Famous Guitarists On Rory Gallagher

[@billyoshea4667]

I met Rory in Ireland when I was about 14 and an aspiring guitarist. I did the same as Brian May - hung around after a gig and went backstage. I can only echo what everyone else has said about him. For a famous man, he was amazingly humble, decent and down to earth - and willing to talk to anyone, even a star-struck 14-year-old kid. RIP Rory, one of the greats.

[@brianconaway7566]

Absolutely !!!

[@neilrogers1027]

In 1974 I was 13 my dad was strict bed time was 10pm except on a Tuesday he would let me stay up and watch The old grey whistle test This is where I got my first taste of the GOAT Went to Wolverhampton civic hall and saw him for the first time in 1976 my dad paid for my ticket £2-25 Saw Rory many times over the years live and on TV rock goes to college and sight and sound I have seen hundreds of bands/artists over the years but no one else got in my soul like Rory like the advert for the calling card album "nobody bends a guitar like Rory Gallagher" One final note my Dad passed away 2 years ago on June14 Rory's anniversary aged87 Got bless them both

[@daviddoran3673]

Shadowplay.....Philby......

[@randyschroeder1505]

I was 15 in 1975? ''76? got to pick an album for Xmas...CALLING CARD is a MASTERPIECE of his Repetoire, skills, Against the Grain did okay but '76 tough to hear anything about him personally... cont.

[@randyschroeder1505]

..cont.2 in 1974, moved to San Mateo, Calif.,my little brother's best friend, David, n parents had a tow company, n how excited they were (knowing He was Special!), it was Devine Intervention grab that album, am I wrong? Every song genre covered...

[@stephenpemberton85]

In the States we had Austin City limits back in the day and I ate it up with a spoon!

[@kevinwilson598]

That pretty much mirrors my life , loved Rory and early seventies stuff wishbone ash, the groundhogs , Hawkwind and the first band I saw in 75 the sensational Alex Harvey band, great days going to my town hall in hanley watching most of the bands of the day for £2 ha

[@forwhomthebelltolls]

Rory Gallagher is pretty much a legend in Greece for generations of rockers. The Moonchild riff is what kids have annoyed guitar shop owners with for decades over here.

[@volpeverde6441]

not 'smoke on the water' then....

[@LeRoiDelaRue]

And no bloody stairway 😊

[@BlueBEAZY45]

I absolutely love seeing these comments! I constantly see people from Greece mention just how amazing Rory was and it warms my heart man. Even if I’m not Greek myself It feels great to see so many people around the world celebrating his life and craft. I’m an American and it seems like I’m the only person I know other than my fellow musicians who actually know about him. The fact he flew under the radar his entire career just blows my mind. He wrote too many songs that easily could’ve became radio hits but him being the prideful passionate soul he was, wouldn’t sell out. Dude is the GOAT as far as I’m concerned.

[@forwhomthebelltolls]

@@BlueBEAZY45 At the time of the Greek Dictatorship when any kind of music that could be deemed "rebellious" was repressed, Rory Gallagher came to Athens and gave a legendary rock concert. This was a huge deal for young Greeks at the time and pretty much cemented his reputation in Greece for generations. Of course this was easy for a guy like Rory who often played in very dangerous places in Ireland (at the time of the troubles), disregarding all the warnings that he's be risking getting shot if he played. Seems like everyone respected him.

[@BlueBEAZY45]

@@forwhomthebelltolls it’s amazing he was able to even perform in the first place given how strict they were about things. Rory’s music and soul really did transend the zeitgeist of the times. Just look at Irish Tour 74 as a prime example, the Troubles was in full swing and yet he was able to unite both sides long enough to enjoy his craft to the fullest.

[@TheOBOM]

The loving, respectful way Brian talks about Rory is wonderful and shows what a gentleman Brian is in his turn.

[@paddymeboy]

How is he unappreciated when everybody is saying how great he was? What he proves, though, is that guitar playing doesn't count for much without the ability to write songs.

[@boneytony5041]

@@paddymeboyHe’s not as well known as Brian May. I think Brian May respectfully hints at some of the possible reasons why.

[@CruzxxxOliver]

​@@paddymeboychange your diapers first

[@banditdarville.]

I have SSOOOO much respect for Brian May, yet I see he has SSOOOO much respect for Rory.......... Conclusion:- If Brian May holds Rory in such high regard, then Rorys talent level must have been from ANOTHER PLANET...........

[@aaronsearl4810]

Up there with the finest players and could sing, write, compose. Just brilliant!

[@josephmanzuni8593]

Brian May also has so much respect for Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix, as they greatly influenced his music.

[@clareomarfran]

I had one of life's golden moments by discovering Rory, knowing nothing about him, one night in then West Germany in 1972 at a small kino in a town not far from Stuttgart. Two mates and I went out for beer and music. No prob getting in, no line. No warmup band. Three guys casually took the stage, the one in front in plaid shirt and jeans jacket. He tuned a bit and then all Heaven broke loose. Never had a more profound musical experience, before or since. Rory's energy and warmth were electrifying. Not to mention what he did on the guitar.

[@marcosgomes7681]

I lived in the seventies in West Germany he had many gigs there,the Germans loved Rory, unfortunately I was very young and not allowed to go to a Concert of him, always when they make a TV show I was so amazed by his playing,Great Rory

[@milford8485]

That's a nice story. Rory left a good taste in everyone's mouth, so to speak 😊

[@nickdonaghy6360]

Excellent story - I wish I had gotten to see him live

[@SheepOnDrugz]

My guitar hero from 1968. Saw him 5 times, and I wish it had been 500. Finally got to make a pilgrimage to his gravesite and honour all he did for me.

[@johnmagee810]

There are and were lots of technically brilliant guitar players. Rory was one of them, but he was much more - he was a true artist. He lived his music and for his music. Money, fame and recognition are nice but not the main thing. For Rory it was about being true to the music, to the audience and to himself - and he always was. That is why to understand how great he was you had to hear him live. Rory live was unforgettable. I know that because in 1973 aged 14, I heard him for the first time in the City Hall in Cork - our home town. The memory of that gig is alive in me 48 years later. The same reaction is true for his fans all over the world - you simply never forget the first time you heard him live. For me and many others his music has been the soundtrack of our lives. RIP Rory.

[@johnnee6704]

Brian May, what can you say? What a great guy, giving a much-deserved tribute to Rory.

[@Luiscomp1]

Rory brought peace to Northern Ireland every time he visited, due he was a genuine man meaning and wishing love and blues rock harmony to every single one, a hero!

[@eugenebuckley7657]

He was dearly loved by people here in Ireland. The man was a musical wizard. A genuine geezer. 🌹

[@PaulFox-p2w]

Great man more than anything, no 1 guitar player in my time ask Francis Rossi, Thanks God he didn't go in with the the Stones, He was way above them,

[@flossyfloo6375]

Seen the genius that Rory was in concert here in Glasgow three times, be assured he was dearly loved here in Scotland as well, gone too soon. R.I.P. dear man..

[@bearknuckles100]

And the Irish here in Canada too.

[@tonetone7572]

went to see Deep Purple in 1973 when "Made in Japan" was released Rory opened up for them and i never heard of him. i was floored completely blown away. after his encore the crowd was in a frenzy stomping and standing on their seats wanting more Rory. he made it difficult for DP that night that's how good he was. the next day i went out and bought everything he made.

[@cahillgreg]

Yeah, I was a Deep Purple fan and Rory put them in the shadow

[@filipstefanovski155]

Ritchie Blackmore said that he was the most natural player he'd ever seen.

[@neilphelan145]

I too saw Rory open for Deep Purple. The night I saw him he absolutely blew everyone away. As a matter of fact after Deep Purple did their encore we, the crowd, went crazy screaming for Rory to return to the stage. He did and completely blew the roof off of the place. I never saw a better live guitarist ever and I've seen most of the greats. Clapton, Page, Beck, Blackmore, and Van Halen, to name a few. Rory wasn't the flashiest, or even the most technical but he put more of himself and his soul into every single note than anyone else!

[@geordieharrower53]

@@neilphelan145 Same in Vancouver , Canada. Deep Purple and Fleetwood Mac. Crowd wanted more Rory!

[@edseelig9465]

@@geordieharrower53 that same tour played at University of Missouri, Columbia, Mo..I was hearing Rory on KSHE FM radio in St Louis, starting when I was 15. the Taste songs blew me away! I saw them open for Delaney & Bonnie, & Blind Faith, one of the 14 shows that they played in the U.S..in summer of 1969. Taste blew them away! Stunning! By 1972, we were keeping in touch, & he bought his old National Duolian, & 2 of my customers from St. Louis made the drive to Columbia, to see the show, & deliver the National for me. In the ensuing years, we usually went out to dinner & drinks,& he bought his 1960 Gibson Melody Maker w/ Duncan '59 humbucking pickup, which he frequently used for songs w/ a thicker Gibson sound, & a late '30s or '40s National lap steel. As the guys in the video stated emphatically, he could not have been a nicer, down to earth guy,....& a killer musician!

[@blueridger28]

Rory was made of pure beautiful fire! What a talent.

[@scottallan6770]

Blessed to have seen him in the mid-70's. We were all blown away by his playing. RIP brother!

[@stefanobuttera3359]

Rory is my guitar hero, never heard any other guitarist playing with the same passion and made it easy

[@stacyblue1980]

Probably?? He was/is THE best. The very best. Precious and gifted and beautiful. Hands down. The best of all. 🙏🌹

[@vergecryptocurrency4552]

How is that measured ? Being the best ??

[@sixslinger9951]

it's all subjective

[@rogerwilliams2629]

In 77 or 78 I was 17 or 18, a lifelong guitarist, and I loved Rory's music...so went by myself to the Texas Opry House in Houston to see him one night. There was an older long haired fellow that was sitting next to me before the show who asked me if I had ever seen Rory live...and I answered it wasmy firsttime....now, almost 50 years lateri can see him smile at me and say.. "you will never forget what you are about see" He was by God right .

[@randysiler7458]

I also got to see a show in late 70’s at TOH in Houston. Also late 70’s at Liberty Hall. 👍👍

[@rogerwilliams2629]

@@randysiler7458 those were some great times and venues, Randy!

[@GWard-hz5wj]

Many are commenting "if u ever saw him live, u never forgot him". SO TRUE! His stage presence was magnetizing. Once he started with that strat, he had u. What a performance! I only saw him once in 1972 here in USA. My friends & I had heard of him but knew nothing about him except he was from Ireland. We were shocked! He had us so caught up we were awestruck. I will never forget him. And such a happy pleasant man. Immediately connected with the audience. At least he is well recorded on YT so all can see what we did. I agree...way ahead of his time & should always be listed in anybody's top five guitarists list. Love, love, love Rory & miss him greatly. RIP.

[@frosty4peter]

You are absolutely right!👍

[@barblessable]

Me too SEEING HIM live twice , we were so lucky to have those memories.

[@bone0944]

Rory had a quiet unassuming personality. His mind was sharp and thoughtful, he knew how well he could play but his humility kept him grounded and honest. I believe this was the reason he was so good, his playing wasn't encumbered by ego or hubris, it was pure and came from his soul.

[@johnnydingo8680]

Fantastic musician, I have listened to his songs for many years. Listening to his "A Million Miles Away" song does take your mind a million miles away, just brilliant. His album Irish tour '74 is a must listen.

[@maurice19541]

Saw him at The U of Miami in '72. Never heard of him before that concert. He was absolutely astonishing! Never in my life did I experience the Raw energy and brilliant musicianship he displayed that night. He was in a class by himself - RIP Rory.

[@tonymccusker501]

For me

[@lochbuielightanomolies8092]

Greatest "unknown" guitarist of all time. Simply pure talent! Amazing to view his live performances.

[@instantrameng0d36]

what are some other "unknown" gutarists u can think of u

[@lochbuielightanomolies8092]

@@instantrameng0d36 Legendary studio guitarist Chris Spedding. The man who turned down Mick Jagger's invite to join the Stones. Ron Wood got the job.

[@docskate4312]

Rory was the very first concert in my life in 1978, when I was 13. Changed my life completely.

[@bernie_smith]

I was fortunate enough to see Rory on a number of occasions, mainly in the mid to late 70s. His live shows were my favorite gigs during this period and I saw many of the big name acts during this period. He was one with the guitar, rhythm and lead in a way which I have never seen equalled in the rock/blues genre or however you best want to describe it. His wonderful personality and his attitude/purity to his musical profession shone through. As fans we just loved him! I know Johnny Marr was a fan and I was expecting to see you include his TV interview/documentary piece on Rory in this top 10. In the interview I am thinking of, Johnny recollects when he saw Rory at Salford Uni and at the gig Rory changed a broken string whilst still continuing to play the song! I was at that particular gig too, I still remember the incident well. Great days. Rory is so missed.

[@weallliveintrees]

First ‘real’ gig I attended was Rory Gallagher at The Ulster Hall, Belfast 1979. I even got to meet him and shake his hand backstage after the gig. An absolute gentleman as well as one of the world’s finest blues/rock guitarists. I saw him at least another three times at the Ulster Hall and caught him at the legendary Lisdoonvarna Festival on the west coast of Ireland back in the 1980’s. To quote a linefrom the Steely Dan song Pretzel Logic: ‘Those days are gone forever, Oh such a long time ago…’ Luckily the man’s music is still with us in vinyl, CD, video and memory. R.I.P. Mr. Gallagher .

[@francispower1418]

A sound engineer I knew recorded a number of his later albums with him. He told me there was never a second guitar take, over the four or five albums they worked on together. His technical brilliance was such that he always nailed it first time. He also told me, and this will ring true after all the testimonies we have seen in this video, that he was just a lovely guy with it. When he died he was taking a few days off, I think in Spain, before going into the studio to record a new album, which my friend was again booked to engineer for him. It was a double shock for me. Not only did my friend have the sadness of losing his friend and his next project being a write off under such sad, sad circumstances. I was also, separately, on a waiting list for a new ‘boutique’ amplifier from an amp maker who was grabbing everybody’s attention (still is) with his brilliantly executed ‘tone hound’s’ take on the classic Tweed Deluxe, which is his (the amp maker’s) favorite amps of all time. As well as a lot of other people’s, as it turned out. I was waiting my turn and had been in line for about three months. In the event my order got put back twice because two other very famous names needed one of these amps urgently for new projects (both names any of us would fall on our swords for and I was cool about that). Then one sad day in late the February of 2011, a week earlier than I was expecting, I got the call to say my amp was to be delivered early because the customer in front of me had passed away. It was the actual amplifier he was to have recorded his new record with, not that he ever got to play it, with my friend engineering him for. I still have that amp and I think of him pretty much every time I play it, which is most days. It’s a bitter sweet thing. I’d have gladly waited another week and against him I know I can never do this amplifier justice. Yet I find playing through it a great inspiration.

[@leehambleton9919]

I honestly believe that when Rory was on top form he was the greatest guitar player there has ever been

[@1111makala]

Rory died in 1995. It sounds like you are talking about Gary Moore who died while on holiday in Spain in Feb. 2011.

[@francispower1418]

@@1111makala You are absolutely right! My bad. Also an amazing guitarist. I don’t know why i always get those two mixed up.

[@geneb.9619]

Another incredible Irish guitarist I was blessed to see was Gary Moore..I saw him open for Whitesnake then when he started his blues albums I saw him at the universal amphitheater where he brought out Albert Collins..very gracious..by the interviews I've watched with both they were just nice people..Im sure Gary is looking down smiling saying get after your new amp..enjoy my brother.

[@leehambleton9919]

@@geneb.9619 Yeah Gary Moore he was special as well he did a Jimi set it was amazing

[@terrybarton1604]

Sublime guitarist, even better human being, wonderful, modest fella.There is no one better, live on stage. Like lightning in a bottle...the Maestro ☘

[@frosty4peter]

Yeah indeed, he was a very nice and humble person. I was lucky to meet him several times and that will always be in my mind!

[@jimmygaines9504]

I think it was 1971, I was 16 saw Rory at the swing auditorium in San Bernardino, he opened for Deep Purple. Unbelievable, nobody expected him to upstage Blackmore, but he definitely did.

[@AlbertoJorgeSoares]

Great human being, and one of the best guitar players ever.

[@boggy6060]

Commercialisation tends to deceive people..... R.I.P Paco..... kzbin.info/www/bejne/pXjFfXiZpJd4sMU

[@alexbaum2204]

I make no secret about it - I am not a Queen fan. At all. But I could listen to Brian May speak for hours on end. What a seemingly wonderful human being. The way he describes things, his humility, his gratitude. Such class. And being a rock god and a PhD in physics to boot, it just speaks volumes about what a humble person he must be. Considering what an influence Rory was on him, I guess that speaks volumes about him tooz

[@tomasvanecek8626]

Couldnt have said that better.. I admired his playing since 1972 when I first heard Queen.. the band I never cared for, not even then.. but him on first 3 albums still gives me goosebumps. And much much later I learned how nice person he is..

[@zipperpillow]

Who cares what you think?

[@mytorment]

Spa wtf Queen were the greatest?? I've studied transcendental shit troy.... Greatest 😊😇😋

[@bbb8997]

I agree, queen is a great band, but not my taste in music;however, Brian May is a world class guitarist & such a humble human being. no ego whatsoever. Rory was a true gentleman as well.

[@newking70]

Exactly who are you, and why should we care about your opinion on Queen? 😆😆😆

[@frankgianetti2357]

saw Rory 3 times - all small halls 2000 seaters and i can say i have seen a ton of concerts and i won't name all the many big and mid level and smaller bands i have seen but nobody has moved me for lack of a better word than Rory Gallagher - just watching him you could feel the energy and spirit or soul or whatever it was - words can't describe it - his playing was some sort of spiritual extension of his inner light

[@brahmburgers]

I've seen Rory play live in a small club in Wash DC, '71 or '72. Another nearly-unknown blues guitarist who is mind-blowing: Roy Buchanan. ....also died too young (in a jail cell)

[@schliesthefirst197]

I never got to see him, had a couple of his LP's (imports, maybe) & a Taste LP in the early 70's, but "yeah". The energy/power/force that came thru his playing was really pretty unique, especially for someone playing (just barely, sometimes) under control & with an organized melodic overview. His solos ALWAYS had a link to the nut of the song, always started & ended smoothly. For the amount of power in his playing, it's kind of overlooked how technically good he was, too. Maybe because the power was THAT remarkable.

[@philrossner3250]

Thanks for doing this. Rory was my 'main man' on guitar for many years. When I saw him perform live in 1976, I had shivers running up and down my spine. His performance was so primal and it was like a tidal wave of energy coming off the stage. That concert set the bar for me for my own guitar playing and I ended up writing a song for him called "Gypsy Rover." I also chatted online with his brother Donal a little bit, as well as with Gerry McAvoy (Rory's fabulous bassist for many years), after I found out that we shared the same birthdate. I was also part of a Rory tribute collective recording a few months after he passed. He was so highly considered in the guitar playing community and it was so tragic that he passed at such a relatively young age. He was a gentle and honourable person and a fantastic guitarist and singer, never to be forgotten.

[@MHen]

Without any doubt, one of the greatests of all times on this planet on the electric guitar.

[@barblessable]

Not too bad on acoustic guitar ,mandolin ,sax ,and harmonica either.

[@gilesglossop5071]

Rory had it all - A stupendous guitarist who explored a myriad of styles, from classic blues, folk, ragtime, jazz to all out heavy rock; a magnificently soulful singer, a fantastic stage presence, indeed an entertainer as Brian rightly says. Maybe more than all these talents though was that he was a sublime songwriter - his songs were melodic, wistful, dynamic, powerful with poetic, heartful lyrics. Treat yourself and go out and buy his entire back catalogue, it'll become your new passion. What sadness that he was not here for long enough.

[@crashtestbluesmoreblues656]

Beautifully put, Giles, thoughtful and enlightening

[@theesbband]

Brian May at 8.13….”But my GOD, could he play that guitar.” Miss Rory so much.😢

[@detroitlady7201]

Was lucky enough to see him in Detroit. One of the best concerts I've been too. Not because it was flashy but he was sooo good and his personality just oozed out to the audience. He made sure everyone had a great time!

[@jesuschambers]

This video is only two days old and it has already over 50,000 views. You must be very proud and just shows how great and well liked was the phenomenal Rory Gallagher. I don't want to boast but I've seen most of the greats at close hand and to me there's no one better than Rory. One show in 1979 was particularly memorable for me because the last track of the concert was my favourite song from him: Edged In Blue, a song that he rarely played live. It's a big regret that I never managed to meet him in person but I did touch his trainers with my hand that night😊

[@theguitarmusicchannel]

I’m very proud. This video was just a way for me to express my admiration for Mr. Gallagher and to show the world the influence he had over generations of musicians.

[@shacktime]

@@theguitarmusicchannel I’m claiming Davy Graham as the most under-appreciated guitarist of all time, especially given the immensity of hi influence and impact.

[@lisariggs8947]

I'm a Rory Gallagher fan, sadly after he passed, I stumbled upon his music and performances and it was instant awe for the man, the musical and his craft, truly under appreciated and I'm sure there will never be another like Rory.♥️🤟🎸♥️🤟🎶♥️

[@JF-kv1gm]

Me, too. I only discovered Rory about 7 or 8 years ago. Wow, absolutely dedicated to his art.

[@kironafly6605]

Saw Rory in Boston around ‘78 … pure talent! Through KZbin I get to re-learn about him and appreciate his musical gifts even more. Thanks!

[@cpf55]

I've heard of him back in 70s. I still remember how blown away i was. I knew that I was listening to an extraordinarily talented guitarist

[@midlifemotox]

Rory Gallagher was and is very appreciated.

[@RobHollanderMusic]

True, but by fewer people than you'd think given his brilliance.

[@kencook6217]

The best live gig I ever went to back in November 1988 . Truly magical. Long live his music, legacy and memory. R.I.P. Rory.

[@amitychief3061]

One of the tragedies of my life is that I discovered Rory after he was already gone. The first song I heard was "Walk On Hot Coals" live off the Irish Tour '74 album and I said to myself, who is this guy and how is it possible that I had never heard of him before? He played the town where I grew up several times, once at a venue that was less than a mile from my house. Oh how I wish I was aware of him then.

[@Isleofskye]

Same with me though I am 68 and have no excuse in London.

[@kelvinriordan5833]

The album with the songs Brian May was talking about was Taste "On The Boards". Fabulous and unforgettable!

[@scaryfakevirus]

I saw him when I didn't know who he was when I went to a college in Surrey England in the '70s . I wasn't into that style of music at the time but it was only a lot later I realised how brilliant he was. Shame really.

[@Isleofskye]

@@scaryfakevirus Good story. Where are you now,my friend?

[@scaryfakevirus]

@@Isleofskye Retired, still play guitar and on my third house renovation. Never made it in the music business, but still love the Blues though!

[@zdenkomilos4479]

I heard Rory's "Irish Tour" when I was a kid. I was crazy about rock'n'roll. Somehow, this record found its way to my record player, and it just blew me away. I became a dedicated Gallagher fan. Later on, in the early 80s, I had a chance to see him live in Novi Sad, in former Yugoslavia (today's Serbia). That was one of the best concerts I was at in my life. It was winter, and the roads in Yugoslavia were definitely not the best ones at that time, so the band was a bit late, maybe half an hour. This may have been his first and last tour in Yugoslavia; however, when the band came on the stage, Rory, being such a kind person, promised that he was going to compensate for every minute that we spent waiting. And he did. They played non-stop for four and a half hours, well past midnight. It was a blast, and despite the extended hours, it went so fast. Rory was really an amazing musician and an amazing person.

[@davidfox5942]

ja sam ga tad gledao u BG. najbolji koncert svih vremena. LJUDINA je to bio- za sva vremena.Svirao je srcem i uzivao.

[@allthingsconcerts1]

Another Serbian Rory fan. Youngster, here, I’m 26 and with both my dad are huge admirers of Rory. I have to ephasize one thing - that concert of 4 and a half hours. That is extraordinary. Certanly doesn’t happen nowadays… Great Rory!

[@zdenkomilos4479]

@@allthingsconcerts1 Yes, that was awesome. I remember some kids (punk rock fans) throwing coins and cans at him, and at one time he stopped and asked them politely to stop doing that because he was not a punk rock musician, and believe it or not, they really did stop doing that. Compare that with Eric Burdon, also in Novi Sad, saying to an official magazine photographer, "If you make another picture, I'll shove that camera up your ass..." and more of some other juicy words. The photographer showed him his license and also showed him a finger, and Eric cooled down and continued playing. But he definitely didn't play for four hours.

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

I watched Rory videos while I exercised. I probably watched several hundred hours of concert footage. What always struck me was that the audience and Rory were on the same page. Thanks for this, I've seen most of the interviews before, but it's Rory. Merci.

[@buellosaurusrex4046]

I first heard Rory back around 1978-1979. Right then and there it was like, this guy is the greatest ever! People today ask me as a guitar player who my favorite player is, and when I say without hesitation "Rory Gallagher", most of them say "Roy who?" Rory's style has become my style. Far more than any other guitar player. I saw him in Chicago in 1983 right after Jinx was released and thought I died and went to heaven! Nobody, NOBODY could touch that man's feel for the connection between the guitar and the crowd. Almost inhuman. I recently saw Band Of Friends tribute with Ted McKenna, Gerry MacAvoy and Davey Knowles and while incredible, it was missing the master's touch. Rory will always be #1 in my book.

[@sergeheute7938]

Thank you for the vidéo, the analysis of Brian May is really pertinent.I saw Rory in Paris long time ago , he had the talent, amazing guitarist, his music still lives on.Serge from France.

[@marcusbain8743]

Yes undoubtedly one of the most talented and feeling Guitarist's ever. For me he was a rock/blues player, unbelievable speed and feel. Saw him 1970 +1971 in Philharmonic in Liverpool. Will never forget those gigs. Left us far too early. RIP Rory.🙏

[@ArchieFatcackie]

I saw Rory at the Empire Theatre in my home town of Sunderland in 1974. He was incredible he just blew you away. Taken from us too soon.

[@claymor8241]

I was at that gig. Somebody threw him a Sunderland scarf and he kept it there on his mic stand iirc. Saw him about 11 times, most of them at City Hall up the road.

[@ArchieFatcackie]

@@claymor8241 You’ve just reminded me of that mate, remember it now.

[@thomasmcculey7942]

Rory was a guitar druid I got a chance to see him in a small club in Tempe, AZ in '89. His unique sound is still reverberating.

[@jackietreehorn5561]

Wish I could have seen him live only discovered him about 10 years ago

[@finneguitarplayer9825]

Yes, a Wonderful Player. One of My Favorit Guitarist‘s👏🎸👏🎸👏🎸👍👍👍

[@vilamor007]

I was lucky enough to see Rory in the Olympia in Dublin in the 80s, he didn't need a stage with flashing lights it was just a simple stage but my God what a Legend he was on stage, he was without Doubt and still to this day one of the best Guitarists to ever grace this planet.🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘

[@crashtestbluesmoreblues656]

You got that right!

[@Thedagda801]

I saw him there myself

[@dodibenabba1378]

Rory in 74 was even cooler than Clint Eastwood......

[@michaeldeignan7922]

@Dodi Ben Abba: 6 string slinger ,no doubt! pro kilter with an AXE

[@TreVader1378]

Ooofff that's a very bold claim.

[@lawmantheonetrueking3739]

Bold but probably true

[@TreVader1378]

@@lawmantheonetrueking3739 even when Clint is wasting dirt bags with his 44.

[@glenncaren8268]

dam right dude 👏👏👏

[@sms9106]

Spectacular guitar work and listen to him all the time.

[@1sttvbn]

Always in my top four guitarists. Got to see him in ‘79, or ‘80. Can’t remember it’s been so long. I had just started working at Ford in ‘95 when he passed…Like losing a real piece of my youth. Now I’m soon to retire, and I still put his music on. Have his entire catalog (Taste included) on my ITunes. So, he’s always with me. RIP Rory, and thank you for all the great music.

[@thierryelies7254]

Hope you have the Albert King at Montreux 1977. Rory kills it on 3 tunes.

[@kelvinriordan5833]

On The Boards got me!

[@patrickmichels7888]

I actually saw Rory at winterland around 1977 or so and he absolutely blew me away. His singing guitar work and harmonica were all top notch. Anyway after the show I went to the used record store and got a couple of his albums but they just didn’t have that which I just heard live unfortunately. I never saw him again but never forgot that night when I was 19 or so years old when a giant of a man showed me and everyone there what the blues really were. Thanks Rory

[@geneb.9619]

I saw him in L.A. once with Lonny Mack and Roy Buchanan..incredible show..his playing was just , mesmerizing...then I saw him at a small club in San Pedro..same thing just breath taking..

[@clydekimsey7503]

😯 Wow, 3 great guitarists

[@discernment8963]

3 of the all time most underrated.

[@thierryelies7254]

Woah !!

[@AntalopeAUT]

Rory is unmatched . Just watch him live .

[@barblessable]

film footage is good but doesn't capture the magic of being at a Rory gig , he was fantastic ,so glad I saw him ,,his pure joy on stage and mesmerising playing are unforgettable .

[@thisSOBRocks]

My greatest influences as a guitarists... 5. Alex Lifeson, 4. Stevie Ray Vaughn, 3. Jimi Hendrix, 2. Billy Gibbons, 1. Rory Gallagher... His passion, integrity, and his range of expression on multiple stringed instruments is second to none. G.O.A.T!

[@dingelberryhandpump7834]

Thought I’d never come across somebody with the same influences as you But now I have my good freind

[@lueysixty-six7300]

Let me guess your rig... A BC RICH Warlock...a boss super overdrive....and a BlackStar 40W combo. 😀 Naah, for reals... a MiM Strat (likely sunburst /Rosewood)...a Fender hotrod deluxe... and a generous pedalboard, with SEVERAL overdrives (ts808...klone...blues driver...a JHS Morning Glory) ..several fuzzes (two fuzz faces - one silicon, one germanium...and one tone bender clone)...Aquapuss..Strymon Verb / Delay / Modulation station)... ...a spark boost mini... ...a Boss RC-3 looper... ...a Boss tuner... ...a dedicated buffer pedal...

[@thesjkexperience]

Interesting. The one time I saw Rory was opening for Rush on the Jinx tour. What a show.

[@tomzanone2324]

No Jeff Beck?

[@RByrne]

Hendrix, Rory, Page, May mostly for me. Im adding in Cat Stevens, as his music really inspired me to take up the acoustic.

[@BaronMichaelDeBlone1066]

I had heard of Rory Gallagher (correct pronunciation having Irish ancestry myself is Gallaher) but didn't discover his music until much later as I started working back through influences on musicians who have influenced me and I am still years into that too. I have seen all these very personally revealing interviews at some point with the exception of the final one. Acknowledgements from fellow musicians are always great but this goes deeper than the music. I think Ritchie Blackmore has named his son Rory although this needs verifying. Nice to see somebody go to the trouble of editing them all together. Does anybody actually wish Rory had joined the Stones or Purple for that matter? No disrespect to either band but I personally do not. The worst story I heard other than Rory's death (one of the earliest cases of MRSA following a successful transplant I believe) was Taste getting their gear stolen out of the back of their van at the Isle of Wight Festival. Fortunately he had his guitar with him and was able to borrow equipment (from Hendrix himself?) but the Stratocaster had also previously been stolen and dumped in a ditch almost like it had a life of its own. Favourite track: A Million Miles Away - first time I heard that it gave me goosebumps.

[@edge1289]

One of the best to ever strap on a six string. Sadly Rory never received the recognition he deserved for his talent and that he passed away much too young. “The old bartender is high as a steeple, the piano player is really laying it down……..”

[@fantomas3066]

Rory j'ai eu la chance de le voir 3 fois sur scène et le souvenir est mémorable, immense talent un jeu de guitare époustouflant 👌

[@Victorovore]

​@@fantomas3066 me voilà envieux

[@MrTortureneverstops1]

@@fantomas3066 Je l'ai vu 2 fois à Quimper, la ville de son grand pote Dan Ar Bras ! Dan qui vint faire le boeuf à chaque fin de concert ! Mémorable ! Quelle énergie sur scène !

[@dw89music73]

Rory was an intense yet not over-the-top player.

[@tonymccusker501]

Saw Rory a few times for me the greatest guitarist ever he Could play other instruments as well there's no like him another great guitarist Gary Moore

[@johnoshaughnessy954]

Thank You , what an EXCELLENT VIDEO to a True LEGEND. SADLY MISSED BUT NEVER FORGOTTEN. You did him & his music proud with this Upload. Respect to You🎸

[@JamesWalshBristolKids]

I saw Rory at Massey Hall in Canada. He was phenomenal...He was really fantastic and played even better that night than at the CNE Grounds. I'll never forget how great the Massey Hall show was. He was unstoppable. During the encore of 'Messin With The Kid' he brought the house down.

[@crashtestbluesmoreblues656]

Messin’ with the kid is GREAT!

[@Seventysongs]

I am Brazilian and I am 65 years old. My first contact with Rory was in a Taste collection called "Taste Pop History Vol 2". I liked some specific songs and others not so much... at the time. I was starting to play guitar and shortly after, the Live In Europe album came out. I heard it at a friend's house, I freaked out and ran to a record store to buy one for myself. I loved the whole album but mainly one song tied a knot...in a good way...in my head. "Messin' with the kid" and that guitar where I absorbed every teaching. A real lesson in how to get sounds out of a guitar, subtleties, tones, techniques, feeling in your fingers to do the magic...Rory was showing the way there. A guitar, an amp, some sound drive and your fingers and pick. From Rory I was able to understand and also admire other guitarists I already knew. Since then, whenever I was asked about how to play guitar, I said and said. Listen to Rory Gallagher's solo in Messin With the Kid... there's a lot of what you want and need to know.

[@NigelTuckerGuitarMan]

I also bought Live in Europe, and Messing was a tour in how to get so many tones out of a Strat. He was a genius

[@Seventysongs]

@@NigelTuckerGuitarMan Yes, so many details and subtleties... a genius master.

[@crashtestbluesmoreblues656]

Great interpretation!

[@AndreAmeli]

boa, bacana vc acompanhar desde a epoca, conheci o rory pq um amigo tinha o irish tour, mas só conheci no fim dos anos 90

[@Seventysongs]

@@crashtestbluesmoreblues656 Thank you..all the best.

[@alanbeck5518]

Saw Rory many times at the Ulster Hall,Belfast including Irish Tour ‘74. Definitely the most underrated guitarist but very humble,quiet and a bit shy but he came alive on stage. He was electrifying!😊

[@moushunter]

I think I was the only person in my high school in the mid 70s that knew of Rory and actually had a few of his albums. I've introduced a lot of people to his music. Love watching the KZbin videos of his performances.

[@winstonsmith8240]

I saw Rory when I was a teenager, at the Leicester Polytechnic. He was bloody great. Still remember it, which says a lot. Rip. ( I've got a few of your licks). Gone but not forgotten. ❤

[@nicoledavis6238]

NO NO Not probably...he WAS the finest guitarist ever.....period. Humble, a guitar genius...the rest is history. I was SO fortunate to see him play many times, his playing blew me away every time. Pure genius, you are sorely missed. XX

[@scarfface24]

Brian May says that when he and his mate met Rory, “they were boys”. The funny thing is that, in fact, Brian is one year OLDER than Rory !! Brian says that he was “a kid” and Rory was a star - and I would never discredit his memory (Brian has mentioned this story many times). But this goes to show that Rory was a star while he himself was “a kid” and Brian saw him as an “older” player (even though he was actually younger than him!) just because Rory was already so accomplished and well known ! In any case, both of them (Rory and Brian) have always been two of my very very top favorite guitarists and musicians in general. Both so unique and so kind and gentle! Rory was a true angel of music ...

[@picknick3591]

I was a 'kid' when I first saw Rory at the Marquee Club in 1968 with Taste - 15 ! 🙂

[@indieshack4476]

Thanks for posting this. Rory was a total force of nature - very fan-centric, his live concerts were something to behold! I wasn't aware that he was in line to become part of the Stones, that would have been an odd mix. To my mind Rory's peak was in the early 1970's which culminated in the fantastic album "Irish Tour '74".

[@gerd5479]

There have been many guitarists that play the blues because they want to and some who play it because they have to. Rory was one of the latter and right at the top of the tree. Amazing guitarist and beautiful person.

[@reprintranch]

And one of the most uncompromised rock guitarists I’ve ever learned about. Dude absolutely put his music and his audience before anything else, always. He may not have gotten big financial rewards during his life but he's gonna be remembered with love and respect for a very, very long time.

[@truckerdiablo5819]

I first started listening to Rory when I was 12 went to see him soon after I’m the Ulster hall in 83. The first of 9 times seeing him play. I idolised Rory he blew me away with what he could do with a guitar. I called my son Rory after him. To this day and I’m 50 now I listen to his music every day. Only 2 guitarists have ever blown me away rory gallagher and Dom Martin.

[@richeaton7436]

👍 Time keeps on ticking... Going through a box of old ticket stubs not long ago, My first rock concert May 19, 1973 (Dusty Hill's 24th birthday, I've come to find out) East Tennessee State University Rory Gallagher ZZ Top $4 RIP Rory, Lou, Rod, and Dusty. Thank You!

[@frankmorrow3701]

That must have been a bangin' show!!!

[@richeaton7436]

@@frankmorrow3701 An amazing show. Festival seating and I was maybe 15 feet from the center mic It was about six months before Tres Hombres came out. Rory was pure fire right out of the gate, and I think he had as much fun as anyone. Then, BG and the boys came out. Back when they were the most badass blues rock band that ever was. Straw hats, jeans, no beards (but Frank. lol), and BG in a white tshirt w/ pack of Marlboros rolled up in the sleeve(lol). Needless to say, Rory and BG made a big impression on a 16 yr old. Blues rock, slide guitar nut ever since.

[@garymckown8779]

It's wild to see stars like Alex Lifeson and Brian May, stars due to their guitar playing, both talk about how much of a great guy Rory was.

[@HarryGuit]

In the early seventies Rory was a top act in Europe. Not only his guitar but also his song writing, the lyrics too were most inspiring. He once was the top act in a europe wide live broadcast of a German production “Rock Palast“ where he rocked the whole of Europe for a night. He died too early.

[@crashtestbluesmoreblues656]

I love watching Rory on Rockpalast on a large TV screen

[@wellingtonsboots4074]

I remember going to a midnight screening of Ladies and Gentlemen... Irish Tour 74 was showing with it. It just blew me away. Bought the album the next day. A lot of years ago now but the album has given way for a CD and I still love it.

[@stuartmcgill2291]

One immortal memory for me was going to the Great Western Express Music festival near Lincoln in 1972. The weather was wet, the crowd was drenched-then on came Rory. No-one cared a hoot about the weather after that, particularly when the mandolin came out and "Going to My Home Town" thundered over 50,000 people. The ground shook, the crowd rocked-we were in heaven. I think Hendrix was asked "What is it like being the world's best guitar player?" He responded "I don't know-why don't you ask Rory Gallagher?"

[@cosmicHalArizona]

Really?

[@zillmer448]

@@cosmicHalArizona about the hendrix part? yeah it's true, search on yt, you'll find out

[@picknick3591]

Yep - I went to that festival too !

[@s208richard8]

I was there too, skipping school for it. Rory played 2 sets on successive nights, Friday the 26th, and Saturday the 27th in place of Helen Reddy. We were so privileged to see him in his prime. Humble Pie came along with their own PA for the last day, the festival system was not big enough for them!

[@sallyarmstrong4593]

@@s208richard8 l0

[@malcolmkendall1547]

Excellent video! Thanks so much for highlighting one of my all time favorite guitarists. A friend of mine had arranged to interview him after a show once. Rory walked up and said, "Hi, I'm Rory Gallagher," as if he wouldn't know. A very down to earth and lovely guy, my friend said. According to him, Rory told him he felt he'd reached the peak of his popularity and had a large enough audience to carry on as a working guitar player. Indeed, and I wish it had been for longer. He remains an inspiration in so many ways-thank you for doing him justice.

[@TheMujiFuji]

Love the Brian May story...”It’s easy...rangemaster & an AC 30” Rory was the greatest!!!

[@martinmcdonald4207]

So kind to share his knowledge with the young Brian May.

[@jimipalmer5041]

Pretty cool stuff. I saw Rory in 75 or 76 at an outdoor festival type show in Dayton Ohio. Dude blew away everyone, Nugent, Aerosmith, Boz Skaggs, the only band that matched Rory that day was Rick Derringer, who happens to be born and raised in Dayton.👍✌💖

[@rjj106]

Gone but not forgotten.saw him at the Olympia in Dublin (a great venue) and "self aid" an irish version of band aid (sort of) in dublin RDS. A musician who could blow your socks off. Thanks for putting this together.

[@randysalles2292]

Luckily I had the honor of witnessing this legend up close all in small venues.....always number one in my book....thanku Rory, you owned the stage.

[@jackbukowski987]

I'm only 24, so never had the chance to see him, that's my biggest music's regret. My dad showed me a live of shadow play when i was 12, since this day Rory never left me. He still inspire me to become a great musician. He's the GOAT for me.

[@as400techman]

As a schoolboy I was at a friend's house who played me an L.P. called Taste. I liked it so much I went out and bought On The Boards (I still have it). From that day I was a Rory fan and saw him play about 9 times. He never disappointed.

[@johnholmes912]

Taste was a band that Rory was in ; they played the IOW festival in 1970 IIRC

[@as400techman]

@@johnholmes912 I was there

[@klackon1]

Many years ago, I walked into a friend's room and he was sitting on his bed practising playing his guitar. I noticed he was attempting a piece by Rory Gallagher who, though not unknown to me, was less than mainstream, in my opinion. I asked my friend why he was playing Rory Gallagher and he responded by informing me that Rory was his cousin. After that I felt obliged to listen to, and then appreciate, the great Rory Gallagher. I'm still listening to his albums 50 years later.

[@alistairwilson766]

Seen Rory at a Freshers dance Edinburgh Art College late 60's, you could have cut the air with a knife with what was being smoked there, a couple of dozen mattresses in the middle of the hall and bodies everywhere. Apart from that Rory was immaculate, playing his style of blues, nothing on the planet could touch him or come close. Great Memories.

[@TBlanktim]

I have been an ardent fan of Rory since 1970. And have been lucky enough to see him many times over the years and even traded picks with him! What surprised me in this video were the words of Brian May. I've never been much of a follower of Queen, but May's sound has always caught my ear. Very interesting to hear him talk about Rory. Also, Rory's right hand was amazing and (to me) the source of a big part of his sound. Irish Tour is among the top live recordings ever. Thanks for this video.

[@royshroud9536]

Saw him in a Cork pub one night in the late 70's. He just walked in off the street. Magic.

[@micheal-y8x]

my dad had a pub in cork in the 70's and rory came in whenever he was in cork. Many years later rory's godfather became my brothers father in law. Sadly I don't remember the guy myself.but he was great mates with every one in the pub!

[@robertperry5832]

Three guitarist I hadn't heard of at a mates older brother party in 1974 Rory Gallagher Alvin Lee and Johnny Winter are my go to guitarist to this day .

[@geordieharrower53]

Saw all three. Share the same guitar heroes. Rory was number 1!

[@andrasczehlarik9180]

3 favorite guitarist. R.I.P ALVIN,RORY and JOHNNY.

[@avacondo]

Saw him twice in the '70's. I've never seen a performer enjoy playing for an audience as much as Rory. I saw him in small venues, gymnasiums. Once he was in the middle of a solo, hopping on one leg backwards as he played and he fell right off the stage. All his crew jumped up to help him, then Rory pops up still playing the solo with a huge smile on his face. Died too young.

[@crashtestbluesmoreblues656]

CLASSIC RORY MOMENT!

[@bensmith6107]

Great video , Rory Gallagher is a Legend and his star ⭐️ still shines to this day 🎶☯️

[@bonescdxx]

Dinklesbuhl, Germany. July, 1986. Out in the Green festival. A friend and I, both stationed in Feucht, just outside of Nurnburg, got tickets, mainly to see Jethro Tull and Status Quo. We were so blown away by Rory's set. A real eye opener for two young Americans. I can remember asking my buddy, "Who the Hell is this guy, and why have we never heard of him?!" One of the best live performances I have ever seen. RIP Rory.

[@marcosgomes7681]

He had in those times many many gigs in Germany,I live there for a few years, but I never see him live,bad for me

[@marcosgomes7681]

The Germans loved Rorys music,he had more fans there,than in England

[@stevehall6526]

Just the best, so badly missed for his playing ,his songs and his humour. A king among kings.

[@michaelthompson7341]

Brian May is correct. I was at a concert in 1972 and hung around. We had a kick around in the car park, he had a football in the van. Treated us all with respect. Enjoyed himself but made us feel worthwhile. A lovely man. No ego.

[@zeppelinmexicano]

Rory's natural feel for the instrument made it look easier than it really was. People could have overlooked that.

[@garvarbrummett4958]

Heard Rory live at the country club in Reseda California back in the early 80's. Best show I've ever heard by anyone. A true guitar God. I'm 60 now. But my most prized CD'S are every album Rory put out. He was a true master of his craft. RIP

[@robertasirgutz8800]

Lovely tribute. Gone, but not forgotten. RIP.

[@Bbbbad724]

He was the greatest entertainer of all time who loved to play to small to medium venues, he knew how to pace a show and read a crowd for what they loved to hear. He could be reserved and ethereal, to completely outrageous and always a virtuoso.

[@Mick_7878]

Check out the videos of his live performances. GOAT! The fact that, by all accounts, he was also a really great and humble guy - is icing on the cake. Love the fact that he didn’t “sell out” to the record co’s with a bunch of ‘pop’ songs. A true artist!

[@ronanoboyle8432]

Gallagher is one of the most underrated guitarists. He was a phenomenal talent.