missed also - there really are about 350 to 400 truly phenomenal guitarists that one could put on a best ever list !!

[@addickkelders2265]

You can easily skip 50 guitar players in the snobbish RS list, but there are thousants fenomenal guitarists in this world.

[@lastdaysguitar]

thousands. phenomenal. @@addickkelders2265

[@Zayphar]

Of the ones you mentioned, I would put particular emphasis on Holdsworth, Clark, Campbell and Frampton. And maybe add Tommy Tedesco also.

[@peter333]

How could he (or RS) miss Michael Schenker, just to name one, or Felder... Allan Holdsworth too, even if i'm not into his style of music, he's been legendary like forever and in a league of his own.

[@PhilKelley]

I agree, Phil Keaggy needs to be on these lists. Someone should do a Rick Beato-style "What makes this guitar player great", starting with Phil. Just listen to one of his earliest records, The Master and the Musician. Virtuoso guitar playing, great tones, amazing melodies, and tremendous range of styles - classical to hard rock.

[@carlosvasquezguitar]

What about Allan Holdsworth? He was literally the main inspiration of Eddie Van Halen and almost every single guitar god out there from the 80's and on

[@samme79]

Brian Setzer, Stanley Jordan, Jeff Healey, Phil Keaggy, Bucky and John Pizzarelli, Joscho Stephan and other jazz players in general. The fact that people forget them when discussing this list makes them even more underrated. Also since you brought up Mick Goodrick, might as well talk about Ted Greene too and Marcus King since Billy Strings was mentioned

[@saleenX02]

H.E.R. made the list, so Marcus King should be on it too.

[@maxwellblakely7952]

Marcus King, Philip Sayce, Ritchie Kotzen.

[@harveycooke9181]

BRIAN SETZER!!!! Seriously, so underrated.

[@Zundfolge]

Phil Keaggy is one of those guys that is always on those lists of "your favorite guitarist's favorite guitarists".

[@Meditech509]

​@@harveycooke9181not underated. Just under recognized.

[@jasonmasters7630]

I can’t believe Marcus King is not on the list. The guy is an incredible guitarist and musician.

[@ReedHomanMusic]

I know! I love Marcus Kings music

[@perrysmith3843]

Matt Bellamy deserves a shout, he certainly has his own sound and has wrote many great riffs. Inspired me to pick up a guitar

[@cyrus.cycocy.7974]

For sure

[@ihazshort8093]

100%

[@danialm8122]

Matt Bellamy should be on the list.

[@joepettibone]

Jerry Cantrell is absolutely amazing it's sad he's not on the list great writing, great riffs, great solos great everything my favorite guitarist of all time

[@ajmoore2201]

Yeah Jerry is very underrated, on a technical level he's 10x better than Kurt Cobain ever was

[@mad_cat_1st]

He's on there. I found a few that are in the 250 and some are sniping that they aren't. Not saying the list is any good really - Ty Tabor isn't and Liz Phair is, even though she was terrible live. Peter Green is in the 250, and his name keeps coming up. There are some folks out there that think Rolling Stone did it this way in order that people would start talking about the magazine again, so I guess it worked?

[@joepettibone]

​@ajmoore2201 I like Kurt too but I agree with you Jerry is way better 100%

[@Darcinator-music]

He is on there, thank goodness

[@jhnel13]

Peter Green - I mean really, he wrote and played some of the most influential and memorable music imo. And created a guitar tone that defined his genre. Greg Howe, is a guitar wizard. If Victor Wooten wants to play with you, then your one of the greatest. Scott Henderson, a fantastic player and educators. No one beats him in phrasing, feel, jazz, and Texas Blues. He is tremendously versatile. I think that i should also mention the guy from Cosmo Squad in the 90's end early '00. Sorry don't know his name 😅. And , Josh Smith!!!

[@mad_cat_1st]

Peter Green is on the 250 list.

[@jhnel13]

@@mad_cat_1st 😬oops

[@sheldoninst]

Jeff Kollman is the guitarist for Cosmosquad.. amazing player

[@imacmadman22]

So glad you mentioned Robin Trower, I had the privilege of seeing him in concert in 1985, it was one of the most memorable shows I've ever attended. Such a fabulous, soulful guitarist. Another couple of names shamelessly left off that list are Michael Schenker (Scorpions/UFO/MSG/McCauley-Schenker Group) and Steven Rothery of Marillion. Both players are opposites of each other, but they are so in-the-pocket and they play parts that make the song the most important thing.

[@szymondudzinski6661]

Al Di Meola is KING! He's one of the best fusion guitarists ever!

[@1ListerofSmeg]

🧡%1000

[@Realpatspray]

So glad you featured Tremonti. The guy that not only shreds, he’s a riff lord, and has arguably one of the best clean playing out there

[@JoshPillault]

I don’t like any of his projects at all, not a fan, but he’s damn sure a good guitar player, no denying that. And very influential for sure

[@Bardish]

Bro, how can you not feature the best guitarist of the decade by Guitar World Magazine...

[@Realpatspray]

@@Bardish that’s what I’m screaming, but rolling stone is bout like cosmo as far as music goes

[@PocketDelicious]

And he sings Sinatra. Dude is truly an artist.

[@Realpatspray]

@@nickfrito I agree. Rs is about as rock n roll as the Washington post

[@fadetoal]

Glad you mentioned Paul Gilbert, I can not believe he was not on this list. You named a bunch that are for sure on my list. 🤟😎🎸

[@ajlsrv5490]

Brad Paisley. As important of a country player, especially to modern country style and tone, as there is. Absolute monster of a player.

[@fatfredthe28th]

Same with Steve Wariner. Christ, he was one of Chet Atkins' certified guitar players.

[@austinkellett8620]

And Keith Urban made the list😂

[@bwelc0076]

Look up the video of Brad Paisley and Tommy Emmanuel.

[@takumifujiwara6277]

My heart skipped a beat when you mentioned Alexi Laiho. He was absolutely my biggest idol in music, and Hatebreeder is also my favourite album of theirs. Don’t sleep on Bodoms #2 man, Roope Latvala, either. That guy also has all the chops! Hope he is doing better these days..

[@powbobs]

No idea who that is.

[@kallehavumaki3173]

Latvala was better than Alexi tbh

[@walkawaycat431]

​@@powbobsGuitarist for "Children of Bodom" from Finland.

[@3to5andglassy]

Michael Schenker should be on any and every list, and he is on quite a few. Take ten minutes out of your life and listen to UFO's Rock Bottom off the Strangers in The Night, LP. After that just start looking up UFO songs from 1974 through 1978, and when he returned to the band in 95. His band MSG first two albums are great! His melodocism, phrasing, lines, tone and vibrato are outstanding. Hes also influenced many greats, Randy Rhoads, Mike McCready, Dime Bag, Alex Skolnick, and many more.

[@raisinsawdust]

Michael Schenker is probably the greatest living and actively performing guitarist today.

[@bsmdude1]

100 percent@@raisinsawdust

[@sfmusicscene1249]

MSG's first THREE are great, with the third, Assault Attack, being right up there with the first one. It also has Graham Bonnet on vocals and he delivers with non-stop Dio quality screaming/singing the whole time (what an insane voice). The songs on Assault Attack are phenomenal, even their radio hit on the album, Dancer, which is damn catchy and has a ripping solo. Funny thing about this album, I've been a Schenker fan since 86 when I first heard Force It, and never checked out this album until 30 years later. So weird, I guess I thought it was a live album all that time and assumed it would just be songs I've already heard before. Anyway, checked it out and was blown away. What a treat, Schenker from back in the day heard for the first time in 2016. And yeah, totally agree with you. The guy's phasing and note choices are right up there with the greats, and perhaps even with the great classical composers. His solos are so natural and so vocal, amazing stuff. A true musician.

[@raisinsawdust]

Just listen to UFO’s Obsession album

[@3to5andglassy]

@raisinsawdust a guitar players album, for sure. Pack it Up and Go, You Don't Fool Me, One More for The Rodeo, are lick heavy songs that kick ass. The anthemic solo of Only You Can Rock Me, and beautiful solo from Born to Lose. Absolutely, the whole album is wicked good!

[@booth403]

"Dave Mathews was the original John Mayer" Truer words have never been spoken

[@edwardbinion7485]

Not really but close.

[@KenGust]

Came for this comment and was not disappointed. 🤘

[@garyolshan4177]

@@KenGust I never got Dave Matthews and never will.

[@lowi0008]

Relatedly, I'd argue Tool fans are the Dave fans of metal.

[@glennlongoria9952]

No just no, I vomited in my mouth a bit

[@conradcarter8313]

Chuck Schuldiner. 1. invented death metal 2. perfected death metal 3. was influential in starting technical death metal 4. perfected technical death metal. Something also needs to be said for his incredible skill in being a frontman, singer, lyricist and composer. His riffs are catchy, groovy, one of the best death metal let alone metal writers ever. Death's discography has no bad albums. A feat almost no other band has completed. He was gone too soon.

[@danzemacabre8899]

Right on

[@ajmoore2201]

Couldn't agree more I was literally gobsmacked that Chuck wasn't on there. Imo he's the greatest metal musician of all time period And Symbolic imo is the greatest album of all time along with Steely Dan's "Aja"

[@davidgilman5207]

All these were considered and are the reasons he's not on the list.

[@danzemacabre8899]

@davidgilman5207 have you actually listened to Death? From album Human to Chucks final (and imo his best,)work which was Control Denied,it's some of the greatest metal ever crafted this side of Megadeth(where there are quite a few similarities) not only that it is a very interesting story of one guys perseverance (I'm punny) to create a style of music that we still don't really have an equivalent ,one listen to Control Denied and it's easy to come to the conclusion that we were robbed of the next great band of the 21st century,and a record that Chuck Shuldinger worked on from his death bed to leave A mark and that he did leave,you don't have to like it but any musician that takes a few to listen to any of the albums beginning with Human ,if they are any kind of musician will sure as hell respect it .some of the finest players, especially drummers , Sean Reinert was the key by bringing jazz elements into the with his only appearance in the band but arguably it's most important on Human, after that legendary Gene Hoagland came in and expanded on Sean's infusion of unique time signatures and then after that another legend Richard Christie toed the line three magnificent drummers right in a row and joined one the great fretless bass playing monsters in Steve Digiorgio ,one of my heroes and with an appearance from guys like Andy LaRocque put out some fantastic material, but the guy who put it all together in one of the most unique sounding bands ever was Chuck and his aggress yet at times soulful playing,most get turned off by his vocals but the music itself is so damn good you learn to love it, besides the last album he got singer and the was brilliant, si if you haven't just give it a listen,it's good stuff, peace

[@conradcarter8313]

@@danzemacabre8899 couldn't have said it better myself

[@57stratkat]

I'm in agreement with all of your additions. Robin Trower - yes! My God, on Too Rolling Stoned's outro, he hangs in basically one position for 5 minutes of blistering stream of consciousness riffing (I never get tired of listening to it). He wrote the book on slides and bending and how to use effects to sound huge. Fantastic, soulful player.

[@petebrown3715]

Good update list Tyler. Two omissions that really stood out to me were Michael Schenker and George Lynch from that Rolling Stone list.

[@maybeevan.]

two guitarists that i saw almost nobody has mentioned are wes montgomery and dean deleo, they are both very similar not only playing wise but their music are as well, montgomery set the standard and broke walls in jazz, he was THE american guitarist. dean deleo on the other hand was influenced by not only the greats like led zeppelin, but also the jazz and fusion greats, including wes montgomery, and in doing so became one of the most versatile guitarists and one of the most creative imo.

[@whoarethebrainpigs]

Wes Montgomery was on R.S list ,,think he was 50 or there abouts,,

[@Zayphar]

DeLeo was mentioned several times in the comments of the previous video. He is well appreciated among the community, and definitely should have recieved consideration as a nominee.

[@SeraphimArkis]

Tommy Bolin should be on the list. His work on Billy Cobham’s Spectrum album is one of the most groundbreaking jazz rock fusion works of the early 70s and his solo record Teaser was stellar.

[@davidwethington9320]

You get Richie Blackmore's approval to take over Deep Purple and influence Jeff Beck so much he changes his style. You definitely deserve to be on the list.

[@CustomTele52RI]

Damn straight - and I think Private Eyes is an even better Tommy Bolin album.

[@amaquonsippi]

Tommy Bolin . Dorado Schmitt . Oscar Aleman . Segovia .T-Bone...

[@johnmcwhorter1728]

I'm a huge Deep Purple fan and Come Taste the Band is one of my favoerite records- really solid playing

[@Ryww2828]

Buck Dharma from Blue Oyster Cult... Always gets overlooked, but to me he's one of the most unique and recognisable guitarist ever! Anyone reading who hasn't listened to anything by BOC other than Don't Fear The Reaper, I highly recommend listening to their 70's and early 80s albums, they are superb!

[@Hentarded]

Such a classy player, smooth as butter, tasteful, traditional and understated, but my god he's a beautiful player.

[@markoliver630]

Saw them this past summer. Buck is still great at 75 .

[@zoeywitz6884]

Yup. He’s awesome.

[@reubensane5539]

Absolutely!!!!

[@IanYoung-u3v]

Supercool phrasing, his solos on Buck's Boogie, I Ain't Got You, 7 Screaming Dizbusters etc. have a swing that has almost completely disappeared from contemporary shredding "technique"

[@PontusMusik]

I absolutely love Matt Bellamys playing skill, but also his innovative and creative music writing. Really underrated guitarist.

[@PontusMusik]

And, of course Terry Kath!

[@Darcinator-music]

100% I'd listened to muse for a while before realizing just how technically amazing he is, while still having an amazing voice and being an amazing songwriter. Ridiculous talent, reminds me of Thom Yorke.

[@Prometheus__2003]

Great, diverse list but still missed Roy Clark. Definitely should be in a list of 301 guitarists between the two lists.

[@Zayphar]

I would add Glenn Campbell also. He was the main guitar player for The Wrecking Crew and for decades was one of the best session guitarists in America.

[@hlyangel1]

🙌

[@hlyangel1]

YES

[@richardvale214]

!!!

[@richardvale214]

@@Zayphar!!!

[@coolcarsfan1414]

It's a shame Terry Kath wasn't included on either of Rolling Stone's lists.

[@charlesholland6851]

I just recently learned of Terry. And I’m old. He was freaking absolutely amazing!

[@nickthinkpainting1978]

He was a beast. I’m a man …I burnt that album to shreds.

[@andrewfurst5711]

Yes, I wondered if I'd missed their entry on Terry Kath; apparently not. They've got Jimi Hendrix at number one, yet Hendrix himself thought Terry Kath might be better than he was. And yet - not even in their top 250!

[@absolutetuber]

its rolling stone so we know the list is a joke to begin with

[@MikeArwineGuitar]

I have been saying the same thing for a while. Nonmusicians still seem to think they are the be all, end all to music journalism. When I say that they haven’t been reliable for a while now people seem to be surprised. I agree with you 100%

[@KanameAkiyama]

They also own RnR Hall of Fame right?

[@donbishop6994]

That's a fact homie. Rolling Stone is a fkn woke joke nowadays.

[@michaelhotz7118]

As is the Magazine

[@donbishop6994]

@@michaelhotz7118 Such a shame. It used to be an awesome magazine. Their fall from grace has been interesting to watch over the years.

[@kundal1n1]

I love that you put Mike Eizinger, one of my favorites ever. Was Matt Bellamy on Rolling stones? If not he rocks too

[@DawidUliczny-ro7eo]

I hoped I would see Adam Jones! His sound transforms from album to album but is exquisite every time. His riffs are simply incredible and talking about being in the pocket, especially in their constantly changing time signatures. I would throw in Marcus King for newcoming blues, this kid has incredible feel, reminds me a lot of Billy Gibbons. Great to see Orianthi here!

[@countdebleauchamp]

Adam Jones was a huge omission, not only on RS's list but in many of the reaction videos and comment threads.

[@jeremy.thejeweler]

So stoked to see Paco get some love. He’s so incredible but rarely in the conversation. Also, I grew up with nothing but Guitar World magazine, and in the early 2000s, Alexi was god. This short list was better than the entire rolling stone list.

[@laughlin301]

I would have added Adam Jones of Tool. His guitar playing is so weird in the best way. He's come up with new techniques that sound amazing and his amalgamation of tones alone should secure him a spot on the 250 list

[@sigouinfb]

Saw Tool live yesterday!! (for the 3rd time)... I love Adam's sound and what he brings to a song but I don't know if he is amongst the 250 best... (Tool is my favourite band BTW!) Danny Carey is probably in the top 10 drummers though...

[@mrbaris0]

Still waiting to see Uli Jon Roth on these lists. His playing on The Sails of Charon blows me away everytime i hear it.

[@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912]

Charon is the crewman of the rowboat which carries the souls of sinners across the river Styx to Hell... if you believe that?, then I've got a gigantic arched steel & concrete bridge to sell you in Sydney going for a bargain price. Charon allegedly uses a paddle or oar in his rowboat, a rower yes, a sailor not - is good ol' Charon. (A typically pathetic minor correction & fact I know I'm pedantic person but I can't help my rampant OCD. if any part of this comment upsets or offends anyone or you then Free-Call 1800-EAT-MY-SHIT to complain.) Oh, btw, how on Earth have they missed Tyler Larson from this top 500 list? Tyler Larsen is the undisputed king of... no, he is the undisputed queen of Neo-Egotist-Schlock-Suckcock-Rock from the list. Anybody knows this for a fact!?. Mate, Tyler you are such a name-dropping wanker it's just so grotesque. Tyler Larson deserved to be on this top 500 list - since it's all wrong missing many greats & basically sux so bad? Really, with such an outcry over this shitty list, how Tyler missed out would have broken this egotistical brat inside a bit?.. I hope so anyhow, really how did Tyler miss out being on the list, PRS guitars btw have a disgusting bland 'generic' tone. Peace, respect & have a great day too to you @mrbaris0. 🎸@Didyabringyabongalong Station,🪃Central Queensland,🤘Australia🦘

[@davidroth6115]

Vick Flick, and Tim Pierce! Hard to believe either one did not make this or the RS top 250…. Unless missed one of them on the lists, both are truly amazing guitarists who have forever made lasting impressions in the musical industry forever!!!!

[@whoarethebrainpigs]

No,, Vic Flick wasnt on R.S list ,,,only played on some of the greatest songs of the 60's ...another session legend Tommy Tedesco. did make cut in R.S. and havent heard him mentioned on any feedback forum,,,and as someone else mentioned ,,where was Nigel Tufnel???

[@davidkusko3370]

So, I havent looked at the Rolling Stones "list" but OMG, everyone on your list has been instrumental to guitar... what a crazy list.

[@BermudaBlueBoy]

I can't believe The Great Rick Derringer has been forgotten about on that big list plus Peter Frampton, Lee Ritenour, Robin Trower, Tim Pierce, Tom Sholtz, Don Felder, Glen Cambell, Roy Clarke and Grant Geissman who is Chuck Mangione's fabulous guitarist on that Big 1978 hit “Feels So Good” !!! A truely awesome performance that is completely overlooked and one of my favorite solo's of all time.

[@MackAxyzz]

...do you feel like we do???

[@trapperkcmo3460]

no glen campbell? thats insane. and roy? and lee? rick and peter? and the original guitar hero rock star windmiller, steve marriott?

[@travispierson2058]

DeGarmo and Wilton made 5 of the best metal albums ever. George Lynch... frequently overlooked member of LA's Big 3. In the mid-70s, he was drawing crowds on the Sunset Strip right along with Rhodes and Van Halen. It just took a bit longer for him to end up in a band that broke out. Brad Gillis is an absolute monster. Stepping in mid-tour to replace Rhodes in Ozzy's band was no small feat. And his ability to go from shreddy hair metal to expressive power balad in Night Ranger's repertoire puts him on par with Schon. Speaking of slide players, you can't ignore Raitt, George, Cooder, and Landreth. Narrowing it down to 250 is an impossible task, but I think we all agree that RS crapped the bed.

[@duncanholman9034]

Jeff Loomis, Jeff Loomis, Jeff Loomis. Unmatched riff writing in his genre. Insane technique.

[@bripslag]

Kind of surprised that Tim Pierce didn't make either list. His playing on many, many hits set the tone for much of the '80s and '90s.

[@peterhopqk]

he is only known for studio session work. Don't know if that counts.

[@Hentarded]

I'll say i was surprised by some inclusions, like Brian Robertson and Scott Gorham of Thin Lizzy and Ricky Wlison of B52s. They absolutely deserve recognition and are fantastic players, happy to see them. Completely agree with your mentions, but id add: - 2 godfathers of shred and heavy metal: Michael Schenker, Uli Jon Roth - 2 OGs from hard rock: Ronnie Montrose and Buck Dharma

[@e333d]

Also The best ever Dave Maneketti, and Ted Nugent, Andrew Lattimore, Al Kooper, Matthias Jabs, Mick Box / Ken Hensley, Peter White, Dan Auerbach, Buck Dharma, Ritchie Sambora, Carlos Santana, Rick Nielson, Terry Kath, Coco Montoya, Dave Mason, Phil Collen, Jeff "skunk" Baxtor, Greg Lake, Frank Marino, Mark Farner, Randy Bachman, Paul Kantner, Martin Barre / Mick Abrahms, Randy California, Henry Garza, Marc Antoine, Tommy Shaw, Frank Hannon, Andy Powell, Jay Soto just to add a few more

[@bajorekjon]

I think Troy Van Leeuwen should definitely be included with Josh Homme. Also i'd add Terry Kath to the list.

[@theAreaMan]

Whoa, didn't even notice that Kath wasn't included. Yeah, that's criminal. Agreed on Homme....very original, and has probably done more for rock as a whole than about anyone else in the past two decades.

[@bajorekjon]

@@theAreaMan You're never gonna please everyone with a list like that. There will always be people left off, and people ranked too high or too low. Like the guys from Queens and several others.

[@Hevvvyyy]

Josh homme, the king at singing/playing odd shit that sounds killer. A lot of those Queens songs are kinda difficult to sing and play at the same time, it's great tho

[@markskinner4850]

You had me at Alexi Laiho! What a legend! In my personal top 5 for sure. Saw him live 7 times. Blew my mind every time. RIP

[@007maineguide]

Great additions to the list. I would have added Leo Kottke. He's an amazingly talented acoustic player. One of the best finger-pickers ever (at least until tendonitis forced him to change his picking style). His musical style lately is classified as Americana. I would simply say the style is a wonderful amalgam of blues, jazz and folk.

[@richardvale214]

Yes.

[@Scaramousche1955]

I got to see Leo many years ago and he is a Master. Between songs, he'd change tunings while talking to the audience...plus none of his stuff sounds alike. Hard to do when you're mostly an instrumentalist.

[@stevecowder4774]

Thanks for mentioning Neil Schon, Robin Trower and Joe Bonamassa. Rolling Stone REALLY missed the boat with those guys. But then again, it’s Rolling Stone. I’m an old schooler so admittedly, I’m not very familiar with many of the others you named. However, I can appreciate shining a light on the younger generation talents.

[@brentdoncliff2845]

Agree about Tommy Emmanuel, Robin Trower and Billy Strings. As others have mentioned, I'd also think that Phil Keaggy is deserving of recognition. Hadley Hockensmith and Glenn Kaiser also come to mind.

[@rushtorres17]

Can’t forget about Brian Setzer either! The man brought back a totally different genera in the 80s and is still crushing it today. Just listen to the live version of Sleepwalk!

[@YouCallThisADrink]

An awesome player who I think gets constantly overlooked because he’s in a “joke” band is Satchel from Steel Panther. He really has some sick riffs and he’s amazing live.

[@rrevh12345]

Straight up though, he’s one of my favorite guitarists

[@216Numbskull]

No doubt my friend. You should hear Russ when he's just f%ckin' around in his comfort zone jammin' at home or practice. My buddy Mike use to jam with Russ for awhile & some of the stuff I'd hear them come up with was crazy. When they let loose shredding, forgetaboutit. I'd sit there listening like WTF, slow your roll MFer's damn! I was spoiled growing up & jammed with a lot of kick-azz guitarist's in local club/bar bands. Who are well respected in the music industry yet unknown to most in society even though they hear them practically everyday. For instance like Russ AKA "Satchel" my buddy Mike Szuter is also very good friends with Paul Gilbert & plays with Paul off & on his Japan tours. Other pal's like Frank Romano is a session/touring guitarist who's recorded with Justin Timberlake & Usher to J-Lo & Beyonce & Rob Thomas's touring guitarist. Paul Sidoti is Taylor Swift's guitar player. My buddy Mark Reis who's also a kick-azz guitarist took more of the backseat in music as Joe Walsh's guitar tech for the past 25+ years. Tom Bukovac AKA "Uncle Larry" is one of the most sought after Nashville session & touring guitarist's. Buk has played on over 1,300 albums & toured with everyone from Tom Petty & John Fogerty to Vince Gill & Faith Hill. Shhh!! Don't be a tattletale, but what makes Buk the best to me out of the bunch of my bud's is. As busy as he gets at work, he still finds time to pay it forward. By giving free lessons, education & tips & tricks on guitar, different gear & an inside look of what it's really like to be a pro in the music business day to day. Remembering people who helped him & where he came from in order to get to the big stage, so to inspire & help others guitar players coming up in music. Which is what it's all about & cool AF in my book when he doesn't have to do sh!t really. "You're My Boy, Buk!" 😂😜🤣 ++Peace & Rock n' Roll 4 Your Soul My Friends++ 🤘😎🤘

[@Mickkarnn]

I was surprised Steve Stevens wasn't on the list. He's Billy Idol's guitarist who came up with some VERY good stuff (Better known songs are Rebel Yell, Eyes Without A Face, and White Wedding) and has a unique/recognizable style of playing. He has some solo stuff out, and was behind the creation of the Top Gun anthem with Harold Faltermeyer. Brilliant guy.

[@MrPointy75]

Played the Top Gun theme, iconic.

[@flee4767]

Great addition to the list. Not only a great player, but I could listen to interviews of Steve Stevens all day.

[@Hanzi.J.]

Yes, I agree.

[@lastdaysguitar]

He had some absolute scorching instrumental trio albums awhile back: Bozzio Levin Stevens - check em out!

[@Justinl2391]

Cannot believe Allan Holdsworth was shown no love anywhere. Practically invented the fusion style and basically did it better than anybody else, ever, before and after. Such an amazing sense of melody and rhythm. I dont get how anyone didn't immediately consider him.

[@michaelmiller388]

I would have loved to see some of the guys pushing the acoustic guitar to new levels on the list. Jon Gomm, Alexandr Misko, Mike Dawes, Luca Strignoli, Marcin, Lucas Imbiriba, Antoine Dufor and Andy McKee come to mind

[@justaguy2365]

Michael Hedges and Steve Tibbetts!!

[@michaelmiller388]

@@justaguy2365 Yes forgot about Michael Hedges. He’s practically the godfather of that style. I’m not familiar with Steve but I’ll check him out

[@matthewmorter7803]

I want Andy Mckee's song 'Into the Ocean' to be the soundtrack to my life.

[@aschule5684]

Love Michael Hedges 👍

[@IggyBing]

Definitely! Preston Reed too.

[@marshxox5150]

George Lynch is criminally underrated, one of the big 3 of the late 70’s. Zakk Wylde even mentioned him alongside Eddie and Randy in an interview with Rick Beato.

[@IggyBing]

Agreed, and such a unique voice. Nobody sounds like him.

[@supernothing77]

George didn't establish himself or have his sound until the 80s

[@everettsweet4488]

George shreds, should be on any list like this

[@walkawaycat431]

Agree. Warren DeMartini as well.

[@MagicalMysteryViewer]

Great add ons. One guitarist I wish had gotten some recognition on the RS list is Kaki King. Experimental tunings, jazzy progressions, a unique style of two-hand tapping and percussive slaps. She's really underrated.

[@HarlanHarvey76]

I remember seeing Kaki play, I detuned every acoustic I owned and did nothing but slap my guitar for like a year. This was the same time I was listening to Keller Williams and bought my first looper and couldn't stop playing trumpet noises with my mouth. Then Andy McKee came on the scene and made Kaki look like me... I miss 2000

[@iket.9930]

Tommy Tedesco, Barney Kessel, Howard Roberts, Hank Garland, Jimmy Bryant, Joe Maphis, Grady Martin, Earl Hooker, Eddie Taylor, Jody Williams, Otis Rush, Robert Jr. Lockwood. All undisputed masters of the various genres of music they worked in. If you actually play at a professional level as a working guitarist you already know these guys were the best of the best.

[@Zayphar]

Of these, the only one that is a certain list member would be Tommy Tedesco. Some of the others I've never heard(that's my bad). Some are a bit genre specific(i.e. Hooker, Rush), so not really GOAT list nominees.

[@williamcurtin5692]

Kessel is on the original Smokey Joe's Cafe (Robins/Coasters). That would get my vote right there.

[@rob140138]

Thanks for doing your list. You hit on so many great guitarists, my favorite is Robben Ford, can’t explain why he’s not on there list. Thank you for also exposing players I’m not familiar with. I have homework to enjoy. Cheers.

[@Grabenwie]

What about Tim Pierce? He's been on so many records! As session player he created so many riffs that are popular today!

[@violetflame23]

Massive improvements Tyler - I'd also add Jeff Healey, Mike Dawes, and Michael Hedges.

[@timchalmers1700]

I like your additions! My list would include Steve Morse, Phil Keaggy, Andy Wood, Andy Timmons, Tom Bukovac, Pat Metheny (I forgot if any of my favorites were on the RS incomplete 250 list.)

[@ejosceip]

I waited the entire list for Andy Timmons.

[@treff9226]

Andy Timmons! Love the hell out of his playing, so melodic! Nice!

[@tonguitarra]

​@@ejosceip me too Andy Timmons y a moster of guitar World

[@RichardLivesey-gt6ic]

kim simmons (savoy brown), alvin lee (ten years after), toy caldwell (marshall tucker band), jorma k. (hot tuna/airplane), walter trout , coco montoya , luther allison , martin barre (jethro tull) and andy powell (wishbone ash).

[@troydanko5682]

Steve Rothery is one of my all time favorites. He's a master of melody. His solos aren't feats of technical wizardry, but they take the song to soaring heights and leave you wanting more.

[@troydanko5682]

I'd enjoy discussing this with you.

[@Visionism]

Steve Rothery is the reason I started playing guitar 40 years ago.

[@kameronhill4422]

Surprised Synyster Gates isn’t mentioned. He really gives his guitar a voice and has some extremely iconic and crazy solos in metal, plus he’s the lead guitarist of one of the biggest metal bands of the century. I also see TONS of people who own his iconic schecter model

[@nicholasacosta2460]

Been saying this

[@abenteuertomate]

I am so glad that you mentioned Mike Einziger. I think that he is often overlooked. Maybe he is not technically the best but his Creativity is like on such a huge level.

[@tatertot7320]

I agree!! I love his playing he's the main reason I am so into incubus !!!

[@treff9226]

There's not one Incubus song I don't find interesting - and thats due Mike, who just drips with imagination and creativity, always playing FOR the song! Great acoustic player, as well! Killer mention, nice work!🎸🎸🎸🎸

[@NexusIcon]

Shame on you all for overlooking the brilliance of Dragonforce. Herman Li & Sam Totman have been provoking reactions of "How is that possible?", "They are aliens" and "That has to be faked" for 20 years. The speed, techniques that are all their own and the consistency of their beautiful melodies at a thousand notes per second make them just amazing.

[@willrijkers7308]

Glad you had Neal Schon on your list...he is one of my favorite guitarists. Some gitarists I like and who deserve to be mentioned. Jan Akkerman(Focus/Brainbox) John McLaughlin. Steve Howe/Trevor Rabin(Yes). Tommy Bolin.(Deep Purple) Greg Howe. Michael Lee Firkins. Steven van Zandt(E Street band) Roger Steen/Bill Spooner(The Tubes). Andy Timmons Kerry Livgren/Rich Williams (Kansas). Tom Scholz (Boston). Andy Latimer(Camel).

[@andreyboyk9892]

Thanks for Dave Mathews and Mike Einziger in your list. You voiced all my thoughts about them.

[@liampeters3207]

It’s a shame Brad paisley didn’t make it on the list. Keith urban is good, but Brad is on another level. Play is one of my favorite albums and I think it proves that.

[@Chadillac-xq7xk]

Exactly! Is put Chris Stapleton on here as well. His stuff isn't the most technically difficult, but his guitar work serves his songs better than 95% of musicians.

[@Berndaddie]

And Vince Gill too.

[@Synesthesia_808]

Tony Rice. It truly breaks my brain that he could be left off this list. Greatest bluegrass/folk/acoustic jazz guitarist in a generation and no one brings him into this conversation. No Tony Rice, no Billy Strings, period...

[@matthewlasley3944]

Kinda surprised you didn't put Don Felder from the Eagles on this list and especially surprised Peter Frampton didn't make your list, but thats what makes our lists unique.

[@VNGX2D]

Ty Tabor of King's X... His work speaks for itself. Great list Tyler!

[@flee4767]

Agree 100%!! My personal #1.

[@shelbyavant5081]

GOD. DAMN. RIGHT.

[@jeffhubbard9951]

Great call! I mentioned him in a message I sent a couple days ago, as well. He is just insanely talented on so many levels: riff and song writing, lead playing that may be a Platonic ideal, in its perfect mix of chops/technique, rhythmic confidence and creativity, and phrasing/note selection. Plus, he gets fantastic tones, always (incredibly, some of his best were on the bands first four albums, back in the late 80's/early 90's, a notable era for weak, over processed sounds). And, he's even a talented singer. I met him after a show several years back, and he was also just the nicest, most approachable guy. In every sense, Ty Tabor deserves a ton more recognition. And, seriously, folks, if you have ANY interest in prog metal, and you've never heard "Gretchen Goes to Nebraska" and "Out of the Silent Planet," at a minimum, you NEED to check them out. Actually, be sure to also hear "Moanjam" and "We Were Born to Be Loved," at least, from their "Faith Hope Love" album, as well. On the former, Tabor takes a four minute solo of outrageous creativity and technique, at a super fast tempo. It has to be heard to be believed. And the latter tune features group interplay from the trio that seems genuinely telepathic in the hairpin accent shifts and time changes that they throw in, all through the last quarter of the song. If I hadn't seen them perform it live, I truly wouldn't believe that they could perform it, outside of the studio. What a great band, and what an unheralded giant of a guitarist!

[@javster4138]

Hell yeah! Ty Tabor. My all-time fave from my all-time favorite band King's X.

[@keithroberts150]

Kudos for Vinnie Moore and Shawn Lane. How could you miss Alan Holdsworth, Steve Morse, and Tosin Abasi?

[@mantequilla404]

I believe Tosin was on the rolling stone list, albeit absurdly low.

[@relativetimeworx8459]

And who is Vinnie Moore sitting in for with UFO? A guy who influenced him and more modern guitarists than most of the list combined: Michael Schenker.

[@LivingInTheKaliYogurt]

Tosin was on the RS list that's why he's not on this video bro.

[@thayeryates8941]

Mikael Akerfeldt is my pick for inclusion on the list. Master of atmospheric chord progressions, some of the heaviest most headbang-able riffs ever, wrote some of the most influential prog metal albums of all time, and also has an immediately identifiable sound when it comes to his emotional guitar solos.

[@reverb508]

Hell yeah!

[@JaBrandonSpoons]

Akerfeldt was my #1 snub. They used to have him and Lindgren on the list as a duo but removed them for some reason. Probably to add more women.

[@phillipgriego4675]

Mike Einzinger is a crazy underrated guitar player. Dude has creativity and melody for days 👍🏼

[@dennisdedman2164]

One million votes for Mike

[@han36solo]

THIS list is fantastic, and more than makes up for the snub by highlighting and explaining why these players are so great! Bravo!!! Matthews, Strings, Basilio, Armstrong and your point about Homme "not the most technical...or is he?" is exactly right.

[@higashi7]

Allan Holdsworth, Frank Gambale, Greg Howe, Scott Henderson, Michael Romeo, Marco Sfogli, Steve Lukather, Brett Garsed, Chuck Loeb, John 5, Jeff Kollman, Kee Marcelo, Jeff Loomis, Dimebag Darrel(don't remember if he was on the original list), Richie Kotzen to name a few.

[@phillipb9328]

Barney Kessel , part of the wrecking crew, #1 session player for a few decades, he has played on thousands of hit records. the black and white music lesson on KZbin is one of the the best music lessons , I’ve seen.

[@davidepannone6021]

Still crazy how most lists always forget to add Greg Howe in it. Dude can literally and has literally played any genre. Or Steve Morse.

[@joebungus1]

WTF?!? No Lil' Wayne, Nick Jonas, or Steven Seagal? I can't believe you've allowed them to get snubbed TWICE!!! This list is a joke.

[@kunkmiceter]

😂😂😂

[@99sheepy]

Off the top of my head; George Lynch, Glen Campbell, Marcus King, Roy Clark . . . .

[@cdawg3]

Great Incubus shout out! Such an underrated band. 🎉

[@itaysevenfoldhamri]

The biggest joke is when you realize some of these guys were on Rolling Stone's Top 100 players, and then they made a list of 250 and all of a sudden they aren't on there.

[@agavalence]

How could you have missed Bumblefoot, Gambale, Holdsworth, Kotzen, Blues Saraceno, Dave Celentano, John Williams, Greg Howe, Michael Lee Firkins?

[@MercyBlastTV]

All great players but especially Allan Holdsworth.

[@agavalence]

@@MercyBlastTV Not only are/were they great, they are/were influential, too!

[@MercyBlastTV]

@@agavalence Totally!

[@baabcreations]

Mike Einziger was one of the people that Inspired me to pick up guitar. He is and always will be one of the goats in my world. Glad to see him get some recognition.

[@treff9226]

Mike is MUST HEAR guitarist, with anything he plays! Incubus - so good!

[@jeroen0011]

Immediately starting with Alexi Laiho... yeah instant like for me, i know it's not in a specific order but still, loved his playing and was my guitar idol for many many years... yeah it absolutely sucks that he's not with us anymore, felt like losing a familymember tbh, RIP wildchild

[@CrudeBrothers]

Blues Saraceno is worth checking out, especially his first two records

[@raisinsawdust]

Michael Schenker, Uli Jon Roth, Gary Moore, Steve Morse, Matthias Jabs, Leo Kottke, Roy Clark, Chet Atkins, George Lynch, Andreas Segovia, Leslie West

[@donyandresen8063]

Frank Marino! Criminally underrated and was way ahead of his time!

[@JakeL202]

no so much underrated but under promoted as Frank puts it., see my comment above

[@zombieparrot2606]

Billy Corgan *can* actually shred. I’ve seen a few older vids of him just tearing up the fretboard. Shows what a talented songwriter he is as well, cuz he could have just thrown all that into his songs, but he showed such restraint. The older I get the more I respect how good of Musician he is.

[@johninama585]

Yup, just look for Billy Corgan Guitar Solo 1985 and you can see an 18-year-old Billy shredding on a Les Paul!

[@Conquest13]

Criss Oliva from Savatage definitely deserves some love. He had some monster riffs and could shred like Randy Rhoads. Another guitar god is Kai Hansen from Helloween. He's literally the father of power metal.

[@kbaygorman]

In the hall of the mountain king is packed full of killer riffs !!!!

[@walkawaycat431]

Absolutely. RIP Criss Oliva. I wore that cassette tape out.

[@garyolshan4177]

5 ENORMOUS omissions right off the top . Peter Frampton, Buck Dharma BOC, Elliott Easton Cars, Scott Gorham Thin Lizzy, Dave Gregory XTC They are all on my top 25 list alll-time

[@2002kafkacamus]

All great but I'd leave off Frampton who albeit is good but not in the same league as the rest of those players who are all so melodic and skillful. Kudos for the inclusion of Dave Gregory!

[@johnmcwhorter1728]

I think Masayoshi Takanaka was one of the biggest snubs on both these lists. A defining figure in 70s/80s japanese city-pop music. He is at the top of his game in jazz, blues, rock, fusion, and any other genre he's covered. Such an important and often overlooked player.

[@LuBeDaddY12]

Him and issei noro from casiopea would make my list over most of them. Dudes are absolute shredders

[@zakkmylde1712]

John 5 really should have been on the list as well. Dude is one of the craziest technical players out there and a lot of people just think of him as the Manson/Zombie guitarist but he is so much more. It also hurt my soul that Zakk Wylde got snubbed.

[@mojodojo5533]

J5 absolutely!!

[@Aemdz8]

I don't see him mentioned often but Andy McKee definitely deserves a spot. He changed my whole perspective of guitar when I saw him play "drifting" and "rylynn" on youtube as a kid

[@ron88303]

Fingerstyle guitarists seem to be getting short shrift on these lists. Not sure why, since they basically operate as the whole band.

[@georgeaslanidis4789]

​@@ron88303 It's a shame that fingerstyle gets overlooked. I admire the stuff McKee and Gomm can do - even though I don't really follow their stuff. Many guitarists seem to be influenced by their style and know who they are.

[@bajul2255]

I think Chris Buck might be the best guitarist I've ever heard play. His solo on 'Warm Love' is the absolute pinnacle of guitar playing. He definitely deserves a spot on in this list in my opinion!

[@yourhomiegort]

3:35 finally, some joe bonamassa recognition! this dude is amazing, went to go see him at red rocks a few months ago and it was the time of my life, i totally recommend checking him out if any of you havent already

[@codychickadee5095]

Joe has become the new Nickelback, it's popular to hate the guy for little to no reason. He's actually way better than he used to be, his vocals are so much better now from what I have heard. Solid guy just likes music and cars

[@hmoen]

Gary More, Parisian walkways: Randy Rhoads was inspired by this song to compose Mr. Crowly . He was a big fan of Gary More and they played together at some point. BTW this is fact that Gary himself mentioned

[@Phillythewilly98]

Plini definitely should be on the list. When Steve Vai says you’re the future of guitar music you’re automatically on the list.

[@felipeh5078]

Plini is awesome, should absolutely be on the list!

[@prashantsarkar821]

The Schenker Brothers, and Matthias Jabs need to be on that list!

[@Bullit0028]

The list is definitely missing Greg Koch. That guy also can play literally anything.

[@Jekylnhyde55]

Kazumi Watanabe - anything off his "Mobo" or "Spice of Life" series is a must listen. Amazing chops!