TOP 30 GUITARISTS OF ALL TIME

[@GuitarPilgrim]

Enjoy this video with Study Guide: ➤ bit.ly/3Ak5r5U

[@CraigHollabaugh]

Oh, please don't make me choose but ok, Page, Vaughan and Gilmore.

[@antlerking69]

Geez, right now Justin Johnson Tommy Emmanuel Wes Montgomery Tomorrow might be different

[@DonDeering]

Robert Nighthawk Earl Hooker T-Bone Walker (It's really impossible to narrow it down this far. These three are my favorite guitarists because of their music as a whole. Up till a decade ago, I would have said that Kenny Burrell was my favorite.) Congratulations on the new baby!

[@timothymills733]

Mark Knopfler because sometimes it only takes one note 🙂Joe Walsh, the James Gang and solo years because no one sounded like him, and Stevie Ray, who I personally think is the all-time greatest.

[@CraigHollabaugh]

@@antlerking69 Justin, excellent choice.

[@gtrdoc911]

Wow GP. That was jaw droppingly impressive to authentically reproduce all those masters. I'll be analyzing this video at quarter speed for years to come.

[@mikaelsjoberg1894]

Good Comment!😂

[@randydavenport961]

YOU must be my favorite guitarist of all time because you are EVERY guitarist rolled into one, AWESOME DUDE!!

[@xealzy944]

It’s fantastic to see Scotty Moore so high on the list. I feel that he’s so forgotten he made me want to pick up the guitar. Now I’ve discovered Stevie Ray Vaughan, Philip Sayce, Buddy Guy , etc. Scotty opened the door for me!

[@craniofacialsurgeon]

Scotty Moore… supremo

[@StillTcB]

Me too 👍👍

[@johanhiemstra3664]

You are brilliant Mr. Helwig. Welcome in the Netherlands❗️

[@phil36310]

I'm surprised David Gilmour is not part of the bunch for his guitar playing & sound is just timeless and full of emotions ... all in harmony. And yes, one of my favored: John Fogerty. Jan Akkerdinges ??? who's that guy ? But all in all a interesting collection. Thanks for sharing Pilgrim!

[@hesch-tag]

Jan Akkerman was voted the best guitarist in the world in '73. He is Dutch and he can play every style. Look up the band Focus.

[@kalbot98]

Jan Akkerman, amazing dutch guitarist. He is kinda like the guitar hero of the Netherlands.

[@deanevangelista6359]

At the risk of sounding cliche, Jan was way ahead of his time. He had the best chops of his era.

[@soulliker6837]

Yes indeed, same surprise, he could take Carlos Santana's place imo.

[@lucashenry7293]

@@deanevangelista6359 don't forget Allan Holdsworth was already around playing rock prog and jazz rock ;)

[@gf301]

If you're talking about playing ability, he should be on that list himself. It's not all hard work and practice, there has to be some innate talent and this guy has it. He transmits feeling so well, such honesty in his play. Loved that Paul McCartney video too. Hope all the instruments survive the move okay!

[@frankcompagnone8550]

He's a good piano player too. Great voice. He's put in his time

[@Indobiker61]

Welcome back to NL...

[@fabioterapeuta]

I vote Thom too \o/

[@tiestenbosch]

I think Paul McCartney should be on the list. Not only because he has a unique guitar style (songs like blackbird, jenny wren, mother nature's son), he played some of the best solos for the beatles (Taxman), but what he did on the bassguitar is beyond the instrument. Before Macca, bass guitar in pop and rock'n'roll was just playing around the root note. He changed that completely!

[@tedqzo]

Love your videos! Such a talented musician with great insights… and the friendliest video presence. Thank you!!

[@ivancasey7012]

Been a subscriber a good while now. It’s only after you said you lived in Ireland the last four years I began to hear the Irish twang. Best of luck back in the Netherlands.

[@sapelesteve]

That was a great list Thom! There are so many more that could have been on that list. Some of my favorites are: Dwayne Allman, Gary Moore and Lindsey Buckingham, to name a few. 🎸🎸👍👍

[@bryantcooley4969]

Awesome list! Loved that you played Signe for Clapton. I would have to add Prince on that list somewhere.

[@matrox]

Yeh...probably #1.

[@biscaynediver]

Agreed. Not a huge Prince fan, but his talent is undeniable. Also, look around at who top musicians choose when they need backing -- tells you a lot. Michael Jackson could have had anyone he wanted, he chose Prince. Something near 40% of all studio albums for a decade were recorded using the Wrecking Crew, with Glen Campbell on lead guitar. Among professional musicians, Campbell is on everyone's Top 20.

[@QuinnJACKSON-zx1dx]

Yep....he should be on it for sure.

[@hiepke1]

I really enjoy watching your videos! Your enthusiasm and joy makes me pick up the guitar everytime and 'try' to play along. Kudos to you! Does your moving mean we won't see any uploads for a while?

[@GuitarPilgrim]

I will be uploading, maybe take a week or two pause

[@jeffedmundson3934]

They are Me, You and Phil Keggy ( Album - Master and the Musician)

[@crowhaven200]

Good luck on your move Pilgrim. What a list! Wonderful, it all made me feel good. The best part was waiting for Jimi.. Still #1 in my life, but I never contest guitarist up against each other. That is a waste of time. I just love hearing what I like, and I like a lot of'em. Stay safe!

[@marions.120]

The only guitarist I’ve ever seen having as much fun playing as Tim Pierce! Really enjoy your videos. ✌️😎🎸🎶🎵🎶🎵🎶 p.s. Your opinion on the virtuoso aspect hit the nail on the head. Same thing I’ve been saying for quite a while. I appreciate them, but it doesn’t really do anything for me, and I love the ending!

[@danielperezcabezas109]

Great selection! And great playing!!! Among the family of great blues rock guitarists I´ll always include Rory Gallagher.His playing on electric or acoustic guitar and his presence on stage,with average clothes and strict commitment with his music have always moved me.Ans what about old Buddy Guy?

[@GuitarPilgrim]

You have good taste Daniel

[@danielperezcabezas109]

@@GuitarPilgrim Hendrix,Gallagher and Blackmore were the three heroes of my teens back in the 70es!

[@philodonoghue3062]

Totally agree - for all the reasons you gave. The guitarists’ guitarist; the people’s guitarist. Commented above ‘no Rory Gallagher’.

[@danielperezcabezas109]

@@philodonoghue3062 Hi Phil! After dictator Franco´s death in 1975 some things started to change here in Spain and we could have some rock tv programs,and Rory even came to perform some time.For a 16 or 17 year old kid like me,who couldn´t afford going to shows,watching Rory´s performances on tv with the energy he was displaying was kind a blues rock revelation.You´re right,when you saw him in his jeans,sneakers and flanel shirts,you were seeing a kid like yourself playing gis heart out,so he could not be anything but the people´s guitarist,keeping far from superficial glamour.

[@sebatianalvarado7171]

@@philodonoghue3062 no roy buchanan ,, not alot of later 60s greats didnt listen or go see him , a mentor to beck , devoloped the volume/tone swell , no pedals , he was doing it all by 1960 without pedals etc ....

[@terrycaster4976]

Interesting list. I’m glad you included Lennon and Akkerman. I would have tried to squeeze in Paul Kossoff, Joe Walsh and Brian May, but it’s an impossible task and would probably change tomorrow depending on my mood. Well done. Good luck with your move.

[@callumroberts8033]

I appreciate the fact you put Mick Taylor at 11th, when the highest I’ve ever seen him on such a list is 37th. I think if more people delved into all the live performances he did with the stones from 69-73, he’d be a much more appreciated guitarist. One of the best ever in his prime in my opinion

[@louisrifat2647]

Absolutely loved this one! Not just demonstrates these guitar players greatness - demonstrates yours to mimic them all so brilliantly. Felt my soul burst when Santana came on. Though I must say, I feel spiritually obliged to whine that there’s no JJ Cale on there!!! Anyway - cheers as always for the awesome uplifting video. 👊🏽🍺

[@noahtenshen]

I might include Alvin Lee and Roy Buchanan, but you forgot one of my all time favorites that encapsulates all of the ones on your list--YOU!!!! I'm in eternal awe of your abilities! Congrats on the new addition--another blessed human to have you as a dad. (And with a Great Name). Good luck on the move back home. Stay Well Groovy One!

[@fahrenheit1982]

Great vid thx! I would add David Gilmour, Billy Gibbons, Francisco Tárrega, Paco De Lucía, Chuck Berry, Richie Sambora, Prince, Brian May, Kurt Cobain, George Benson, Buddy Guy, Gary Moore

[@docskate4312]

I'd just like to say: RORY GALLAGHER 1948 -1995 Guitar Hero - Celtic Legend R.I.P.

[@PowerfulSlicer]

Brilliant as always, best teacher on you tube

[@chirilas5217]

Wow!!!!, just brilliant. You are a truly virtuoso of the guitar. Excellent solos performances. Great job. Congratulations.👏👏👏👌👌👌👌👌👌👍👍👍

[@rgrtnyjjc]

Great list! Brian Setzer is often overlooked but I think he’s definitely deserving of a slot in lists like this. Also you seem very keen on blues and blues influenced guitarists, with that in mind I would have made room for Albert King and the great Rory Gallagher.

[@triplejazzmusicisall1883]

I thought the same. It really is a list of 30 best electric rock/blues guitarists. Which is fine but needs pointing out. After all what about Django Reinhardt! Oh and Brian Setzer is amazing so thanks for mentioning him.

[@cliffhughes6010]

Enjoyed your list and your own playing very much. It was good to see John Lennon and Peter Green included. But, if you don't already know them, give these guys a listen (especially playing live): Django Reinhardt, Joe Pass, Gary Moore, Paul Kossoff, Larry Carlton, Frank Zappa, Rory Gallagher, Dave Gilmore, Roy Buchanan. There are, of course, plenty of others.

[@stephenbouchelle7706]

Thanks for putting virtuosity after feeling. You got both, hands down.

[@fredsirocco]

I love seeing you play the guitar! What talent 👍🎸

[@thefirstdude]

Great list! And I agree 100% with the feeling over technical skill as the main criterion. Well done.

[@bettyswunghole3310]

In my opinion, there's *so* much more enjoyment in a melodic, tasteful, rhythmically diverse piece of guitar playing than there is in fast, repetitive shredding.

[@jcivantos]

Not the list I would come up with (and of course that’s the point), but totally respect. The Scotty Moore piece was amazing

[@IsmaelMurilloH]

Dickey Betts deserves a video!

[@kerthunder]

Great balance ranking on what makes a great player (i.e. avoiding theatrics), glad Mick Taylor was included. I would be interested in a ranking of great session players that have contributed to noted recordings but are not well known. Thanks for the great content..

[@saltwatergallery2005]

Great job interpreting the styles of all these amazing guitar players. Good to see Keith on the list (so often ignored despite writing 100’s of rock’s most memorable phrases) along with Mick Taylor. Also agree with Hendrix at #1 and Clapton. Great to see Knopfler high up on the list - he has an instantly recognisable sound. One guy who I was surprised not to see on the list, is the late, great Eddie Van Halen, who could play with as much feel as anyone and was as innovative in his time as Scotty Moore was in his. I might have swapped out one or two of the less influential players for him. Great list though and great playing!

[@lopezb]

Yes, Eddie is a real player. I was so happy to see Mick Taylor, Peter Green, Keith Richards on there (and Lennon). Peter Green is so often underrated. His record withe Mayall is outstanding- maybe even better than the one with Clapton. I am glad Satriani and Vai are not on there, nor Zappa. They are all amazing, but for me rarely live up to their promise. Satch's "Is there Love in Space" is a really beautiful tune, but often his most beautiful solos are hidden within mediocre songs. It's a mixture. Agreed Hendrix is the best for his solos, but almost as good as his solos is his singing, which no one ever speaks of, but is so expressive. And even better than his solos is his songwriting. Nobody has matched that since, even though in 2022, I'm sure literally thousands can imitate his solos perfectly. Of course there are many great Brazilian players, starting with Baden Powell and Rafael Rabello.

[@sebatianalvarado7171]

@@lopezb ROY BUCHANAN WAS DOING IT ALL IN 1960 BEFORE THE LATER GREATS ...worlds greatest unknown guitarist .. !!

[@TheNobbynoonar]

Congratulations on the birth of your son. I wish you and your family good health, peace of mind and long and prosperous life. BTW, great video (as always)

[@meyerjp3]

Glad to see Tommye Emmanuel ranked so high. He is absolutely amazing. He deserves more recognition!

[@kjguitarman]

Tommy is a great guitarist. No disagreement there. His writing doesn’t compare to the greatest guitarists of all time though.

[@aidangriffiths5075]

@@kjguitarman good thing this isn't the list of best songwriters then

[@kjguitarman]

@@aidangriffiths5075 pilgrim did say songwriting/melodies/riffs were a big factor in his choosing

[@davidbarber2010]

@@kjguitarman you for got Gray Moore 🎸. You still got blues for me. Look for him on. You tube

[@flaviosanguigni8783]

As always great video. Congratulations for the baby and all the best for your return to NL.

[@CarlKennedyMusic]

Very enjoyable video. I always love your presentations. Jimi would be my choice for #1 as well. No one has done more to shape modern guitar and rock music than Jimi. I am glad to see Jan Ackerman, Mick Taylor, George Harrison and John Lennon. Of course plenty of people will lose their minds overthinking this but, as subjective lists go, I really enjoyed yours!

[@gregsey8239]

Love your list. It shows what you really love in a guitar player. Passion and feel over technical proficiency. Keep up the great work. You asked who my top 3 are 1.Derek Trucks 2.Jimi 3.Mark knopfler

[@fatkitty4207]

15:34 Jimi's smiling because he know he is going to be number 1.

[@paulbillingham6769]

If there is a Heaven on Earth for guitar players, this video just took me there. Learnt so much, and yeah the comments on how a player makes you feel are so valid. Wish GP all the best with his new family and future. Hope he still finds time to create new videos for us subscribers.

[@johnrogers4058]

Congrats on the new baby! Jimi is number 1, but Billy Corgan is very impressive with his reverse bends. Steve Jones is iconic, I can recognize his guitar work within a measure or two.

[@26Jorgeb]

Great playing GP! I worked in thw Netherlands for 4 yrs in the oil patch! Met a lot of good people there in Delfzijl.Keep it up and God bless!

[@SGI999]

Love your top three. I would wish to add Garry Moore RIP ‘The Messiah Will Come Again’ and ‘I’ve Still Got the Blues For You’ are truly stirring, and the mesmerising Edgar Winter to my top 30. Maybe Muddy Waters and Django Reinhardt with his 4 fingered jazz licks with violinist Stephano Grappelli. Jimi Hendrix remains as ever at the very top of my list -13 year old me hearing him for the first time? Changed my world. So many wonderful guitarists. You are not so bad yourself kid! Congrats on the birth of your little one.☺️

[@EclecticHillbilly]

"The Messiah Will Come Again" was actually a Roy Buchanan song...............and Roy did it straight through the amp, no pedals in those days.

[@SGI999]

@@EclecticHillbilly Yes It’s a great piece. Moore did it justice I think.

[@sebatianalvarado7171]

@@EclecticHillbilly thank you ... roy was doing it all by 1960 ,, the origional humble guitarist the later 60s great came to hear and learn from .. the ustin city limits 76 session is one best 34min of guitar you will ever hear ,, he was actually abit disapointed it first seeinv hendrix cause he used pedals ... worlds greatest unknown guitarist .. is absolutey true ..

[@paulevans9036]

Great list and great playing. Thought Dave Gilmour would have made the list. Congratulations on the arrival of Marcus as well. Thanks for this channel.

[@al.virton7809]

I'm glad Harrison and Mayer are on the list... and I know it is YOUR list after all. But seeing a top guitarist ever without Gilmour hurts a little bit close to home I gotta say, especially when guys like John Lennon are on it. But great playing as always, I discovered a few names today !!

[@hugobaptista8755]

I agree. No Gilmour, no Bonamassa, no Pat Metheny or Nuno Bettencourt... the list is a fine list, but feels short. I love his videos though. An AWESOME player. But he is a lot about the blues. Which is fine, because i also love the blues.

[@windyhillbomber]

I would like to add the following for a range of different reasons Terry Kath - Chicago (pre 75) - Hendrix said he was the best guitarist he’d ever seen Wilko Johnson - Doctor Feelgood - so influential to the punk and new wave movement Christone Kingfish - a young African American kid bringing the blues back Pete Townsend - The Who - The ultimate rhythm guitarist The Edge - U2 - Creating immense sonic landscapes Alvin Lee - 10 Years After - lightning fast blues guitarist

[@ElmanAuthement]

I've seen many of the great guitarists in their prime days like Jimmy Page, Robin Trowers, Alvin Lee, Allen Collins original lead solo on Freebird, Dickie Betts, Tommy Shaw, Peter Frampton, Rick Derringer, Johnny Winter, Steve Marriot of Humble Pie, Robert Fripp with King Krimson, Billy Gibbons, Joe Walsh, George Harrison, Pete Townsend, Lyndsey Buckingham, Joe Perry, J.J. Cale, Andy Powel/Ted Turner of Wishbone Ash with their harmony leads, and this is just to name a few but today, I love watching guys like Derek Trucks, Keith Urban, J. Mayer and any videos of Stevie Ray or Duane Allman, and my favorite KZbin guitarists would be guys like Guitar Pilgrim, Chris Buck and Tim Pierce. You played many of the best with the same feeling and emotion.

[@tilmannhaberer5477]

Finally, someone mentioned Lindsey Buckingham! He's my hero (amongst many of Thom's list). And... where's Brian May?

[@pauladouglass9456]

Keith Urban is underrated as a guitarist. One of the best.

[@pauladouglass9456]

Glenn Campbell

[@vazquezramon3830]

Let me add : Brian May, Jeff Beck, Richard Smith, Joe Bonamassa, Frank Zappa..., if we let aside the gread jazz guitarists (Django, Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass, Larry Coryell, Charlie Christian...). And I think the at special price should be given to the "Gran Father" ; Chuck Berry. And thank you for this video, and you're a pretty good guitarist too!

[@aluminati9918]

Great selection and very inspired playing! Best wishes for your moving process. Missing in list: Mr. Berry (and JJ Cale of course)

[@StratES335]

Thom great playing, and the Strat sounds great! Really enjoy your videos.

[@goranivancevic7456]

Great list, and fantastic playing as always. My top 3 are Clapton, Knopfler and Gilmour. With Slash and GnR being the reason for my taking the guitar 25 years ago. And also In top 10 would be Harrison, Beck, Eric Jonson, SRV, Page, Mayer. Anyway, I really enjoy your videos, I love your playing and your energy, so please keep up the fantastic work you are doing. All the best 🥂

[@craniofacialsurgeon]

beautiful choices Thom. Wonderful as always. Congratulations on your new son. Good luck with your move. Thank you for the inspiration

[@ronmcdonald4921]

Glad I didn’t have to pick 30 and put my neck out there! BUT, since you asked, McCartney could have easily replaced Lennon. Just listen to Blackbird or Junk. Agree with other comment that Gilmour should be there somewhere. Kudos for making Emmanuel so high up the list, though! Good list.

[@rcolang1]

Outstanding selection, playing, commentary, feel, tone, everything!! Loved it thank you!! Congrats on the new baby !! Good luck with the move!!

[@KevinWilliams-mc4qx]

John Lennon definitely deserved a place on the list. Can you imagine Get Back with any other solo?

[@martinjeffery7724]

Ya very talented mate , love all ya vids ,

[@edwardmadigan5511]

Alright Thom, that's a killer list! It was really nice to watch some highlights of your vids from over the years. As you say, a great guitarist isn't necessarily a virtuoso, but someone who lets their own distinctive personality sing through their instrument. I'm sorry to learn you'll be leaving dear old Ireland - I hope you've enjoyed your time there and I wish you the best of luck with your next chapter in the Netherlands. For what it's worth, I would've included Mick Ronson, whose work with David Bowie in the early '70s is some of the best rock n roll ever recorded. Ernie Isley is also one of many soul music guitarists that don't tend to get the same recognition as their rock counterparts (check out his stunning lead on 'Who's That Lady' and anything from the early '70s). And, lastly, Peter Tosh's guitar on The Wailer's 'Catch A Fire' and 'Burnin'' is nothing short of sublime (check out his glorious solo on 'Baby We've Got a Date').

[@sebatianalvarado7171]

yeap .. esp with bowie ,, hunter and wagner .. with lou reed ,, with alice cooper ... roy buchanan the first early (by 1960) was doing it all , the later 60s greats came to sse hear and learn from roy ...

[@fatkitty4207]

If you have the passion you can do anything. Too many people say I don't have the talent for this or that. When you have the passion you don't care about talent you just get it done.

[@GuitarPilgrim]

Amen to that brother

[@EclecticHillbilly]

No list like this can ever get away with not missing people. Roy Buchanan, Danny Gatton, Tony Rice, Ernie Isley and Wes Montgomery would be a good place to start when looking to expand the list.

[@FunkadelicPancho]

Especially Danny Gatton

[@thesolitaryadventurer]

Much respect for playing all this so well. And of course it's your list. (FWIW... Prince / Mayer / Rhoads are my 3 in that order)

[@kevinknight470]

Good list, I might of added David Gilmore, or Joe Satriani. Thanx for sharing with the child. 😃🎸

[@pmog2]

Congrats on the new arrival and best of luck with the move .Hope you keep the channel going.

[@vladavasiljev]

Whatever any guitar list is - the absolute winner is the blues!

[@dexxxhunt]

Wonderful playing my man as always!Congrats on the new edition to your family and move back to the 🇳🇱 as well.I miss Europe!Peace from California.Much Love

[@Doug_Piranha]

No surprises there; the good, solid, selection of “the usual suspects” (even if I personally am no big fan of Jimmy Page, with his - by his own admission - “sloppy playing” and derived licks, or can see the use of Slash). There are a couple of guitarists that could equally well have been included among the most commonly mentioned: Jeff Beck (no comment needed) Duane Allman (on the top of many guitarists list) David Gilmour (even if he’s a tad more revered than he might deserve) Eddie Van Halen (don’t tell us his playing is just superficial bravado … it’s also beautiful! ;-) And as your list was guitarists in popular music, what about … Neil Young (and maybe also Stephen Stills?) Paul Simon Terry Kath (Jimi Hendrix favorite guitarist) Adrian Belew All the guitarists who ever played in Thin Lizzy Paul (who wasn’t far behind George and John on the guitar) Steve Hackett Kaki King José Feliciano The Edge Al Di Meola Chuck Berry Wes Montgomery Johnny Marr Joni Mitchell Steve Howe Frank Zappa (might often seem chaotic and “impenetrable” … but then you can always listen to "Watermelon In Easter Hay") Django Reinhardt John Goodsall Pete Townshend Richie Havens Bob Dylan (just listen to the first 2-3 albums and you’ll hear his exquisite finger picking) Tosin Abasi And I can promise you, that if Jimi is playing with anyone in guitar heaven right now, no doubt it is Allan Holdsworth.

[@Doug_Piranha]

I had a moment to think, and came up with a few more who also, in my book, like all the above mentioned, have/had the ability to move the heart of the listener: Robert Johnson Antônio Carlos Jobim Andrés Segovia Nick Drake Mick Ronson Christopher Parkening Nuno Bettencourt Leon Redbone Rory Gallagher Kim Thayil Julian Bream Guthrie Govan Davey Graham Bert Jansch David Torn Albert Lee Gordon Giltrap Alan Mearns Paco De Lucía and yes … Steve Vai! 😉

[@chrisforrest4581]

Love your video's and your playing please wherever you are keep posting !!

[@dcjway]

You missed all the great jazz players, Wes Montgomery, Grant Green, Barney Kessel, Kenny Burrell, etc.

[@AbbeyRoadkill1]

Wes Montgomery would certainly be on my list.

[@cherylhackathorne1077]

A great walk down memory lane! Thanks

[@DreamsongsProductions]

I would add David Gilmour and Lindsey Buckingham to this list but all the right ones are on it. I'm curious if you did any set ups on your 814ce or just played it as is from the factory?

[@AbbeyRoadkill1]

I was pretty stunned to see that Gilmour was omitted from his list. I mean, does anybody have better 'feel' than him? Maybe Jimi Hendrix, but not too many others.

[@patnaughtin4563]

I agree both David Gilmore and Lindsey Buckingham are incredible in so many ways with the power of their music. I can see maybe how David Gilmour may not make this list and this may offend & I absolutely love Pink Floyd but there is a very upbeat feel to all the guitarist’s sounds on this list here by the Guitar Pilgram and maybe Gilmore because of the style of Pink Floyd’s sound and hence Gilmore is not in that same vane. Gilmore expression is powerful but many times expresses, instead, sad emotions.

[@Strotophonic]

Yep.............for sure. Your Number one is my number one too!!

[@CraigHollabaugh]

Congratulations Dad!

[@GuitarPilgrim]

Thanks Craig!

[@arunviswanathan5555]

Great video and congrats GP! My top 5 are: Robin Trower, Jerry Cantrell, Billy Gibbons, Jimmy Page and Walter Becker🎸😎🔥🤘🏽⚡️

[@roberthiggins986]

Leo Kottke, Joe Walsh and Eddie Van Halen (whom I consider to be this last generation's "Hendrix")..if you listen to rock guitar pre and post Hendrix...his influence is everywhere...Van Halen is very similar...pre and post Van Halen, his influence is all though rock guitar. Walsh has a very distinctive and "fun" tone, where Don Felder also fits in that category for me. LOVED your list...although, I DO think you should have demonstrated Les Paul, ON a Les Paul!

[@Twentykixx]

Completely agree here. Don Felder is a lesser known genius as well. To miss EVH is a crime to all things guitar. Shows GP’s limited scope because of upbringing outside of the US and main-line EU probably.

[@yak9664]

I love watching your vids, so much passion for music, it makes it very enjoyable to watch! You definitely deserve more subs!!

[@matthiessoffers589]

Personally, I’m a big Joe Bonamassa guy, he might not be the most influential or ground breaking guitarist, but every time I listen to that guy he makes me cheer and scream my lungs out. He just has something. He might not truely have his own style, but he grabs the best parts of the individual styles from every guitarist before him and just smashes every solo doing that. My personal favorite solo of his is from his album with Beth hart called Black Coffee. There’s a track on that alum called Lullaby of leaves and it starts with just Beth singing away the beautiful tune but has an entire new dimension added to it when Joe starts playing that end solo and just blasts away everything around him. Further more can I not recommend any live album more then ‘Live in Greek theatre’

[@martingreenwood3394]

Probably because he’s boring and a glorified tribute artist with no feel whatsoever

[@kalbot98]

Awesome list! And congrats with the newborn!

[@SoyElUnicoGabachin]

Love that you put some finger picking guitarists in the list, they are generally underrated. But really surprised that Eddie Van Halen is not the list. He's brilliant, innovative, with a great personality as a guitarist. Makes me feel really good when I hear him.

[@richat1691]

only Americans like EVH

[@biscaynediver]

Speaking of finger pickers, interesting to see Peter Green chosen over his Fleetwood Mac successor, the old finger picker Lindsey Buckingham. I'd take Buckingham over Green any day.

[@agentramses8617]

I love your premise of The list. The feeling that The Music gives you.

[@lawrencetaylor4101]

My uncle lived to play the guitar. Even though he died several times during his youth, he always managed to kick the lid off at the service, or dig himself out. And the first thing he'd do was to pick up his guitar and go back to practicing. He had a dream to achieve notoriety and become the 31st best guitarist in the world. And he finally achieved it. He learned that A sharp Major flat 17th chord and he thought that he had made it. He saw your video was the 30th greatest...with no honorable mentions, that he decided to drink himself to death. We buried him with a YUGE rock on top of his antepenultimate resting place, but through his trusty Freddy Fender Signature Fender Transistor Radiocaster on top of the rock instead of another tombstone, since the family decided we didn't want any more expenses. And we hung one of those pine tree air fresheners on it since he wasn't smelling too good.

[@GuitarPilgrim]

Hahaha, best comment ever!

[@steveplace4703]

I just enjoyed it all.......whether some of my favourites were missing didn't matter, just great playing as usual Thom. Good luck with your move back to The Netherlands. Hope that once you're settled in, you continue with these videos. Thanks for everything so far 🙂

[@koos48]

I was terrified Jan Akkerman might not be included. Thanks. He deserves his listing.

[@CraigHollabaugh]

was surprised with Akkerman as well. He missed Alvin Lee.

[@pharmerdavid1432]

@@CraigHollabaugh He missed way more than Alvin Lee: Albert Lee, Jeff Beck, Clarence White, Duane Allman, etc. And how about Mike Harris playing slide with B/G benders sounding like a pedal steel on regular guitar? Talent up the whazoo!

[@CraigHollabaugh]

@@pharmerdavid1432 GP just needs the second top 20 list

[@kieselsteinchen9795]

Oh. Not to forget Robby Robertson! Very specific sound and style

[@gitaaa7740]

What no Jeff Beck! But I like your number 1!

[@Froggyh63]

So impressive to see you play all those styles! Only one not on the list for me was Glenn Campbell. Great list tho!

[@Hartmann1939]

Number 1 really is the guitar guy ☝🏼

[@alexandrospapavasileiou1799]

Rory Gallagher,Paul kossoff,Randy Rhodes,Gary Moore and many more😉

[@more77]

Дружище! Ты просто гитарный МОНСТР!!!! Полный респект и принятие!!! Повторять игру гитаристов разных стилей может только редкий музыкант!!!👏👏👏👏👏👍🤝💥

[@jamesleenelson]

Very interesting list. I loved it, and I agree about the shredders-they don’t move me. Also agree with Jimi Hendrix at the top. It’s not an easy list to make, and it is subjective, and there are a lot of greats. Your list was very original and moving! Thanks for sharing. Good luck with the move. Jim

[@jacko717]

Great video, great playing Thom. Shout for Albert King, the greatest "feel" player ever, Hank Marvin, the original guitar hero, and Ron Asheton from The Stooges.

[@rattusrattusrattus6883]

Ron Asheton is so underrated it hurts. I’d argue he changed guitar just as much as Hendrix. Totally unique.

[@KariKauree]

How can Hank Marvin be the original guitar hero when there were guitar heroes before him?

[@jacko717]

@@KariKauree it's called an opinion. Feel free to offer yours. If you don't care for other people's opinions, perhaps the internet isn't for you.

[@KariKauree]

@@jacko717 I did "feel free" to point out the fact that there were guitar heroes before Hank Marvin, but you didn't take it too well...

[@KariKauree]

@@jacko717 If you meant he was your personal original guitar hero, that is not something one could argue against :)

[@WorkmanJohn]

I love your choices for your top 30 axemen...as your fans say, there are many others that could have been included but, as you said, this list is yours. Of course it's subjective. I like your inclusion of Jerry Reed and Tommy Emmanuel, two guys who are acoustic heroes. My choice for my top acoustic guitarist would be Natalicio Lima of Los Indios Tabajaras. He could play vintage South American music as well as American pop tunes and he and his brother Antenor shone playing classical music as well like Bach, Chopin etc... Do Investigate their catalogue Thom, especially their LP Casually Classic.It's a wonderful collection.

[@Triumphcruiser]

I really think Satriani gets overlooked way too often , he is a virtuoso that writes incredible heart felt melodies , particularly in the early years . A listen to the surfing with the alien album will confirm this .

[@craigrheberling]

when i heard jimi hendrix play "red house", live, in '69, he played a lick in his lead break that hit my ear so hard- intensity!- i could not find words to speak for about 20 minutes. i knew, at that moment, that i would never forget that "3 note repeated passage" - seared right into my brain!

[@GuitarPilgrim]

That must have been awesome, wish I was there

[@matthewoconnell114]

There’s something quite tragic about this list… and it actually isn’t that I necessarily disagree with the choices made (with a few exceptions that I noted in a previous comment). Let’s assume that this is actually the true list of the 30 greatest guitarists of all time. Notice anything odd? Outside of John Mayer, all of these people are in their late 60’s, 70’s, or dead. There are literally no young, up and coming guitarists on this list. I’m 58 and when I was in my early teens there were tons of great guitarists in their 30’s, etc., and lots more coming along. Being a lead guitarists was one of the coolest things imaginable. There is literally a dearth of great young guitarists - and I’m not just talking about shredders who can play at the speed of sound. I’m talking about guitarists who are making iconic riffs, and creating personal sounds, ala Hendrix, Richards, Clapton, Page, etc., that will last for decades. Just an observation about the state of guitar as it is.

[@guitarhero2022]

You have to have a body of work to be recognized as a GOAT. If you’re 30 you prob don’t have that.

[@jaywu4956]

maybe you should do some math. When you were in your early teens all those people were in their 30's. So, yeah. You are contradicting your own argument

[@lopezb]

Great video! The best part of course is the kid at the end....congratulations!!! The best part of life!

[@1Keef]

That was an extremely entertaining and informative video. Your virtuosity and versatility never cease to amaze me. I agree with over 90% of your list. From my perspective guitarists missing from the list include Johnny Winter, David Gilmour, Chuck Berry, Duane Allman, JJ Cale, Albert King and some of the jazz greats including Django Reinhart, Joe Pass and Wes Montgomery. I was also curious, do you play professionally or are you a bedroom rockstar? Cheers! 👍👍

[@GuitarPilgrim]

I love playing Chopin, I'm a bedroom Chopin pianist

[@1Keef]

@@GuitarPilgrim So I am assuming you perform professionally on guitar. Have you made any recordings?

[@musiclive1911]

Totally love your playing of BB.King. His playing is not only the technics but about the feel, the emotions. You did it!

[@robsthedon]

Insightful upload, thanks!

[@kovugreen]

Great list! Personally the only ''shred'' guitarist that I genuinely love is Randy Rhoads, he had a fantastic sense of melody for composing, his solos send me on a trip and leave me with goose bumps which seems missing from every other shred guitarist I hear. A lot of them play fast and technical just for the sake of playing fast and technical and their general approach and choice of melody is usually just ''meh'' to me. Randy's sound was massive like an untamable spitting dragon and he still had that raw tonal quality from those 70's guys.

[@jochem420]

Nice to hear youre moving back to the Netherlands, sure youre gonna miss Ireland though