The Guitar 1980-1989 | Rock Guitar Heroes

[@danieldonegan8433]

Stevie Ray Vaughan, single handedly revived blues in the 1980's. One of the greatest of all time.

[@lunohodsv7723]

И играл на 13-58 струнах.

[@jacknick429]

AMEN !!! STEVIE FREAKIN RAY FREAKIN VAUGHAN - THE Texas Tornado !!!

[@gosman949]

@@jacknick429 yes a Texas boy! Stevie Ray and barbecue!

[@elc1960]

Yep, my all time favorite. He and Gary Moore belong on EVERY list of all time great guitarists.

[@steveforst5163]

Stevie Ray Vaughn left no stone un-covered during his solo's. He took you places you had not been before; He showed you things you had not seen and expressed an emotion from his guitar that grabbed you right in the chest. And this coming from a drummer!

[@KingReyhanShippey]

R.I.P to my favorite guitarist of all time and in the whole world The Great Eddie Van Halen.

[@markallen2558]

Yes he was An amazing player and creator of tones and sounds. He will always be a guitar God EVH RIP

[@symbiosisai]

I perfer Vai, he took it even further EVH

[@unicornhorn6662]

@@symbiosisai very cool! thank you for sharing your awesome opinion big guy

[@beachcomber4141]

There was a reason he was number one on Rick's list of innovators!!!

[@jayteesgear]

Im still not settled with losin him man. 🙏🏻

[@chaos1961]

Stevie Ray Vaughan should be part of the innovators category as well as the blues base category. Truly a genius.

[@dripstein6130]

He’s not an innovator he just played with the most intensity, Blackmore was doing all his licks years before SRV just raped the guitar

[@michaelvanbuskirk8845]

I agree 100%! SRV single handedly brought the blues to a new generation. He was incredible.

[@markwilmeth3082]

@@ShrimplyPibblesJr Then you should he was GREAT!!!

[@delanoarts3703]

I'll agree he was great should be included

[@CassianSt05]

I agree!

[@fluntimes]

Jason Becker was the most gifted guitarist from this era in my opinion. What he did up until age 20 when he got ill was phenomenal.

[@Katharsis540]

Agree!

[@gasimafonja1]

True

[@urbsurbisf]

Yyyyyup

[@jacksonredd_]

Absolutely correct, the fact that he composed and played the Perpetual Burn album at 16-17 just screams prodigy

[@michaelharrington75]

Yep. Air is an incredible song!

[@theresabeckerdite4638]

Finally Michael Schenker gets mentioned....the Maestro has influenced guitar players spanning over several decades and still kicks ass today....thanks for the mention and thank you Michael Schenker for sharing your talent to us all.

[@craigbutterfield592]

Always been my favorite

[@ANGUSYOUNGISMYGOD]

Rudolf Schenker

[@craigbutterfield592]

@@ANGUSYOUNGISMYGOD Uli, Michael and Matthias. Rudolph generally played rhythm, with some exceptions. Superb song writers, he and Klaus, best of the very best

[@mechanic6682]

I searched through and watched this video specifically for that reason because I've never heard Rick mention him or UFO. I Macauley Schenker at a tiny club in Oakland in around 84 or 85. Saw Robin Trower there too. I was like 5 feet from both.

[@tryghanson3260]

Schenker @ 12:18 Great Flow. Michael is my fave because he is fast AND melodic.

[@rickyr1528]

Rikk Emmett from triumph....amazing guitarist and vocalist of the 80s

[@seanmiller7889]

Yes for sure!

[@amusicalheart7]

Forgot about Rikk. Yes he's amazing. Prince was an amazing too while I'm thinking about it.

[@4MWPhoto]

Yes, Rik is a big oversight.

[@fredflintstone427]

@@amusicalheart7 - Prince put on a great show but he was no match for these guys in raw skills.

[@s977382]

Absolutely! Great phrasing and very eclectic style

[@ginpok6640]

Alex Lifeson is like no one else! Effortless switching from picking to blasting chords mixing in small keynotes along the way lend the illusion of two guitars players when it's only one.

[@udsmall7306]

yeah it was pretty cool to see/hear him up close- I was front row for the awesome '81 Moving Pictures tour at the old Spectrum in Philly! Great show...loud af! Alex flicked a pick right to me- saw me catch it, we laughed...great moment! 🎸🔊🎼🤘👍

[@seangeist9495]

Right on! Agreed. Fan of Alex for 4 decades now...cheers.

[@udsmall7306]

@@ZafriusRasnake huh! I ahh...assume it was for the acoustic to electric changeover on "Closer to the Heart"? 🎸🎼🤔

[@michaelj4694]

I can't think of another guitarist that could have complimented Neil and Geddy or played to their caliber like Alex. He always stayed in his lane and shined when he needed to. Rush is one of the best bands ever. Geddy, Neil, and Alex are all humble but gifted musicians.

[@cheenu711]

Everytime I hear George Lynch's playing i get goosebumps. IMO he was only second to EVH.

[@PaulPaid]

Hands down the best tone....ever.

[@martinafan64]

@@PaulPaid What gear (pickups, pedals, amp) did he use in his signal chain? I've always loved his tone.

[@brianwaller2022]

Lynch was better than Eddie 💯🤟 But hey to each their own ✌️🪓🪓

[@PaulPaid]

@@brianwaller2022 I definitely prefer George's tone to Eddie's. And that's saying a Lot because Eddie's tone is world class. Eddie's was the better songwriter though..if course.

[@__jabird__2635]

You gotta love Mr. Scary

[@jimfromoh8944]

SRV. Glaring omission. Blackmore. Ioammi. Steve Howe. Tom Scholz. Massive innovators. No one sounded like them before they did their things.

[@outtascope]

So did Schon and many others on the list, but Scholz was still killing me in the 80's. Friggin' genius to boot.

[@webodrums3518]

@SabuPtolemy Jimmy Page and others showed up in the 70's no guitar list is complete with out the inventor of heavy metal(Iommi) and the father of neo classic(Blackmore)

[@Bradmarg1111]

@@outtascope I think Tom Scholz just had that unique sound. One of a kind !

[@gumnuts7680]

Tom was mentioned in the seventies clip!

[@VideosVarious2]

I gotta agree! Especially TOM SCHOLZ. NOBODY had his tone, because nobody but HIM Knew how to BUILD the electronic effects units to 'achieve' what we all know as "The 'BOSTON'-Sound!" Innovator, Composer, Musician, Lyricist. I'd dare say Tom Scholz was, and is, a QUADRUPLE-THREAT.

[@stevenwest7933]

So glad for the mention of Alex Lifeson. He is so often overlooked on many lists of guitar players, but truly he is one of the best ever. An amazing body of work that spans 40+ years. La Villa Stangiato is my favorite guitar solo of all time.

[@james35856]

Steven took the words out of my mouth👍

[@dudley0826]

The live one from Exit Stage Left is the best

[@poindextertunes]

steven west his solo in YYZ changed my whole outlook on scales

[@JB4375]

Check out the KZbin channel Blobblob22. Call me crazy, but I think it's actually Alex playing and he's just messing with us.

[@Fred-vy1hm]

So many iconic opening riffs as well.

[@kennethsease8089]

Ritchie blackmore for tone and leaving space in the song. A huge influence for me. It's been 47 years and I still love playing

[@seanlanders4180]

Richie is definitely more of a 70s character but yes

[@Grahm1993]

70s

[@arno3417]

I agree with u bro, ! But now I find another solo guitarist from Indonesia! Please check channel alip ba ta, the amazing finger style of this century!!!!

[@tedborg6323]

Rick might have been scared as a kid by a clown who looked like Ritchie. B.t.w. remember him as he was back in the days, i saw Rainbow in 2019 and it was sad to see the shadow of himself he has become.

[@tedborg6323]

....and no Ritchie, no Yngwie

[@obiwonton369]

Rhoads, Malmsteen, Lynch, SRV, Slash and of course EVH most impactful axe men of 80's hard rock, blues, metal which was the golden age of shred guitarist.

[@glenishii2022]

Rik Emmett absolutely shreds and can wail like nobody’s business...

[@johnsercu7623]

Agreed. Rik Emmett should get some recognition.

[@user-ni2mz6pn5f]

@@johnsercu7623 i totally agree with u!...Rik was awesome to see live...plus he could sing while shredding

[@maxxwick246]

I concur \m/

[@MauricioCaran]

Sadly you forgot Dave Murray and Adrian Smith from Iron Maiden and Glen Tipton and k.k downing from Judas.. Those 4 guys influenced tons of peoples and did iconic work on their respective bands.

[@eog5217]

Agreed. Glenn Tipton is an incredible player. His hand synchronization is incredible, he can create beautiful melodies, he can shred, and he doesn’t use a lot of gain either. Most underrated lead player ever.

[@raymondmccollum2382]

Dave and Adrian are probably the greatest dual lead attack in my opinion. But I put K.K. and Glen right there as well

[@StarDollar]

When it comes to Iron Maiden, Rick dosen't seem to recognize them at all.

[@richardandre866]

RRHOF and now Rick. Poor Iron Maiden. They can’t get a break.

[@edgarbower8089]

This guy NEVER recognizes or acknowledges Iron Maiden. What’s his problem???

[@chuckmadden2251]

Adrian Belew-innovators. Twang Bar, Open Tuning, Feedback Master. New Sounds.

[@drdexter33]

Wow.. Yeah..completely original innovator. Amazing player. Good call.

[@ptose]

Adrian is a fantastic player. I'm not sure I would mention him only because he was already playing in the seventies (a bit like Fred Frith), but I definitely agree I would choose him over a lot of the virtuosos of the list. Marc Ribot is another incredible guitarist who sould be there.

[@stevemoulton9586]

+100

[@drdexter33]

Elephant Talk.

[@ptose]

the Great curve is one of my favorite songs ever! Those angular solos are just amazing.

Vivian Campbell's solo on "Holy diver" is one of the best metal solos of all time.

[@Ilovephilcollen]

everything vivans done is just top tier

[@Fearzero]

Gary Moore clone

[@trickthaddy]

Yes

[@trickthaddy]

Absolutely

[@vikkiroxx]

Vivian Campbell is one hell of an underrated guitarist. He played magically on first Dio albums.

[@ecatalan98]

Faustyczny Ikar at least he got mentioned. The amazing Akira Takasaki from Loudness was also missing. I'd put him in this list instead of Mick Mars any day!

[@peytonbrezski]

Ernesto Catalan he’s on the list at 9:03

[@mastersupreme6126]

Faustyczny Ikar underrated tus nalgas!

[@poulwinther]

@@michaelr.4878 A feat. Iommi had mastered for more than a decade at that point.

[@cristongumban2086]

Vito Bratta of White lion, such an killer melodic guitar player! 🎸💥🎶

[@orion8012]

Word! A lot of these guys on the list are just masturbating compared to Vitos superb clean composing and playing.

[@ronjamhey9851]

Thank you! Love Vito's style

[@ihackmobile]

What song is that solo Vito plays?

[@victordeville6973]

@@ihackmobile It’s the solo from ”Wait” 👌🏻

[@andrejz8954]

A killer*

[@londonuk70]

Stevie Ray Vaughn and Rory Gallagher, two of the best guitar players.

[@PerpetuallyTiiiiiired]

Metal and rock players

[@bobbybruno8752]

isawrorygallagerin cleveland doing asong called messin with the kid hes great .

[@gtrDan1963]

Rik Emmett of Triumph ; Like Steve Howe and Steve Morse, Rik is comfortable in almost any style from Metal to Blues to Jazz to country stylings. Often overlooked because he was a member of Canada's 2nd most popular power trio.

[@luckyhaskins69]

rik emmett! 100%

[@reaganhamitlon4703]

I've always thought Neil Giraldo was an underrated player. He's a great songwriter and a huge part of Pat Benatar's sound.

[@mikesteelheart]

My jaw drops every time I hear the solo on Heartbreaker! Neil also was smart to embrace the 80's pop movement in his sound instead of shunning it. The synth drum machine esq groove on Love is a Battlefield is just incredible...

[@Mr.56Goldtop]

He played the solo on Jessie's Girl. I've always really liked his sound. There's a great interview with him here on KZbin where he explains his sound, and other things.

[@dystopiagear6999]

Indeed! Neil wrote hooks. Melodies. People who never touched an instrument in their lives can sing along to his solos, not just the choruses. They will notice if you play his stuff wrong, because it's so memorable. That's what made him great.

[@barryg.schroader324]

Absolutely! 🎸

[@mattmitchell6390]

Yeah!!! He was a huge influence on me in the eighties!

[@aaronlessard4754]

It is truly remarkable the impact Eddie Van Halen had on everyone…

[@roderickstevens6891]

He was truly a major master of guitar

[@leoniea138]

Yes .

[@bobbyj3701]

No one better!

[@grief_hammer]

I'd add Robert Fripp under innovators, for his 80s Krimson work, and the stuff with Bowie/Eno. Also he became a strong alt picker in this period as well- as demonstrated in the interlocking guitar work he did with Adrian Belew.

[@whycantiremainanonymous8091]

And Adrian Bellew

[@kevgamble]

Fripp & Belew were astounding together; those two with Tony Levin were a stunning guitar lineup.

[@alexsoft9120]

Yeah.I wonder why Rick never talk about King Crimson. Probably, KC does not so wellknown and popular in US as it does in the rest world.

[@barrycw1]

Fripp is probably the original innovator and his work with Belew and the rest of King Crimson was amazing. Those two are major innovators of a different class . I know that Vito Bratta is mentioned here but his playing had such melody, phrasing and originality that many of his 80's (hairmetal) contemporaries now sound stale and formulaic by comparison. It is too bad Vito totally turned his back on the rock and roll lifestyle.

[@grief_hammer]

I'd also add that Fripp continues to innovate throughout his career - always using new technology and equipment.

[@elc1960]

To really appreciate Jeff Healey's playing you had to watch him from up close, as I had the chance to do (approx. 6-7 feet away from him) at a club in Springfield MA called Mikara's in 1995. A blind man, playing with his guitar in his lap and shredding plus how fast he was able to play, plus how he was able to bend notes in ways others couldn't was incomprehensible.

[@mechanic6682]

Likecat a Roadhouse?

[@elc1960]

@@mechanic6682 In the words of Peter Griffin: "Roadhouse!"

[@jimedick9496]

Here’s one of my all time favorites! He was also a hell of a jazz player as well.

[@brittanystevens1507]

One of the most underrated guitar players definitely is Frank Hannon of Tesla. Simply amazing

[@chrisb9257]

Yup. Kept watching for Frank. Just scrolling through comments to see if he'd been mentioned.

[@TheAbesar]

Yes

[@vincentchambers6401]

Well with a name like Hannon, you'd have to expect amazing scale based chops. ;-)

[@noelstemple]

BOOM! ..you stoled mine 👍

[@SDesWriter]

The guys from Tesla and the guys from queensrÿche don't get enough appreciation for the contributions they made to that era of rock music. Great players, but even better composers that gave us some amazing songs and solos that most definitely stand the test of time.

[@artturnerjr]

Prince, Adrian Belew, Thurston Moore & Lee Ranaldo (Sonic Youth), Bruce Springsteen, Bob Mould (Hüsker Dü, solo), D. Boon (Minutemen), Greg Ginn (Black Flag, Gone), SRV...

[@bluesvertigo3961]

Lee Ranaldo and Thirston Moore were definitely creative with their manipulation of noise and effects. That should have been a separate category. Not to forget several melodic lines throughout the SOnic Youth catalogue.

[@dylanbaxter4092]

Also Scott "wino' Weinrich and Larry LaLonde

[@artturnerjr]

You could probably do a vid of just the guitarists in SST bands. In addition to the ones we've already mentioned, there's Curt Kirkwood (Meat Puppets), J Mascis (Dinosaur Jr.), Kim Thayil and Chris Cornell (Soundgarden), Dr. Know (Bad Brains), Joe Baiza (Saccharine Trust, Universal Congress Of)... etc. They had a stellar line-up back in the day. Probably the greatest indie label of all time.

[@JeffyHop]

I’m glad you mentioned Vitto Bratta. Unbelievably melodic for a rock guitarist, and yes, incredible phrasing!

[@HelenamariaRusso]

Hello 😊

[@dcamnc1]

Eric Johnson is the only one of these guys that gives me chills when I hear him.

[@mattmitchell6390]

Yes! Absolutely!

[@yaantsudnbesdai972]

I don't get the 'chills' when I listen to Eric... I get the 'hots'.........the "Hyena hots"..........

[@brianwaller2022]

George Lynch does the same for me🤟💯

[@alexsuperpower1]

Some more that I would have included: Chris Oliva - Savatage Wolf Hofmann - Accept Dave Mustaine - Megadeth John Norum - Europe Dave Murray/Adrian Smith - Iron Maiden Glen Tipton/K.K downing - Judas Priest Jeff Carlisi - 38 Special Steve Lynch - Autograph Buck Dharma - Blue Oyster Cult Akira Takaski - Loudness Ronni le Tekro - TNT

[@garaleo6185]

Sat in lunch everyday w/a seemingly shy Paul Gilbert in high school in the early 80s, few knew he was home honing his skills to blow minds and shread on stages around the world ! Ya could be sitting next to a future great !!

[@mr.ormrs.greene9737]

You friends today?

[@garaleo6185]

@@mr.ormrs.greene9737 unfortunately having seen him since high school ,I really can't say we were friends ,not enemy's either ,just class mates ,but he was a good kid overall !!

[@michaelcard9382]

Yeah he is very nerdy but very likeable..now he's goin with this wierd Mr Magoo look

[@michaelcard9382]

Alright I take back my comment in your other video about greatest solos lol..At least u included George lynch my guitar hero and u also mentioned many others ID forgotten about but had their cassettes n CDs..thnx man,great video and u did cover so many greats n couldn't have been easy to edit a video like this so hats off to your dedicacation n commitment to this 👍🔥💪

[@onemancarnage]

Yeah I live in Greensburg as well . I didn't sit with him though.

[@scottwilson2344]

Chris Olivia from Savatage. Could play super fast & with so much melody..his solos were like songs, you can remember them all because his phrasing was incredible..rip..his brother Jon Olivia started Trans Siberian Orchestra With producer Paul O'Neill & was basically Savatage..who has other great guitarists Al Pitrelli & Chris Cafferty

[@bradanderson3828]

Scott Wilson Oliva. Caffery.

[@eightieslou]

Very underrated guitar player.

[@scottwilson2344]

@@bradanderson3828thanks for the correction

[@alext7860]

I saw both of these guys in my late teens

[@rockriverash3120]

Criss was awesome and is still one of my top favorites that I often listen to.... loudly!! 🙂 I was lucky enough to see Savatage on the "Hall Of The Mountain King" tour in '88, opening for Dio.....that was a fabulous show.... just looked at my ticket stub (yes, I kept those) and Megadeth was on the bill too....wow those were the best times! Criss was sensational and that Savatage show is forever one of my top favorites! 🎸🎶🙏🤘

[@CJ_Blues]

Steve Stevens, Wolf Marshall, and Gary Hoey (to name a few). Carlos Santana made an incredible comeback in that era as well

[@docsworld1369]

Joe Satriani had an album called Not of This Earth before Surfing with the Alien. I have it on cassette.

[@beachcomber4141]

I caught that one as well.

[@thomasbrandt8265]

Yes Not of this earth i believe was his first album. 1986 ?

[@oscaudio1440]

And before that, in 1984, he released an EP he recorded at home, it has songs like Talk to me, Banana Mango, etc.

[@aladams684]

Yes he did. I ordered it from the back of Guitar World from an ad. Not Of This Earth was Satch's first solo album that was widely available in guitar circles even if it wasn't widely available in music stores. I think he should have brushed up on some of these guys because while the list is spot on, his history lesson on them is somewhat lacking. And......no footage of Randy Rhoads (which I found very easily) even though he was mentioned very briefly.

[@SeanSinykin]

I remember it well. Hordes of Locusts is one of his best tunes.

[@patrickgambill9326]

Pretty cool list. Only question I have is where are Stevie Ray Vaughn and Prince

[@Whiskey10209]

Would you consider either “rock” or “metal”? Prince certainly had some rock influences but I don’t know if I’d put him in that category. He had a lot of funk, soul, blues, pop going on as as well. Vaughn was straight up blues.

[@patrickgambill9326]

@@Whiskey10209 I think a case could be made for Stevie Ray Vaugn's influence on rock, even though he is a lot bluesier than the other musicians listed under the blues category. Also, Stevie's biggest influence was Hendrix, who is considered by most to be a rock player

[@JungleScene]

perhaps he left out SVR because he had mostly a blues style

[@Whiskey10209]

Patrick Gambill he influenced rock. He wasn’t rock.

[@OtherTheDave]

At least WRT SRV, I’d guess there’s a fair chance he’ll get his own video. Also, he’s certainly not metal, and I wouldn’t really call him rock, either. Prince is more pop than rock IMHO.

[@mikedtubey]

im an 80's guitarist in the vain of eddie van halen, steve vai, satch but i learned a lot from the chops of Elliot Easton - The Cars, loved his style of playing.

[@geraldfriend256]

His solos were perfect and to the point.

[@sdemosi]

Lovely phrasing. Man I really liked Cars

[@udsmall7306]

no fluff, no filler...in and out, tight and clean! 🎸🎼👍

[@DblakeDeathMetal89]

Agree one of my earliest favorite tunes by them was “Just What I Needed” I must of been about 4 or 5yrs old and my parents always listened to classic rock stations on the radio and one day I heard that song and instantly loved it but I didn’t know who it was by or the name of it but I tried explaining it to my mom but she couldn’t figure it out. Until one day we’re riding in the car and I remember getting excited to finally show her which song I was talking about and she told me who it was by and the name and I’ll never forget that childhood memory that started my absolute love/obsession for music! Everything about that song just fit perfectly and the solo was great!

[@mikedtubey]

@@DblakeDeathMetal89 Awesome!!!

[@LightsCameraKonkle]

Great piece. Also love the little title notes like “notice the pinky”. This is what makes Rick the best at what he does. Enthusiasm and knowledge.

[@TTommy90125]

SRV, Prince, Jeff Watson, Orianthi, John Petrucci, Steve Stevens, Robert Fripp, Billy Gibbons, Ritchie Blackmore, Carlos Santana, etc...

[@colinsfasah]

I think Rick thinks SRV is for Blues, Prince is R&B, Petrucci is Prog Rock including Fripp, but Blackmore and Gibbons and Santana should have been included...but the list is very personal for each of us...

[@paulcarr5918]

Fripp was more 60's and 70's than 80's. Blackmore and Sanatana were also more in the 70's category. SRV was not rock. Have to remember the the category here is 80's rock, not just all good/great guitar players.

[@keithmendez6915]

@@paulcarr5918 Fripp did incredible work in the 80s.... Discipline, Beat, & Three Of A Perfect Pair were fabulous, and every bit as groundbreaking as anything he did in the late 60s and 70s.

[@daniellesnick9256]

Orianthi was born in '85 and started playing guitar at age 6. Technically speaking, she wasn't even a guitarist in the '80s.

[@TTommy90125]

@@daniellesnick9256 You're right. Thanks for the correction!

[@paoloberti1949]

Vito Bratta was a master of melody,creativity and technique.... What an amazing talented guy we have lost wen he decided to stop.......

[@kirwan1414]

Vito to me was the perfect blend of technique and melody. An unbelievable player and incredibly underrated. My favourite musician ever.

[@michaelsavides8856]

Even though Vito was sick as hell, I always felt he was an evh clone.. am I wrong?

[@paoloberti1949]

@@michaelsavides8856 If You listen with attencion his Music he have a Very personal stile in solos and melodic ritmic with lots of singolar Picking... May be at the first impression but is not vie same Style....Vito created his personal Tone

[@mikebrowne477]

I think I listen to his version of "Radar Love" at least four times a year. Beyond brilliant. Way too good for a band like White Lion. Same with Reb Beach and Winger, but at least we got to hear Reb unleased with Dokken and now he's playing with Whitesnake.

[@jimmycorral9644]

Totalmente de acuerdo, es uno de los grandes

[@RogerSullivanNOLA]

Richie Kotzen is a huge omission. One of the best guitar players (by far), songwriters and singers out of the era.

[@BrettFunkGuitar]

Do I know you from somewhere? :D

[@KowankoMusic]

I'd say he made his mark primarily in the 90s

[@Gatorzilla1]

Have a TON of his stuff. GREAT player and singer!!

[@terrycrotts2522]

Ritchie is badass

[@johngraham5461]

Richie Kotzen is Amazing, he has like 25 solo albums. He did albums with Poison, Mr. Big temporarily replacing CC DeVille and Paul Gilbert. He was a pubic hair away from being Ozzy's guitarist. And he is still puting out music with The Winery Dogs, and solo stuff.

[@jgappsab]

Missing SRV is par for the course on many lists. When guys like B.B. King and Eric Clapton give him praises, you know SRV is not only legit but a badass. His studio and live covers of Voodoo Chile and Little Wing are amazing. He added his own touches without messing up the original. Life By the Drop is a classic. It is very minimalistic, just him and the guitar.

[@michaelellis562]

Thank you!!

[@muskyman1018]

And written for him by his friend and former band mate who’s family life won out over taking to the road with double trouble.

[@garymccowan7155]

Have always loved Dave "Buck Dharma" Roeser from Blue Oyster Cult! He can play anything from "Last Days of May" to "Buck's Boogie" to "The Alchemist". So many different riffs and styles.

[@richardmitchell8213]

Buck is great, good mention.

[@kellyreinoso4827]

Donald, yes. Page agreed.

[@tonym994]

and Buck Dharma.(thanx, Gary)absolutely deserves a spot on one of these lists. I saw them open for ALICE COOPER when I was about 15. '72 maybe. we were all flabbergasted by their scraping their fretboards together for that monstrous sound. but his leads belong w/ these guys.

[@thans2838]

Probably one of the most underrated guitarists in rock history.

[@SEEININFRARED]

I would have to say Dave Mustane, of Megadeth. He also had Marty Freidman with him for a while. Even though Dave did a lot of rhythm guitar. He is a fantastic shredder, who also has a very unique style. My personal opinion of course.

[@darth-imperius]

We should have had MegaDave in here, instead of Kirk's wah wah obsession. I like Kirk just fine, I'm just sick of his wah wah.

[@SnowTheJamMan]

LOL i love how in the shredder segment for everyone you went like "great technique" or "great melodic phrasing" and for Kirk you were just "loves wah" "good lick" :D

[@CorbCorbin]

HaliniSnow Should've added, plays what was needed for the song.

[@CorbCorbin]

MehYam2112 Yeah, the guy saying he's an embarrassment, to anyone, is proof of the amount of hate Hammett gets for being overrated. He is very underrated, especially as far as he is the lead guitarist on four very influential albums, thatvarent overrated, imo. Metallica changed their style up, and he went with it, and they never thought of replacing him. Well.....maybe Lars has, on certain days when in a mood. So meh, to that dude's opinion, for sure. Satriani is not embarrassed to call Hammett a former student.

[@jeffirwin7862]

It's a good lick, but it's not _the_ lick.

[@MathiasSteenJensen]

The inclusion of Reb Beach and ESPECIALLY Dann Huff warms my heart. Dann Huff and his band Giant were VASTLY underrated

[@maestroaxeman]

Reb is a cool guy, I umderstand😎 I hear it alot🎶🎸👍 Talented guitarist for sure🎸🎶😎 We're both PA residents & I was working on meeting him...but, alas...I happen to be an avid Beavis & Butthead fan (although I was ironically ALSO a WINGER fan as a result of the show...despite the flack)...& that didn't seem to go over well...so communications unfortunately "tapered off" before I got to talk🤔 Reb is definitely underrated & extremely skilled🎶🎸😎

[@Win7ermu7e]

Reb Beach and Dave Meniketti were great under-rated inclusions.

[@Dan_Dearborn]

I think Dan Huff and Steve Lukather played on every song in the 80's!

[@Gynra]

I am amazed that Tom Scholz of Boston is not among the innovators. His sound is unique, and he is not a bad player either!

[@darylbernard2616]

Check the 1970-1979 video.

[@jeffwall3867]

Wrong era.

[@bobbyj3701]

@@jeffwall3867 Not a shredder in my opinion anyway!.

[@renatogomes2396]

Van Halen, Uli John Roth, George Lynch, Randy Roades, Malmsteen and Akira Takasaki. The best of all times

[@josephtlaforce9853]

*Rhoads

[@Nobody2879]

@@josephtlaforce9853 *Roadie

[@richardmitchell8213]

It's interesting that you mentioned Akira Takasaki. He really kinda stands alone as one of the most famous Japanese guitar players, but I do know of another who was fantastic. He was from Los Angeles, CA. and his name was Alan Mirikitani of "BB Chung King and the Screaming Buhda Heads". Started as a Rock and Metal guy, then became a massive Blues guy. He is well known among his peers, grew up with George Lynch in Downey, CA. Check him out sometime.

[@dimitrisvill1411]

And Jason Becker.

[@mckwilly]

Lynch was always underrated and his later stuff he really evolved and shined

[@ffdfds8383]

I've always loved Steve Stevens' playing whether with Generation X or his solo work afterwards.

[@kospandx]

Steve Stevens is great, but he was never in Generation X.

[@nickhewitt6344]

Steve Stevens plays a mean Flamenco Guitar check out his version of crazy train fucking awesome!

[@heavymetalhero08]

His work with Billy Idol, Alice Cooper, and Michael Jackson!

[@edgarbower8089]

Amazing how you always neglect to talk about the players in Judas Priest and Iron Maiden! Some of the greatest soloing ever, and VERY influential!!

[@tomre2769]

Glenn Tipton was my favorite player :-) But I love JP.

[@VideosVarious2]

You have a point. Dave Murray & Adrian Smith were pretty 'shreddy' for sure. They also had 'melodic'- sense. But at the time, and I was in High School then, I was more into early Def leppard, RATT, DOKKEN, AC DC, and Van Halen. But I DEFINITELY respected MAIDEN, and I loved PRIEST'S 'British Steel' album back then. Also dug all the 70s rock (Led Zep, AC DC, April Wine, RUSH,). And later, local heroes like legendary KANSAS, SHOOTING STAR,.and BANSHEE which (BANSHEE) I felt like they should've been bigger than they got. But they had to get out of the ATLANTIC contract with lawyers, Tommy Lee Flood said, in an interview on KZbin here a while back. ATLANTIC was trying to make BANSHEE 'puke out' albums, I gather. That maneuvering didn't work with Tom Scholz of BOSTON, so you'd have thought the record labels would've 'learned' from other labels making the mistake of trying to employ that foolish and unprofitable tactic of trying to 'pressure' the artists on thier label to 'churn out annually an album. It doesn't WORK.

[@juanpabloperez9063]

@@VideosVarious2 who is the better, Smith or Murray?

[@VideosVarious2]

@@juanpabloperez9063 I think Murray & Smith complement each other. Like Wilton and DeGarmo of Queensryche, if you take away 'one' the band's sound isn't the same, because thier songs won't be the same. A terrible reality RATT had to face, when they decided to allow DeMartini to 'overshadow' Crosby, all because, and this is just 'my' suspicion, because what 'seemed' to be the Guaranteed 'Commercially Successful 'formula' was a 'Van Halen-Cookie Cutter'.band layout, and they didn't realize until it was too late that thier 'Twin-guitar' layout of Crosby & DeMartini already WAS the Commercially Successful ("WINNING") 'Layout.'

[@juanpabloperez9063]

@@VideosVarious2 i dont think Crosby was a good lead guitar, he barely played pentatonic scales, i think than he also was a bad rythmic guitar player, and not a smart guy at all

[@sparkomatic100]

Tony Iommi, the master of riff for decades!

[@painiscupcake5433]

70's was his decade

[@davidroldan8998]

Painis Cupcake yeah, but Gilmour in the 80s?

[@scottbogfoot]

Jeff Healy! Too good to be fully appreciated by today's guitar enthusiasts, you'll never see anyone like him ever again.

[@Greencastles23]

Thanks for noticing Neil Schon- many people gloss over him, but he's a fantastic player.

[@caratcranker5874]

Neil is totally brilliant. He had a LIGHTNING left hand, he could call on in a SHORT breath anytime.

[@lawrencedavis5459]

Agreed!

[@OZRIC1985]

Neal Schon is one of my all-time favorites! His playing can be so powerful, yet incredibly musical and melodic. His solos always fit every song like a glove. A brilliant guitar player! :)

[@needahandle]

Yes. He is a complete player. Tone, technicality, feel

[@stoneysdead689]

Randy Rhodes is the reason I started wanting to play electric, rock guitar- but at 49 Andy Summers and The Edge are really more the style of players that I really look up to. They have not only a very deep technical understanding of theory and technique but also the ability to listen to these unbelievable melodies and then create the perfect backdrop for them. It feels organic- like you can imagine that melody literally sprouting from the landscape they created, it belongs there. I wish I knew how to say what I'm trying to say- hope it made sense.

[@treff9226]

You said it well! The Edge has created some of the most gorgeous guitar sonics imaginable and Andy is truly unique, creativity and tone, always playing for the song and with the " less more " philosophy.

[@floydloonie4880]

I would love to see Rick Emmett from Triumph on one of your guitar players lists. While Triumph is not one of my favorite bands, Rick Emmett was outstanding in my opinion. I really like the content you put out!! Thank you for the entertainnment you provide us viewers!!

[@alfonsogutierrez5422]

Triumph..world of fantasy

[@coffeemachtspass]

A band with some great moments mostly provided by his voice and really versatile guitar.

[@millercgr]

Emmett is a brilliant guitarist. One of my favorites. His acoustic playing in a quasi-classical style is also quite superb.

[@Matthew-le1eq]

floyd loonie Love Rik Emmett as well

[@colinsfasah]

Rock and Roll machine would work here as well as "The Blinding Light show..."

[@robw9986]

Nice to see Vivian Campbell in there. Loved his work with Dio.

[@andrejz8954]

Also riverdogs and now last in line. One of my faves as well!

[@ThumperzGG]

Agreed also Craig Goldy wrote some great stuff with Dio and even covered Vinnys songs kinda better in my opinion live. Dio live in philly 1986 Craig goes nuts! Never the less Rowan Robertson a god as well wrote lock up the wolves!

[@gibson617ajg]

It was a pity he slagged off RJD when he left Dio to follow the money. Goblins and Wizards eh?

[@GravesoftheInnocent]

Neil Schon is definitely one of my top 3 guitar idols.

[@markwillie]

Frank Marino (Mahogany Rush) is one of the greatest guitar players of all time. Not only is he a monster player, he also has been the singer and front man for almost five decades. His musicianship influenced many guitar players such as Zakk Wild, Johnny Winter, Joe Bonamassa, Paul Gilbert, Marty Friedman, Steve Vai and many others. Frank is highly underrated and has not received the notoriety he deserves because he wouldn't sell out his music to the record label executives for money. Frank Marino is a legend!

[@johnmckenna9038]

No but he is one of the beast,

[@blahmcduh]

No matter who puts out these "best of" lists, Frank is ALWAYS omitted. Why? Is it ignorance, or some un-founded prejudice, or just dislike for some other reason? Beats me! Many of the players on Rick's list have publicly stated that Frank was a positive influence to their musical careers. Every time I saw him live I was just amazed at his tone, technique, phrasing, clarity, and all the other adjectives that can be applied to a great guitarist like Frank. So underrated and just ignored - I just don't understand it!

[@DanielHoerle-ww9so]

yep, hes my fav. plays hard rock, psychedelic, blues, funk, and jazz, builds his own pedals and amps , produces all his own records, oh and plays drums and keyboards and can sing while playing off beat riffs. thats what makes him great

[@DanielHoerle-ww9so]

@@blahmcduh Aint dead yet is his best soloing, besides the synth solo in Moon walk. Been into Frank since 1974.

[@blahmcduh]

@@DanielHoerle-ww9so And for pure shredding, I always think of Ditch Queen off the Juggernaut album.

[@primolilla]

I think Rik Emmett of Triumph should make the list, he was fast, clean and technical. Also, love him or hate him, Ted Nugent was all about BIG guitar. Tom Scholz of Boston was very melodic, and even though the band really didn't go far into the 80's due to legal issues they did release Third Stage in 86. Lots of talent out there that's for sure!

[@augustjohnnycrashed]

SCHOLZ WAS KING OF TONE NEXT TO BRIAN MAY.

[@primolilla]

@@augustjohnnycrashed Hitch A Ride solo is beautiful.

[@Dethmeister]

Oh yeah! Triumph!

[@ozzyrrv420]

Rik Emmett is the most underrated guitarist ever I don't know how you mention so many just decent players and not him. He never gets the credit he deserves because he is IMO one of the best ever. Him and Randy Rhoads are at the top of my list. And Tom Scholz was so amazing on 3rd stage. That was my first cassette tape I got when I was a kid.

[@mal2ksc]

Tom Scholz would deserve a spot under "innovator" just for inventing the Rockman system, as this had a significant effect on that "80's sound": more toward transistor clarity and slightly away from tube syrup. (Never mind that he invented it so the band could practice in hotels, which was worthy enough in its own right.) He's also a multi-instrumental badass.

[@fabiohpk5316]

I really think you missed Mustaine, Adrian Smith/Dave Murray and Glenn Tipton/K.K. Downing.

[@michelangelobarques9589]

He also missed Marty Friedman, blues saracens, n the maidens guitarist I think hes partial, which is ok, but not my cup of tea

[@MaineConservative76]

Dave Mustaine should have been in there in place of Kirk!

[@michelangelobarques9589]

@@MaineConservative76 to each his own, I know a shredder when I hear one N Dave mustaine, although accomplished songwriter, is not a shredder

[@ragingraven2746]

He almost always misses Iron Maiden members

[@rikk319]

@@michelangelobarques9589 Marty and Saraceno were in there.

[@jimrosser7494]

Stevie Ray Vaughn.

[@jaybee9269]

So much, yes.

[@SuperScitty]

Ah ya!!!

[@jeshely]

How could Rick have missed him? In the 80’s there is no blues without SRV.

[@bocook6167]

Yep. He took blues to alot if long hairs. I was 1.

[@Philip8825]

No SRV ? Is it just me or do you have something against him ? I’ve never heard you mention the man and he’s easily an all-time great ? What’s up ? It’s hard to take this video seriously wo him, bottom line

[@colinerikstanhouse6385]

I grew up in the 70s and 80s. The best two decades of Rock guitarists !

[@groovalistical]

Every one of those has his place in that list, but where the heck is Stevie Ray Vaughan??????

[@zappa1795]

Stevie ray aplasta a todos estos, demasiadas escalas y cero feelin

[@pillsareyummy]

He's not a 'rock player'.

[@JoseGrifol]

@@zappa1795 Please, respect. You are talking of amazing guitarist like Eddie Van Halen, Jason Becker, Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Neal Schon, Yngwie Malmsteen, Vernon Reid. Sit, relax and enjoy.

[@zappa1795]

@@JoseGrifol 😂😂😂😂 ok te hace falta escuchar más rock en general, eres de los que piensan en los subgéneros del rock. En fin 👍

[@unacuentadeyoutube13]

@@zappa1795 so you think vivaldi, beethoven, mozart, paganini, chopin, etc. are people who don't feel just because they play a lot of notes? Because that's what Malmsteen, Steve Vai and others play, neo-classical music. Steve Ray Vaughan is a really talented and good player, just like the others. You can't compare their styles because they are completly different things.

[@ianhalbert2539]

I was just looking for a mention of Dave mustaine. Also, Elliot Easton from the cars is a criminally underrated guitarist.

[@s4lroachclip]

agreed on both counts, elliot had some of the catchiest solos very melodic, bouncy, and feel good stuff. dave is well, dave is dave. hahaha fast... I had the same experience he had with the loss of left arm/fingers function, and he overcame it despite being told he would never play again. good story there.

[@pleasedie1979]

Yeah, Mustaine is always underrated...

[@colinsfasah]

@@pleasedie1979 If only for the spider chord ( I love watching Dave Navarro try to play that chord with Mustaine...;-)

[@cattycats4]

Mustaine is a great guitarist but the lead guitarists he hired for Megadeth were all in his own words better players, so youd have to include Jeff Young too I guess

[@Windlespoon]

Yes, Mustaine is a shredder and an innovator too.

[@EggkFarm]

I don't know how well Thurston Moore and Lee Ranaldo would fit on this list, but they always deserve to be mentioned among the coolest and most original guitarists of the era. Sister and Daydream Nation are two of the most wondrous guitar albums (and albums period) for me. and I do like the shredders to. Was happy to see Johnny Marr on the list.

[@NESman-dm3wd]

Evol

[@EggkFarm]

@@NESman-dm3wd Yes, you gotta have EVOL to. I think it's a lil lesser than the next two but it really got that Sonic style going.

[@jamesepperson]

Brendan Canty and Ian McKay as well!! Fugazi influenced so many people it's sick

[@peeg100]

Peter Buck from REM, his right hand is like no one in this world. The other question I had is, if you're going to include Eric Johnson, You need to include Robert Cray, SRV, and Buddy Guy

[@genericsomething]

I almost forgot Johnny Marr, I'm glad someone mentioned him.

[@erep1255]

Vito Bratta! Nobody could tap as fluidly and melodically as this guy. In a class all his own

[@momentingwsd]

I think Glen Tipton is a good name to include. Very unique style when soloing, melodic and versatile and often times pretty shreddy too.

[@BangBangBeefyMacNCheesy]

Agree. I’ve mentioned Tipton a few times to Rick but he seems to never get any mentions.... which is a shame since he really did have excellent phrasing and a unique style for his time.

[@Roysheefus]

I totally agree. One of the most underrated and influential metal guitarists of the 70s and 80s. His guitar sound combined with kk drowning’s helped create heavy metal as we know it.

[@rickyr6702]

Yeah I agree. Some of them old Judas Priest records are pretty good.

[@xzist67]

I agree100 %.. One of the best guitar heroes. And with KK Downing... OMG 🤟👊

[@shanewilson199]

There’s a KZbin video of sinner.. his guitar solo is awesome.

[@angelotorres9043]

I would add Richie Blackmore, Tony Iommi, Frank Marino, Tipton & Downing, Smith & Murray, Schenker & Jabs, Wolf Hoffman, Criss Oliva

[@jjamesmcguire6343]

Frank Marino and Ritchie Blackmore! Wow! way bad..... how about Frank Marino's live version of Jimi's Voodoo Chile? pretty insane! But I guess when I think about it, their chops are more blues-based coming from a Hendrix Realm of style and maybe that's why they're not in that shred category.

[@bertramallgood9921]

I think he mentioned Ritchie Blackmore in his 70's guitarist video.

[@torahwarrior2442]

Wolf Hoffman is very underrated...one of my favs

[@insertanynameyouwant5311]

so is the 2-nd Accept guitarist. I even forgot his name

[@angelotorres9043]

I chose them because of the albums they put out in the 80's. Iommi had Heaven & Hell & Mob Rules, Marino had What's Next & Juggernaut, Blackmore had Bent out of Shape & Straight between the eyes. So I get it, while those guys had already blazed a path in the 70's, it's not like they didn't put out great work in the 80's. IMO

[@buffmay1666]

Maybe I missed it, but no Rik Emmett. Style, tone and phrasing are greatness.

[@4MWPhoto]

buff may And infusion of classical music.

[@04eire]

being a kid of the 80's I was hit with Malmsteen's style. I guess its mostly because instead of riffing away, he was actually playing changes. You can always hear cadences and clear changes....not just the overt arpeggio spelling of chords, in his lines. After hearing Miles's bands (the albums Milestones with Cannonball, and Four and More) all this shredding bravado sounded senseless to me, but have to say, this generation were the masters of technic. Di Martini and George Lynch were definitely the most musical to me....outside Eddie.

[@juanamigo]

I’d add Lindsey Buckingham to those final three texture-type players. Other than that it’s a fine list.

[@Lastkingof33]

He's more of 70s guy

[@chazer793]

@@Lastkingof33 So is Jimmy Page, and yet he was not left off the list :) Buckingham did a heck of a lot more records in the 80s that Page. That finger picking solo at the end of his single "Trouble" is a work of art.

[@dougcampbell3593]

@lastkingof33 ... yes it is and that's where I'm heading right now ... check the live version taped on the show Center Stage (if you haven't already) ... Cheers 🍻✌️💗🤘

[@RazielXSR]

@@chazer793 Your statement deserves more recognition.

[@trevorgrier4511]

I'm glad you included Vito Bratta. I could listen to Pride and mute out Mike Tramp's vocals just to listen to Vito's varied playing... I call him a "soulful shredder"

[@treff9226]

Soulful shredder! Perfect way to describe incredible skill of Vito Bratta! Tramp's vocals bothered me as well, wish Vito hadnt disappeared so soon from music, I just loved his riffing, tone and melodic phrasing! He was the total package.

[@bnwls436]

Elliot Easton from the Cars belongs in that last group. He blended elements of classic Rock 'n Roll into a band dabbled heavily in "New Wave" styles. He's so much more unique than most of the "dudes who play fast."

[@SDesWriter]

Pop guitar, not rock.

[@seangagnonProvidenceR.I.]

Very underrated and excellent guitarist.

[@eleazarbeltran9813]

Yes !!!! Underrated

[@michaelharrington75]

​@@SDesWriter The Cars are as much rock as the Police.

[@rwusa1117]

Alex Lifeson was not the fastest or the most technical. But my God he was so creative and always played to fit the song's emotion.

[@sharkmanyt4431]

Alex Lifeson is pretty technical actually

[@zackeriah87]

Frank Gambale!!!!!!!!! His sweeping influenced every sweeper...

[@aquabot]

Yep, I definitely think he should in that list.

[@caseymather1957]

Zach Derbas he isn’t really a rock guitarist- more like a fusion guitarist imo

[@aquabot]

That's true.

[@Ionx2000]

I started at GIT when Frank graduated in Fall 83 and had him as a private instructor. No one had heard sweeping arpeggios and lines like that before. He is definitely an Innovator.

[@russellward4624]

TBF the list is Rock players

[@JohnLee-db9zt]

Gary Moore playing was full of emotion. Love his musicality.

[@dennisragland2749]

No body could top Gary's vibrato either!

[@kylania]

Gary is who got me to get a guitar. I bought in a cassette of "Parisienne Walkways" super long note to the guitar store and said "I want to do that! What do I need?" They said "You need a Les Paul and a wall of Marshall tube amps." So I asked "What can I get for $150?" :)

[@MrDeengels]

Every note and every bend meant something to Gary

[@PaulPaid]

The overall best...ever.

[@Stefan-Van-der-Pulst]

Was searching for someone who mentioned Gary Moore. The most versatile player. He could do it al. Fusion, classic rock , hard rock, blues, experimental style...you name it. And his bendings and finger vibrato were phenominal. No one played with such emotion.

[@jesuish6109]

Man - huge credit to you for including Johnny Marr. He's a damned underrated player for sure.

[@buxtahooda1]

Definitely, I would love to see a 'What makes this song great?' with The Smiths.

[@xxFORDIExx]

So many amazing guitarists but Knopfler does something like no other. His tone and feel hits me so hard. Outstanding musician. The whole package

[@christiansoleta7556]

So glad Alex LIfeson got recognized, so underrated

[@johncruz9357]

I don’t know if you can call Alex underrated.

[@johncruz9357]

In fact just being put into the innovator category. To me means his influential. The man has an amp line.

[@paulfowler5420]

Alex’s playing is so original and iconic. In a class of his own!

[@anton2417]

Someone that i feel like you can call truly say is underrated is gary moore.

[@johncruz9357]

@@anton2417 no way! Garry is famous for his playing. The band is called the GM band. He made a living playing guitar, touring world, videos & radio airplay.

[@llpink65]

I would definitely include Gary Richrath from REO Speedwagon. He was an amazing guitarist as well as a songwriter.

[@muddlermike]

llpink65 Richrath is a nice mention. Despite his demons, his solos were amazingly tasty. I embarrassingly and involuntarily have to air guitar over his solo on “Roll with the changes”. It doesn’t matter if I’m driving, in the middle of a conversation, whatever...

[@brianhester8918]

Wouldn’t he be more 70’s. Great player though

[@llpink65]

@@brianhester8918 he was still playing in the 80's....the high infidelity album was released around 1981

[@mcdshannon]

Gary was one of my first influences....I probably still sound like him!!! RIP Gary, Thank you!

[@whitetail1941]

Saw him in 1983 I was on the wall truly bad ass

[@Felipe_dcj]

I missed watching John Norum on shredders from any band the 80's. He had (and has) an amazing tone and vibrato, and then was a great songwriter too.

[@SNOWYSHAWOFFICIAL]

True dat.

[@mincerstephen9137]

His "Total Control" solo album is soooooooo overlooked. Some really great songs on that.

[@steffenbrix]

All the jazz stuff!! Sco, Stern, Metheny, Gambale, Allan...all their best stuff is from the 80s 😊❤️

[@tfbattag]

I thought this was very inclusive. So glad to see Gary Moore, Steve Morse and Nuno get mentioned. They seem to get overlooked most of the time. For your last three to make it four should probably include Malcolm Young as one of the greatest create-the-foundation-for-others players. Oh, it was also a nice tribute to Mike Varney and Shrapnel. So much great talent we may not have heard without that label. I definitely agree with the folks who mentioned SRV and Rik Emmet.

[@ericp3573]

Adrian smith, Dave Murray, Glenn Tipton, KK downing and yeah, Tony Iommi

[@rogerrios8844]

Adrian Smith my favourite

[@DanielHoerle-ww9so]

Ritchie Faulkner.

[@ultimategolfshredder]

I know I'm 3 years late, but I think Frank Gambale needed to be included in the Innovator category at the very least. He's a Fusion/Rock/Metal player, but I believe he was one of the first, if not the first, to sweep pick arpeggios. I recall seeing a video where he claimed to have discovered this unique way of playing which is literally all through '80s and '90s Metal, and is still in massive use today.

[@josephodmoors4623]

Came here to post this exactly.

[@ralvknights]

Rick's video made me feel like i had time traveled and felt like i did back in the 80s. Amazed and mesmerized by the guitar sounds.

[@koenstrobbe8101]

Satriani's first album was "Not of this Earth" in 1986. "Surfiing with the Alien" was released in 1987. 1989 was the year he was nominated for a grammy award.

[@robertpetersson8771]

notised the mistake also 8)

[@ctinbogdan6831]

a lot of mistakes...u are right and start before he make a solo career ...but are so many...but have 60 years old rick..so...and put sometimes like eric johnson because is he s friends...he deserve...

[@matthiasstephens2265]

Akira takasaki of loudness definitely a couple of your categories I feel is often overlooked

[@zoranpavlovic9540]

Yeah brother!!!! I've just commened that in my comment above and scrolled to check if anyone mentioned that guitar monster. Roudness folevel since 1984.!!!! \,,/

[@doughsnakes]

And Kyoji Yamamoto of Bow Wow - though he could have been in the 1970's list too.

[@mikeyowen]

matthias stephens Akira & Ronni le tekro

[@snackweight]

Robert Fripp and Adrian Belew should be included as innovators both as a pair and as individuals. Not only was the music preformed by King Crimson revolutionary, their work with other artists and bands was a huge influence on pop music and new wave.

[@millvalleypc7821]

I agree. A perfect pair.

[@bradanderson3828]

Wrong era

[@millvalleypc7821]

Fripp and Belew are certainly "1980-1989 Rock Guitar Heroes"

[@robertbaratheon9289]

Cool to see Brian Setzer make the list. He's an absolute monster of player. He rarely gets mentioned as a guitar great.

[@JmoeGD]

faaacts

[@marvinmeeker5765]

A good example, when he teamed up with Brian Adams, Adams played rhythm guitar. More importantly, Stray Cats was a 3 piece band. He kept his guitar busy. Later, with the orchestra he put together, his playing was outstanding again, check out Jump, Jive and Wail. Brian Setzer is definitely UNDERRATED!

[@fabriziopacifici5404]

Maybe Steve Stevens is missing . He is a real distintive icon of the sound of the 80s. Very high precision e great taste

[@patrickmollohan3082]

Steve Steven's is a MONSTER player!! A lot of the layers of different sounds on the early Billy Idol records were just amazing. Saw him doing the "guest guitarist" slot on That Metal Show on TV one night. Holy fuck...can he shred very tastefully!! It was totally awesome!!

[@jameszeiger8533]

You are absolutely right! Steve has the sweetest sound and he can play like a mofo. A sonic Zen Master

[@jinger9980]

And don't forget James Stevenson

[@alexandersatriadi6192]

Yess, he definitely did an excellent job for both Billy Idol and Vince Neil's solo albums..

[@spottedsaint957]

GREAT CALL! I posted about him myself in the comments!👍 Steve Stevens is basically THE heart and soul of Billy Idol's band and as much as I loved Billy Idol's music, it was Steve Stevens' unique sound that made the "magic" happen. Nothing against Mark Younger Smith on the "Charmed Life" album but he was no Steve Stevens.

[@SimonRefaloGuitaristOfficial]

Malcolm Young should have been included in the last 3- he shaped the sound of ACDC- from the first chord you can hear him instantly.

[@gabrielshelwood3072]

I appreciate this video. As a beginner guitarist, it’s very influential in my opinion to not only see the people before my time, but also be able to learn about them as well.

[@PDXguitarfreak]

STEVIE... RAY ... VAUGHN.... that’s a huge omission 😉 ....UPDATE: Okay, it looks like Rick may have clarified the title to say "Rock" guitar players, and apparently he says it early in the video and I just wasn't paying attention LOL. Anyway, I guess it was also the inclusion of some non-rock guys in the mix that led me to throw SRV's name in there. Regardless... LONG LIVE THE MUSIC OF THE 80s!!!!!

[@fasteddievh2072]

PDX Guitar Freak I totally agree!!! I watched it twice to make sure I didn’t miss him. It’s not right man.

[@T25de]

43 seconds, he says he is only doing heavy Rock stuff. That’s got to b the reason ...

[@T25de]

Well then he goes into the blues... fuck lol

[@MrBrawl]

Bluesy hard rock guys, not blues guys.

[@burnsatanburn]

MrBrawl then why is Jeff Healy on the list?

[@marcelomorem]

Joe Satriani first album is not "Surfing With The Alien". It's "Not Of This Earth". And it was released in 1986, not 1989.

[@PRROD07]

Sorry to burst your bubble, but "Not if this earth" is an ep not a full cd. Small difference.

[@christebo7305]

rodriguez hmm.... at this time vinyl was still popular. Not of this Earth was as long as a lot of other albums. So while maybe an EP it's length crossed over into LP territory.

[@andrewjenkinson8948]

And in addition, Surfing was released in 87. Rick might have been thinking of Flying in a Blue Dream, which was released in 89.

[@OZRIC1985]

I remember getting "Not of This Earth" after getting "Surfing with the Alien" (since I learned that "Not of This Earth" had come out first), and I love the great songs on that album as well. I love all the rockin' songs on that album bigtime ("Hordes of Locusts", "The Enigmatic", etc.), but the ballad "Rubina" is one I really loved a lot because of its beauty and incredible melody. :)

[@OZRIC1985]

@@PRROD07 ...Wait..."Not of This Earth" was slightly longer (1 minute and 5 seconds longer) than "Surfing with the Alien", and it contained 10 songs. It looks like a full album to me. Where is it classified as an EP??? :-o

[@rwsterley]

Iron Maiden Dave Murray and Adrian Smith

[@MrDeathyness]

Ruaan Sterley I’m saying the Iron Maiden disrespect is real. Steve Harris is a top 5 bassist too

[@christophercarty675]

Came here to say this and you got it covered!!!

[@wcnmvp3820]

Exactly

[@SwashBuccaneer]

Up the irons

[@TMFitness]

I had to watch the clip twice because I thought I missed something. Dave at the least should be on here, he has great feel.

[@lonpollard902]

I'm glad Uli Roth was included. He was doing the classical thing in the 70's and had much influence on Malmsteen and Van Halen. To Malmsteen's credit, he openly acknowledged it. Uli continued on after leaving the Scorpions in the very late 70's. Of course Uli was heavily influenced by Hendrix, along with the classical stuff. In the very early 80's, after getting the Tokyo Tapes album and hearing him for the first time, he went straight to the top of my list. Mesmerizing guitarist.

[@NH2112]

Adrian Smith & Dave Murray deserve their own episode, I don’t think there are 2 other guitarists so in tune with each other’s playing. It’s like they share the same mind. Michael Denner & Andy LaRocque of King Diamond. Rik Emmett, the Canadian Eddie Van Halen.

[@antoniocenteno1483]

Eh, as much as i Love Maiden you can easly identify huge differences between both chops, both do great for maiden though

[@punknpunt352]

Rik Emmett , Adrian Smith & Dave Murray, took the words right out of my head!

[@bonesjackson81]

Michael Schenker is king. Love a lot of these guitarist but none ever made me go wow more. Especially the UFO years. Killer in MSG too.

[@denniss7331]

Game over...

[@mikejelinek1413]

Schenker influenced more guitar players than anyone everyone of the 80's players will mention Michael. Only EVH and Rhodes could be close.

[@jyegreen387]

Did I miss Dave Mustaine? He was a solid all rounder. Composing and shredding with a beautiful feel for the genre he was in.

[@CDAW_45]

@@Subhrocks1 how

[@maxjudge020]

@@Subhrocks1 hes not that great but he put Kirk Hammett in here and he definitely isnt on the same level as Mustaine.

[@Mechanix360]

@@maxjudge020 bunch of BS. Mustaine is the pure definition of thrash metal!

[@THEHAMMERMAN30]

@@Mechanix360 hammet is so sloppy, mustaine is much better...he’ll even Hatfield plays cleaner than hammet

[@madden7732]

@@THEHAMMERMAN30 Mustaine is as sloppy as Kirk omg. Not dissin on Mustaine, he's one of my main influences to pick the guitar, but to say he's a clean player is just a lie. But yes, the attitude on his lead playing is ferocious. On the other hand, Mustaine is a great composer and rythmic player along James.

[@nic8577]

Mick mars is abit underrated because he isn’t as big of a personality as the rest of the Crüe. but he is a monster who didn’t just totally copy EVH like so many else did.

[@mrdaddy6686]

Stanley Jordan,a two handed tapping virtuoso

[@dwreck]

THIS

[@dr.tukenstein]

He's amazing!