{"id":45249,"date":"2025-05-02T17:00:57","date_gmt":"2025-05-02T16:00:57","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/?p=45249"},"modified":"2026-04-14T16:18:39","modified_gmt":"2026-04-14T15:18:39","slug":"greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/","title":{"rendered":"The 29 Greatest Guitar Solos of All Time"},"content":{"rendered":"<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#In_a_hurry\" >In a hurry? \u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#The_greatest_guitar_solos_of_all_time\" >The greatest guitar solos of all time\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#1_%E2%80%9CFree_Bird%E2%80%9D_by_Lynyrd_Skynyrd_Guitarist_Allen_Collins_1973\" >1. \u201cFree Bird\u201d by Lynyrd Skynyrd (Guitarist: Allen Collins, 1973) \u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#2_%E2%80%9CSultans_of_Swing%E2%80%9D_by_Dire_Straits_Guitarist_Mark_Knopfler_1978\" >2. \u201cSultans of Swing\u201d by Dire Straits (Guitarist: Mark Knopfler, 1978)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#3_%E2%80%9CHotel_California%E2%80%9D_by_Eagles_Guitarists_Don_Felder_and_Joe_Walsh_1977\" >3. \u201cHotel California\u201d by Eagles (Guitarists: Don Felder and Joe Walsh, 1977)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#4_%E2%80%9CStairway_to_Heaven%E2%80%9D_by_Led_Zeppelin_Guitarist_Jimmy_Page_1971\" >4. \u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d by Led Zeppelin (Guitarist: Jimmy Page, 1971)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#5_%E2%80%9CMr_Crowley%E2%80%9D_by_Ozzy_Osbourne_Guitarist_Randy_Rhoads_1980\" >5. \u00a0\u201cMr Crowley\u201d by Ozzy Osbourne (Guitarist: Randy Rhoads, 1980)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#6_%E2%80%9CMinor_Swing%E2%80%9D_by_Django_Reinhardt_Guitarist_Django_Reinhardt_1937\" >6. \u201cMinor Swing\u201d by Django Reinhardt (Guitarist: Django Reinhardt, 1937)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#7_%E2%80%9CNothing_Else_Matters%E2%80%9D_by_Metallica_Guitarist_James_Hetfield_1991\" >7. \u201cNothing Else Matters\u201d by Metallica (Guitarist: James Hetfield, 1991)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#8_%E2%80%9CSamba_Pa_Ti%E2%80%9D_by_Santana_Guitarist_Carlos_Santana_1970\" >8. \u201cSamba Pa Ti\u201d by Santana (Guitarist: Carlos Santana, 1970)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#9_%E2%80%9CSweet_Child_O_Mine%E2%80%9D_by_Guns_N_Roses_Guitarist_Slash_1987\" >9. \u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d by Guns N\u2019 Roses (Guitarist: Slash, 1987) \u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#10_%E2%80%9CBohemian_Rhapsody%E2%80%9D_by_Queen_Guitarist_Brian_May_1975\" >10. \u201cBohemian Rhapsody\u201d by Queen (Guitarist: Brian May, 1975)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#11_%E2%80%9CBat_Country%E2%80%9D_by_Avenged_Sevenfold_Guitarist_Synyster_Gates_2005\" >11. \u201cBat Country\u201d by Avenged Sevenfold (Guitarist: Synyster Gates, 2005)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#12_%E2%80%9CThrough_the_Fire_and_Flames%E2%80%9D_by_DragonForce_Guitarists_Herman_Li_and_Sam_Totman_2005\" >12. \u201cThrough the Fire and Flames\u201d by DragonForce (Guitarists: Herman Li and Sam Totman, 2005)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#13_%E2%80%9CPlaying_GOD%E2%80%9D_by_Polyphia_Guitarist_Tim_Henson_2022\" >13. \u201cPlaying GOD\u201d by Polyphia (Guitarist: Tim Henson, 2022)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#14_%E2%80%9CMaggot_Brain%E2%80%9D_by_Funkadelic_Guitarist_Eddie_Hazel_1971\" >14. \u201cMaggot Brain\u201d by Funkadelic (Guitarist: Eddie Hazel, 1971) \u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#15_%E2%80%9CThe_Thrill_Is_Gone%E2%80%9D_by_BB_King_Guitarist_BB_King_1969\" >15. \u201cThe Thrill Is Gone\u201d by B.B. King (Guitarist: B.B. King, 1969)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#16_%E2%80%9CRock_Bottom%E2%80%9D_by_UFO_Guitarist_Michael_Schenker_1974\" >16. \u201cRock Bottom\u201d by UFO (Guitarist: Michael Schenker, 1974)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#17_%E2%80%9CLittle_Wing%E2%80%9D_by_The_Jimi_Hendrix_Experience_Guitarist_Jimi_Hendrix_1967\" >17. \u201cLittle Wing\u201d by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (Guitarist: Jimi Hendrix, 1967)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#18_%E2%80%9CCome_as_You_Are%E2%80%9D_by_Nirvana_Guitarist_Kurt_Cobain_1992\" >18. \u201cCome as You Are\u201d by Nirvana (Guitarist: Kurt Cobain, 1992)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#19_%E2%80%9CHey%E2%80%9D_by_Pixies_Guitarist_Joey_Santiago_1989\" >19. \u201cHey\u201d by Pixies (Guitarist: Joey Santiago, 1989)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#20_%E2%80%9CTime%E2%80%9D_by_Pink_Floyd_Guitarist_David_Gilmour_1973\" >20. \u201cTime\u201d by Pink Floyd (Guitarist: David Gilmour, 1973)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#21_%E2%80%9CParanoid_Android%E2%80%9D_by_Radiohead_Guitarist_Jonny_Greenwood_1997\" >21. \u201cParanoid Android\u201d by Radiohead (Guitarist: Jonny Greenwood, 1997)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-24\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#22_%E2%80%9CKiss%E2%80%9D_by_Prince_and_The_Revolution_Guitarist_Prince_1986\" >22. \u201cKiss\u201d by Prince and The Revolution (Guitarist: Prince, 1986) \u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-25\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#23_%E2%80%9CEruption%E2%80%9D_by_Eddie_Van_Halen_Guitarist_Eddie_Van_Halen_1978\" >23. \u201cEruption\u201d by Eddie Van Halen (Guitarist: Eddie Van Halen, 1978)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-26\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#24_%E2%80%9CLay_It_on_the_Line%E2%80%9D_by_Triumph_Guitarist_Rik_Emmett_1979\" >24. \u201cLay It on the Line\u201d by Triumph (Guitarist: Rik Emmett, 1979)\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-27\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#25_%E2%80%9CI_Wanna_Be_Adored%E2%80%9D_by_The_Stone_Roses_Guitarist_John_Squire\" >25. \u201cI Wanna Be Adored\u201d by The Stone Roses (Guitarist: John Squire) \u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-28\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#26_%E2%80%9CI_Want_You_Shes_So_Heavy%E2%80%9D_Guitarist_John_Lennon_1969\" >26. \u201cI Want You (She\u2019s So Heavy)\u201d (Guitarist: John Lennon, 1969) \u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-29\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#27_%E2%80%9CStart_Choppin_%E2%80%9D_by_Dinosaur_Jr_Guitarist_J_Mascis_1993\" >27. \u201cStart Choppin\u2019 \u201d by Dinosaur Jr (Guitarist: J Mascis, 1993)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-30\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#28_%E2%80%9CIncinerate%E2%80%9D_by_Sonic_Youth_Guitarist_Thurston_Moore_2006\" >28. \u201cIncinerate\u201d by Sonic Youth (Guitarist: Thurston Moore, 2006)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-31\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#29_%E2%80%9CCountry_Boy%E2%80%9D_by_Albert_Lee_Guitarist_Albert_Lee_1971\" >29. \u201cCountry Boy\u201d by Albert Lee (Guitarist: Albert Lee, 1971)\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-32\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#Play_your_own_solo\" >Play your own solo<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-33\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#FAQs\" >FAQs\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-4' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-34\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#What_is_the_hardest_guitar_solo_of_all_time\" >What is the hardest guitar solo of all time?\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-35\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#What_is_the_most_iconic_guitar_riff_of_all_time\" >What is the most iconic guitar riff of all time?\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-4'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-36\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#What_is_Eric_Claptons_greatest_guitar_solo\" >What is Eric Clapton\u2019s greatest guitar solo?\u00a0\u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-37\" href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/greatest-guitar-solos-of-all-time\/#Final_thoughts\" >Final thoughts \u00a0<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<p>[et_pb_section fb_built=&#8221;1&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_row _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;4_4&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.16&#8243; custom_padding=&#8221;|||&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; custom_padding__hover=&#8221;|||&#8221;][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Intro&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; hover_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221; sticky_enabled=&#8221;0&#8243;]<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #999999;\">Featured image: Creative Commons License by <\/span><a id=\"yui_3_16_0_1_1746194733734_2318\" class=\"owner-name truncate\" title=\"Go to Xavier Badosa\u2019s photostream\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/badosa\/9488688374\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"author noopener\" data-track=\"attributionNameClick\">Xavier Badosa<\/a><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The best <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/guitar.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guitar<\/a><\/strong> solo ever is something that&#8217;s always up for intense debate. Still, most guitarists can agree on the basic fact that guitar solos make up some of the most memorable music moments we\u2019ve ever witnessed. I\u2019d even go as far as to say a solid guitar solo is enough to elevate certain songs to &#8220;favourite&#8221; status. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In this article, I\u2019ll explore the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">greatest guitar solos of all time<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, covering everything from those heard in classic rock anthems like Lynyrd Skynyrd\u2019s \u201cFree Bird\u201d to the modern wizardry of artists like Polyphia. There\u2019s a solo for every type of guitarist on this list \u2013 you\u2019ll either have your top spot predictions confirmed or be invited to listen to something you might otherwise avoid\u2026 <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=&#8221;https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/stateless-blog-g4m-co-uk\/2024\/07\/Secondhand-Guitars.jpg&#8221; alt=&#8221;Secondhand Guitars&#8221; title_text=&#8221;Secondhand-Guitars&#8221; url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/secondhand\/guitars?utm_source=blog&#038;utm_medium=banner&#038;utm_campaign=secondhand_guitars&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;Secondhand Guitars Banner&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_module=&#8221;41670&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;In a hurry?  &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"In_a_hurry\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">In a hurry? <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re only interested in the cr\u00e8me de la cr\u00e8me of guitar solos, then the top five listed below should suffice.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cFree Bird\u201d by Lynyrd Skynyrd (Guitarist: Allen Collins) ~ 5 min mark <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSultans of Swing\u201d by Dire Straits (Guitarist: Mark Knopfler) ~ 5 min mark<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cHotel California\u201d by Eagles (Guitarists: Don Felder and Joe Walsh)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d by Led Zeppelin (Guitarist: Jimmy Page)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:0,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769242&quot;:[65533,0],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;%1.&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cMr Crowley\u201d by Ozzy Osbourne (Guitarist: Randy Rhoads)\u00a0<\/span> \u00a0<span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/guitar.html&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP GUITARS&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;The greatest guitar solos of all time &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"The_greatest_guitar_solos_of_all_time\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">The greatest guitar solos of all time\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"1_%E2%80%9CFree_Bird%E2%80%9D_by_Lynyrd_Skynyrd_Guitarist_Allen_Collins_1973\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">1. \u201cFree Bird\u201d by Lynyrd Skynyrd (Guitarist: Allen Collins, 1973) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Brimming with bends that don\u2019t stop coming, Allen Collins delivered the greatest guitar solo of all time on Lynyrd Skynyrd\u2019s \u201cFree Bird.\u201d His solo drastically lifts the tempo of the song, cementing the transition from the slower, more melancholic side of the track to the full-steam-ahead guitar destruction that you witness in the second half.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Aside from the fact that this solo absolutely shreds, it also highlights the power of guitar solos when it comes to composition, moving the track from one mood into another, leading the charge with a solo that stretches just over the four-minute mark. Another nice little thing about Collins\u2019 playing is that he often made use of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Gibson\/Designer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Gibson Designer<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> models such as the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Gibson\/Designer?page=1&amp;filters%5b381%5d=814\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Firebird<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, bringing the brand&#8217;s unconventional shapes to stardom. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"2_%E2%80%9CSultans_of_Swing%E2%80%9D_by_Dire_Straits_Guitarist_Mark_Knopfler_1978\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">2. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cSultans of Swing\u201d by Dire Straits (Guitarist: Mark Knopfler, 1978)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s no surprise that one of the greatest guitarists of all time has delivered so many great solos over the span of his career. In \u201cSultans of Swing\u201d, Mark Knopfler graces our ears with two awesome solos, alongside tonnes of tasty licks. The first solo is a little more laid back, while the second offers a dramatic rounding off, making full use of Knopfler\u2019s iconic fingerpicking technique and arpeggios. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Why is this one of the greatest solos of all time? Because it shows that solos don\u2019t have to be overly flashy. \u201cSultans of Swing\u201d is the case in point, using solos that roll off the phrases and chords used in the song all the way through &#8211; even the latter solo matches the vibe of the song without detracting too much from the overall feel. With his fingerpicking, Knopfler can make solos to meet the precise demands of the song.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"3_%E2%80%9CHotel_California%E2%80%9D_by_Eagles_Guitarists_Don_Felder_and_Joe_Walsh_1977\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">3. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cHotel California\u201d by Eagles (Guitarists: Don Felder and Joe Walsh, 1977)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Two wings of the Eagles, Don Felder and Joe Walsh, come together to create a classic rock extravaganza with their joint guitar work on \u201cHotel California.\u201d Lasting just over two minutes, this solo is an exhibition of why your band needs more guitarists, it\u2019s the epitome of good old-school American rock. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you want to hear two guitarists talk to each other with nothing but their playing, book into Hotel California. Felder and Walsh begin by taking turns on lead before uniting in a stunning harmonised section that finishes the song. Letting two guitarists share the glory of such an epic guitar solo only enhances the greatness of this guitar solo \u2013 there\u2019s a reason why this is one that every guitarist has tried to master. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/09839DpTctU?si=ZrOLILo5WCeGGZf4\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"4_%E2%80%9CStairway_to_Heaven%E2%80%9D_by_Led_Zeppelin_Guitarist_Jimmy_Page_1971\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">4. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d by Led Zeppelin (Guitarist: Jimmy Page, 1971)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Standing as one of the greatest songs of all time, let alone one of the greatest solos, \u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d is often cited as the most played guitar song in music shops around the world, and for good reason. In the production of the track, Jimmy Page made use of three guitars, blending delicate fingerpicked parts with harder rock strumming, culminating in the legendary solo heard just over halfway through the song.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The live performance demands of the song meant that Page picked up his legendary Gibson EDS-1275 double-neck. This guitar rose to the challenge, leading to one of the greatest solos of all time. Covering the whole of <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">two <\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">necks, shifting speeds, bending, and hammering on &#8211; no technique was safe from Page\u2019s dominance with this solo.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For its sheer skill and making the double-neck the icon that it is, the \u201cStairway\u201d solo belongs among the top five solos of all time. It\u2019s relentless, roaring, and world-renowned. Gear4Music\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Brooklyn-Double-Neck-Guitar-by-Gear4music\/1SUM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Brooklyn Double Neck Guitar<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">is a great way to give \u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d a whirl on your own if you dare.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"5_%E2%80%9CMr_Crowley%E2%80%9D_by_Ozzy_Osbourne_Guitarist_Randy_Rhoads_1980\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">5. <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cMr Crowley\u201d by Ozzy Osbourne (Guitarist: Randy Rhoads, 1980)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One of the original metal shred-masters, Randy Rhoads delivers a bone-crushing solo on Ozzy Osbourne\u2019s \u201cMr Crowley,\u201d spanning the whole expanse of the neck with unbelievable speed and precision. This solo has inspired countless metalheads, using every shredding technique under the sun, from trills and arpeggios to dynamic sweep picking and bends that push the limits of what a guitar can do. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The \u2018Prince of Darkness\u2019 would expect nothing but the best guitarist to accompany him on his solo venture, hence why Randy Rhoads was the shredder he chose. Infusing classical influences with pure metal power, Rhoads\u2019 guitar work on Mr Crowley absolutely rips.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"6_%E2%80%9CMinor_Swing%E2%80%9D_by_Django_Reinhardt_Guitarist_Django_Reinhardt_1937\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">6. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cMinor Swing\u201d by Django Reinhardt (Guitarist: Django Reinhardt, 1937)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Who would\u2019ve thought an acoustic guitar would feature on the list of greatest guitar solos of all time? Well, this one has earned its place. The biggest name in Gypsy jazz, Django Reinhardt\u2019s playing on \u201cMinor Swing\u201d exercises immense speed, crazy runs, and some super interesting use of chromaticism. Oh, and that\u2019s all while suffering an impairment to his left hand, meaning he could only fret with two fingers!<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reinhardt\u2019s solo here is one of the greatest of all time because it exemplifies a whole genre \u2013 when people think of gypsy jazz, it\u2019s Reinhardt and songs like \u201cMinor Swing\u201d that come to mind. If a solo can define a whole genre, it belongs on this list. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/uTlo809EIlo?si=WuiZuZARzfUaAZt9\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"7_%E2%80%9CNothing_Else_Matters%E2%80%9D_by_Metallica_Guitarist_James_Hetfield_1991\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">7. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cNothing Else Matters\u201d by Metallica (Guitarist: James Hetfield, 1991)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Proof that you don\u2019t need to play insanely fast to make one of the greatest guitar solos of all time, James Hetfield unleashes a melancholic masterpiece in the E minor pentatonic scale. While it\u2019s trendy to disavow pentatonic scales these days, the solo form \u201cNothing Else Matters\u201d will forever lay claim to nailing it in the right way.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It might come as a surprise that Metallica\u2019s lead guitarist, Kirk Hammett, does not play on the recording. These days, he plays the solo live, but at the time of recording, it made more sense for Hetfield to play it since he wrote every guitar part.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You can get your hands on Metallica signature models like the<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Epiphone-Kirk-Hammett-1979-Flying-V-Ebony\/678N\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">or the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/ESP-LTD-James-Hetfield-Snakebyte-Satin-Black-Ex-Demo\/71M1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">if you want to try and let rip like Metallica.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"8_%E2%80%9CSamba_Pa_Ti%E2%80%9D_by_Santana_Guitarist_Carlos_Santana_1970\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">8. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cSamba Pa Ti\u201d by Santana (Guitarist: Carlos Santana, 1970)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Santana\u2019s solo in \u201cSamba Pa Ti\u201d is one long, reflectively mellow piece, and it\u2019s one he attributes to be a clear depiction of his playing style. Fusing blues, rock, and Latin American influences, Santana starts with smooth, slow-tempo bends. Before you know it, \u201cSamba Pa Ti\u201d is in full swing as the playing picks up pace with faster hammer-ons and pull-offs, along with swift runs up the neck. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This one takes the eighth spot because of the beautiful combo of influences, bringing Latin American musical themes to a wider audience through the medium of blues &#8211; the 1974 international release of the song was actually the first of Santana\u2019s singles to chart in the UK. It goes to show that a great guitar solo portrays the passion and identity of the artist.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"9_%E2%80%9CSweet_Child_O_Mine%E2%80%9D_by_Guns_N_Roses_Guitarist_Slash_1987\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">9. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d by Guns N\u2019 Roses (Guitarist: Slash, 1987) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A true classic, and yet another song played in countless music shops around the world, the solo in \u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d is a real screamer. Slash builds this one up slowly with a few drawn-out notes, making that Les Paul sing. The use of a wah pedal gives the solo its characteristic expression, adding to the vocal quality of the guitar. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re looking to recreate Slash\u2019s iconic \u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d solo, the <\/span>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Dunlop-SW95-CryBaby-Slash-Signature-Wah-Pedal\/DJN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dunlop SW95 CryBaby Slash Signature Wah Pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">does the trick. Pair that with the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Gibson-Slash-Victoria-Les-Paul-Gold-Top\/3HC5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Gibson Slash Victoria Les Paul, Gold Top<\/span><\/b><\/a>, <span data-contrast=\"auto\">and you\u2019ll start to look like Slash. It\u2019s one of the greatest solos of all time because of its pure singing tone, making it a flawless hard rock guitar solo.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/1w7OgIMMRc4?si=QRv7XECa8-ckrKlh\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"10_%E2%80%9CBohemian_Rhapsody%E2%80%9D_by_Queen_Guitarist_Brian_May_1975\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">10. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cBohemian Rhapsody\u201d by Queen (Guitarist: Brian May, 1975)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With the homemade sound of Brian May\u2019s unique \u201cRed Special\u201d guitar powered through Vox AC30, one of the greatest solos of the twentieth century was born. \u201cBohemian Rhapsody\u2019s\u201d solo is one that you can sing along to, and it\u2019s meant to be.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The song captures the ethos of Queen &#8211; theatrical underpinnings with a huge rock kick, blending Freddie&#8217;s powerful vocals with delicate piano playing, only to be topped off with May\u2019s screaming solo. This one rounds off our top 10, proving that, if done properly, a guitar solo can work with any composition \u2013 even if it\u2019s one with a more theatrical twist. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"11_%E2%80%9CBat_Country%E2%80%9D_by_Avenged_Sevenfold_Guitarist_Synyster_Gates_2005\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">11. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cBat Country\u201d by Avenged Sevenfold (Guitarist: Synyster Gates, 2005)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Giving metalheads a taste of that sweet, sweet legato, Synyster Gates absolutely demolishes the solo in \u201cBat Country.\u201d Brimming with vibrato, the occasional squeal, and a bit of tapping here and there, this solo is the pinnacle of heavy metal guitar. With his dizzying solo, varied tempo and combined techniques, Gates matches the vibe of \u201cBat Country\u201d to perfection. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This solo sits near the top of the list as it demos a range of shredding techniques \u2013 if you\u2019re an aspiring metalhead, you should give this one a listen to gain a few of the basics. Of course, it also absolutely rips, and Gates shows how fun metal can be when you get it on lock. <\/span>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Schecter-Synyster-Standard-White\/3B84\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Gates Standard<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is a sure-fire way of getting that shredding feel, and so is the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Schecter-Synyster-Gates-Custom-6-TR-S-Headless-SBK\/6TAU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Schecter Synyster Gates Custom 6 TR S Headless<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, only with a twist.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_%E2%80%9CThrough_the_Fire_and_Flames%E2%80%9D_by_DragonForce_Guitarists_Herman_Li_and_Sam_Totman_2005\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">12. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cThrough the Fire and Flames\u201d by DragonForce (Guitarists: Herman Li and Sam Totman, 2005)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The epitome of speed in a guitar solo, Herman Li and Sam Totman destroy what\u2019s credited as one of the fastest guitar parts. Even non-guitarists recognise this solo as one of immense speed and precision. Making use of hammer-ons, fast alternate-picking and sweeping arpeggios, the duo provides an impeccable power metal performance. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cThrough the Fire and the Flames\u201d must be up there as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time, thanks to its unflinching speed and widespread recognition, even among people who aren\u2019t considered cult-fans. Li and Totman make Guitar Hero look like a doddle with this masterpiece. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/0jgrCKhxE1s?si=8HBTJpiwyXFZh-_N\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"13_%E2%80%9CPlaying_GOD%E2%80%9D_by_Polyphia_Guitarist_Tim_Henson_2022\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">13. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cPlaying GOD\u201d by Polyphia (Guitarist: Tim Henson, 2022)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tim Henson proves that the greatest guitar solos aren\u2019t stuck in the past. With his innovative picking style, heavy use of harmonics and swift phrasing, he boasts a modern arsenal of techniques that make for a super unique playing style. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cPlaying GOD\u201d incorporates classical fingerpicked styles. It <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">makes the cut as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time because of the effortless high level of technicality used, seen by many as an almost impossible style to play if you\u2019re not well-versed in certain techniques. If you\u2019re a lefty looking for Tim Henson\u2019s tone, his <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Ibanez-TOD10NL-Tim-Henson-Signature-Electro-Nylon-Left-Handed-Black\/6A9L\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">signature Ibanez TOD10NL<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is the guitar for you.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"14_%E2%80%9CMaggot_Brain%E2%80%9D_by_Funkadelic_Guitarist_Eddie_Hazel_1971\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">14. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cMaggot Brain\u201d by Funkadelic (Guitarist: Eddie Hazel, 1971) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A destructive 10-minute solo recorded in one take \u2013 Eddie Hazel\u2019s playing on the album title track \u201cMaggot Brain\u201d is a mesmerising piece. Covering the E-minor pentatonic scale, the solo is heavily inspired by Jimi Hendrix, using intense vibrato to make his Strat swell, sing, and squeal. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While often overlooked, Hazel has been lauded by Flea, RHCP\u2019s bassist, to be on a par with Hendrix, although both have their own unique quirks. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cMaggot brain\u201d is one of the most captivating and awe inspiring solos of all time, every time you listen you\u2019ll pick up on little notes or phrases that you missed the time before, making it a timeless masterpiece that certainly needs more attention \u2013 not least to pay homage to Hazel\u2019s great guitar playing.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"15_%E2%80%9CThe_Thrill_Is_Gone%E2%80%9D_by_BB_King_Guitarist_BB_King_1969\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">15. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cThe Thrill Is Gone\u201d by B.B. King (Guitarist: B.B. King, 1969)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">No one can make single notes sound quite as good as B.B. King can. With his vibrato and string bending, every note is brought to life. \u201cThe Thrill Is Gone\u201d is a testament to this. You can tell that B.B. King has an absolute mastery over the guitar, delivering sweeping blues tones with ease. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Using his unique semi-hollow guitar design with the f-holes removed, B.B. King achieves even more clarity, reducing the feedback often experienced with semi-hollow guitars. If you want to try your own hand at playing like the King of Blues, try out the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Epiphone-BB-King-Lucille-Ebony\/42BI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Epiphone Lucille<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> \u2013 a beautiful blues machine.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/4fk2prKnYnI?si=Gnldod8AigvDLlAH\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"16_%E2%80%9CRock_Bottom%E2%80%9D_by_UFO_Guitarist_Michael_Schenker_1974\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">16. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cRock Bottom\u201d by UFO (Guitarist: Michael Schenker, 1974)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If a solo is good enough to rank as Kirk Hammett\u2019s number one solo, I <em>had <\/em>to include it on our list. Revolving around the Dorian scale, Michael Schenker creates an encompassing solo that builds slowly into a maniacal masterpiece that\u2019s full of fast-paced hammer-ons and pull-offs, only to be ended with a dizzying vibrato bend on the 15<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> fret.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What makes this solo even more awesome is that Schenker wrote it when he was 17\u2026 Writing such beastly solos at such a young age is a testament to Schenker\u2019s skill as a great guitar player, earning \u201cRock Bottom\u201d a place as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"17_%E2%80%9CLittle_Wing%E2%80%9D_by_The_Jimi_Hendrix_Experience_Guitarist_Jimi_Hendrix_1967\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">17. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cLittle Wing\u201d by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (Guitarist: Jimi Hendrix, 1967)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By far one of the most melodic solos ever written \u2013 Jimi Hendrix\u2019s solo on \u201cLittle Wing\u201d is the definition of making your guitar sing. From the introductory triple harmonics on the 12<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> fret to the full bends on the 15<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, he turns his Strat into a vocal machine. Hendrix performs this solo as an outro, fading the song out with a blaze of stunning Strat power.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Every guitarist wants to achieve Hendrix\u2019s legendary tone at least once. You can use the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Fender-Jimi-Hendrix-Stratocaster-Olympic-White\/1DW9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Fender Jimi Hendrix Strat<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, hook it up to a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/PRS-HDRX-20-Hendrix-Circuit-Head-Black-Tolex\/5O16\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">PRS HDRX 20 \u201cHendrix\u201d Circuit head<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and run your signal through a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Dunlop-Fuzz-Face-Mini-Hendrix-Turquoise-FFM3\/QZ7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dunlop Fuzz Face Mini Hendrix<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">for those ferocious, fuzz-laden rock tones. The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Dunlop-JH01-Hendrix-Woodstock-Guitar-Strap\/6H9E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dunlop JH01 Hendrix Woodstock Guitar Strap<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">also makes for a fitting finishing touch if you\u2019re going for the full-Hendrix experience.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>For a further insight into Hendrix&#8217;s gear and how you can recreate his rig for yourself, check out our rundown of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/jimi-hendrix-guitars\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jimi Hendrix&#8217;s setup<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"18_%E2%80%9CCome_as_You_Are%E2%80%9D_by_Nirvana_Guitarist_Kurt_Cobain_1992\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">18. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cCome as You Are\u201d by Nirvana (Guitarist: Kurt Cobain, 1992)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If I had to recommend a solo to any beginner guitarist, it\u2019d be Kurt Cobain\u2019s ripping solo in \u201cCome as You Are.\u201d Cobain shows that you can conjure something great with just a few notes, moving from the sixth fret to the ninth and then sliding up to the eleventh. Repeat that three times before bending on the eleventh and moving back down the fretboard in reverse order. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The \u201cCome as You Are\u201d solo has a sharp biting tone that\u2019s associated with many of Cobain\u2019s lead lines, thanks in no small part to his use of Fender <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Fender.html?page=1&amp;filters%5b251%5d=2361\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Jags<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Fender.html?page=1&amp;filters%5b251%5d=2363\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Mustangs<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> It\u2019s the epitome of grunge &#8211; minimising technicality while maximising a messy tone, making use of distortion pedals like the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Boss-DS-1-Distortion-Pedal\/7OT\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Boss DS-1<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Electro-Harmonix-Small-Clone-Analog-Chorus\/8WO\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">the Small Clone Chorus pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. This solo is one of the greatest because it puts tone over technicality.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/vabnZ9-ex7o?si=Hm6djOH6j0l5Jj4l\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"19_%E2%80%9CHey%E2%80%9D_by_Pixies_Guitarist_Joey_Santiago_1989\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">19. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cHey\u201d by Pixies (Guitarist: Joey Santiago, 1989)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Marrying the 17<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> fret on the G string with the 15<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> fret of the B string in a series of string bent double stops composes the first part of the solo in \u201cHey,&#8221; resulting in a guitar part that sounds like it\u2019s letting out a series of screams. It&#8217;s then followed by some smooth phrases at the lower end of the neck. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Joey Santiago\u2019s solo acts as his voice, as if he\u2019s talking to us with his guitar. It\u2019s this deep level of expression, combining drawn-out howls with slick licks, that makes \u201cHey\u2019s\u201d solo so awesome, standing not only as one of the greatest indie solos of all time, but one of the greatest solos of all time. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"20_%E2%80%9CTime%E2%80%9D_by_Pink_Floyd_Guitarist_David_Gilmour_1973\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">20. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cTime\u201d by Pink Floyd (Guitarist: David Gilmour, 1973)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When you think of Pink Floyd, especially David Gilmour\u2019s playing, you think of huge <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar_Amps\/Marshall.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Marshall<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> stacks, fat solos, and sound waves so powerful that you can feel them in your bones. While any of Gilmour\u2019s solos could make the cut as all-time greats, it\u2019s \u201cTime\u201d that takes the cake for me. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The solo perfectly captures the longing, nostalgia, and reminiscent vibe of the song, with drawn-out notes ringing just long enough for you to dwell on the passage of time and reflect on the lyrics. There\u2019s one thing for sure: a banger like this is sure to last more than a dozen lifetimes. The thick, edge-of-breakup tone is about as perfect as it can get \u2013 this solo sets the bar for British crunch. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"21_%E2%80%9CParanoid_Android%E2%80%9D_by_Radiohead_Guitarist_Jonny_Greenwood_1997\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">21. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cParanoid Android\u201d by Radiohead (Guitarist: Jonny Greenwood, 1997)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Jonny Greenwood is one of the most innovative guitarists of our generation, and his solo in \u201cParanoid Android\u201d shows off his unprecedented mastery of the instrument. He manipulates it to get the exact sound he wants, fitting Radiohead\u2019s diverse range of sound.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His high-attack, swiftly-picked solo with a disjunct melody matches the frenzied state of \u201cParanoid Android.&#8221; We\u2019ve discussed guitars singing and screaming plenty of times in this article, but discombobulating, breaking down and losing control? Greenwood\u2019s solo broke new ground for guitar, cementing Radiohead as a musical force in a world of their own. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/NzPtr_n-m8A?si=RCFa1sn40aBO2Rl0\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"22_%E2%80%9CKiss%E2%80%9D_by_Prince_and_The_Revolution_Guitarist_Prince_1986\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">22. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cKiss\u201d by Prince and The Revolution (Guitarist: Prince, 1986) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Prince\u2019s solo in \u201cKiss\u201d proves that expression can come from tight control just as much as complexity. In a track built on sharp funk minimalism, he delivers a solo that\u2019s raw, wiry, and unpolished. It slices through the mix with a dry, biting tone that captures that snappy funk feel. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">So far, we\u2019ve seen soaring leads, double stops, and a tonne of string bends in the list, but there\u2019s something about Prince\u2019s solo here that\u2019s just <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">different. <\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It doesn\u2019t do too much yet somehow manages to worm its way perfectly into a song that can be considered \u2018too much\u2019 or OTT. It\u2019s one of the greatest of all time, thanks to its effortless groove. It&#8217;s sure to get your head bobbing. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"23_%E2%80%9CEruption%E2%80%9D_by_Eddie_Van_Halen_Guitarist_Eddie_Van_Halen_1978\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">23. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cEruption\u201d by Eddie Van Halen (Guitarist: Eddie Van Halen, 1978)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Van Halen unleashes pure rock power with his \u201cEruption.\u201d Doing what it says on the tin, he spews out a series of intense lighting runs dictated by a unique two-handed tapping technique, tapping with his right hand and moving his left hand up the fretboard accordingly. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sometimes all you need is a hard and fast solo \u2013 this solo is rock &#8216;n\u2019 roll lead guitar at its finest. Any one of our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Electric_Guitars\/EVH\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">EVH<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> guitars will satisfy your urge to get on board with Van Halen\u2019s rampant playing style, with many of his <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Electric_Guitars\/EVH?page=1&amp;filters%5b449%5d=3330\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Striped series<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> models giving you the potential to really let rip like the legend himself.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"24_%E2%80%9CLay_It_on_the_Line%E2%80%9D_by_Triumph_Guitarist_Rik_Emmett_1979\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">24. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cLay It on the Line\u201d by Triumph (Guitarist: Rik Emmett, 1979)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Another classic rock screamer, \u201cLay It on the Line\u201d is a belter among old-school rock numbers. What makes the solo so impressive is Rik Emmett\u2019s effortless multitasking of vocals and guitar work, channelling pure rock energy. Full of fragrant bends, hefty power chords and fluid hammer-ons, \u201cLay It on the Line\u201d set the tone for \u201880s rock. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you want to hear a quintessential classic rock solo, \u201cLay It on the Line\u201d is the one I\u2019d recommend. While it doesn\u2019t stand out as a completely unique solo like some of the other picks on the list, it ticks all the boxes when it comes to being a retro rock \u2019n\u2019 roll banger that every guitarist should give a listen to at least once. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/nn_yRlYVnUw?si=rVxUkK9f_cX5JSOC\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"25_%E2%80%9CI_Wanna_Be_Adored%E2%80%9D_by_The_Stone_Roses_Guitarist_John_Squire\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">25. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cI Wanna Be Adored\u201d by The Stone Roses (Guitarist: John Squire) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Leading the charge as pioneers of the \u2019Madchester movement,\u2019 fusing different musical influences of psychedelic rock, new-wave, and post-punk in the 1980s, The Stone Roses are woven into the fabric of British music. John Squire\u2019s lead guitar features heavily on most of their tracks, adding twinkly melodic lines that gradually build into full-throttle grit. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cI Wanna Be Adored\u201d is one of the all-time classics from The Stone Roses, starting with a delicate guitar solo to set the lead motifs used throughout. Towards the end of the track, Squier pumps out a solo that feels as if the whole song has been building up to release that final explosion of expression. \u201cI Wanna Be Adored\u201d features one of the greatest solos of all time, recognised across generations. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"26_%E2%80%9CI_Want_You_Shes_So_Heavy%E2%80%9D_Guitarist_John_Lennon_1969\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">26. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cI Want You (She\u2019s So Heavy)\u201d (Guitarist: John Lennon, 1969) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Yep, you read that right, it was John Lennon, rather than George Harrison, who played the main solo on this track. The track&#8217;s heavier, malevolent-sounding guitar parts are broken up with a buttery blues solo that rolls right off the fingertips. While the Beatles pulled off plenty of great solos in their time, \u201cI Want You (She\u2019s So Heavy)\u201d offers something original, combining laid-back licks with some heavy arpeggios to break things up. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"27_%E2%80%9CStart_Choppin_%E2%80%9D_by_Dinosaur_Jr_Guitarist_J_Mascis_1993\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">27. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cStart Choppin\u2019 \u201d by Dinosaur Jr (Guitarist: J Mascis, 1993)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">J Mascis is one of the greatest guitarists of our generation, combining guitar mastery with gritty vocals that avoid bells and whistles. Everything he plays sounds effortless for him. \u201cStart Choppin\u2019\u201d is brimming with catchy lead parts, only to be broken up with face-melting solos that come out of nowhere. Mascis makes the guitar scream with heavy tremolo use and full bends. The smattering of squeals only adds to this solo. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re looking to let rip like Mascis, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Squier-J-Mascis-Jazzmaster-Vintage-White\/2C0J\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">is an offset that lets you do that at an affordable price. If you\u2019re like me and love your offsets and Dinosaur Jr, this guitar is a must-have. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Z_-JapMQUPQ?si=fSS1BiG8b2BiC-Qn\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\"><\/span><\/iframe><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"28_%E2%80%9CIncinerate%E2%80%9D_by_Sonic_Youth_Guitarist_Thurston_Moore_2006\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">28. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cIncinerate\u201d by Sonic Youth (Guitarist: Thurston Moore, 2006)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In typical Sonic Youth fashion, &#8220;Incinerate\u201d makes use of whacky open tuning. The D#-D#-A#-D#-G-G tuning, where the low E string is tuned to D#, the A string to A#, and the D string to D#, is what makes Thurston Moore\u2019s playing so unique. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The solo\u2019s tone is dirty, fast, and rugged, working its way up the neck, ending with some fast alternate picking. While it doesn\u2019t last that long, \u201cIncinerate\u201d has one of the greatest guitar solos ever. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"29_%E2%80%9CCountry_Boy%E2%80%9D_by_Albert_Lee_Guitarist_Albert_Lee_1971\"><\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">29. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cCountry Boy\u201d by Albert Lee (Guitarist: Albert Lee, 1971)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Your favourite guitarist&#8217;s favourite guitarist, Albert Lee dominates the fretboard with banjo-style picking in country fashion. Hybrid or \u2018Chick\u2019n picking\u2019 &#8211; combining a guitar pick with fingerpicking, Lee delivers a fury of notes that roll right off each other. While every aspect of the guitar playing on this track is awesome, the solo stands out with Lee\u2019s signature picking method, making this one of the greatest country solos ever. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Play your own solo&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Play_your_own_solo\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Play your own<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\"> solo<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To try your hand at the solos on this list or even invent your own, here\u2019s some essential gear that will put you on the right track! <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/MXR-M133-Micro-Amp-Pedal\/GXV\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">MXR M133 Micro Amp Pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This gives you the boost you\u2019ll need to soar with your solos, letting those notes ring out with impact.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Ibanez-TS9-Tube-Screamer\/6RI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer:<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">For that dirty saturation that\u2019ll add a screaming quality to your solos, this pedal has everything you need.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Boss-OC-5-Octave-Pedal\/3L1Y\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Boss OC-5 Octave pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While not heard in your average guitar solo, adding an octave effect to your solos will add some extra depth to your playing.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Line-6-Helix-HX-Stomp-Multi-Effects-Pedal\/40YR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Line 6 Helix HX Stomp Multi-effects Pedal:<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re looking to streamline your setup, a compact multi-FX like the Stomp will let you easily set up solo patches.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;FAQs &#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"FAQs\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">FAQs\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_hardest_guitar_solo_of_all_time\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is the hardest guitar solo of all time?\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While solo difficulty will vary from player to player, some of the hardest guitar solos of all time are those that combine high speed with tough techniques, such as:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cEruption\u201d by Van Halen (Guitarist: Eddie van Halen)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cRecuerdos de la Alhambra\u201d by <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Recuerdos de la Alhambra by Francisco T\u00e1rrega (Guitarist: Francisco T\u00e1rrega)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cFives\u201d by Gutherie Govan (Guitarist: Gutherie Govan)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cThrough the Fire and the Flames\u201d by DragonForce (Guitarists: Herman Li and Sam Totman)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cJuice\u201d by Steve Vai (Guitarist: Steve Vai)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_most_iconic_guitar_riff_of_all_time\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is the most iconic guitar riff of all time?\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Solos and riffs are the bread and butter of playing guitar, after covering 29 of the greatest solos, it\u2019s only right that we give honourable mention to some of the most iconic riffs \u2013 you\u2019re sure to recognise a few! <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d by Guns N\u2019 Roses (1989)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSmoke on the Water\u201d by Deep Purple (1972)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201c(I Can\u2019t Get No) Satisfaction\u201d by The Rolling Stones (1965)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cJohnny B Goode\u201d by Chuck Berry (1958)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSmells Like Teen Spirit\u201d by Nirvana (1991) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<hr \/>\n<h4><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Eric_Claptons_greatest_guitar_solo\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is Eric Clapton\u2019s greatest guitar solo?\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While Eric Clapton hasn\u2019t made the main list of our greatest guitar solos of all time, he\u2019s delivered plenty to get your teeth into over the years, and there\u2019s no doubt he stands as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His solo in \u201cLayla\u201d by Derek &amp; the Dominoes (1970) shows this, where Clapton delivers a series of sharp, cutting solos that\u2019ll be cemented in rock history for years to come.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_text admin_label=&#8221;Final thoughts&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; background_size=&#8221;initial&#8221; background_position=&#8221;top_left&#8221; background_repeat=&#8221;repeat&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;20px||||false|false&#8221; border_width_top=&#8221;2px&#8221; border_color_top=&#8221;#f08000&#8243; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;]<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_thoughts\"><\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">Final thoughts <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Here we are, 29 solos later, having witnessed the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">greatest guitar solos of all time<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. We\u2019ve covered everything from classic rock, indie, and blues to country, alt rock, and metal \u2013 there really is a solo for every type of guitarist. <\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Hopefully, you\u2019ll go away and give most of these a listen; you won\u2019t regret it. If you\u2019re feeling extra adventurous, you can even try your hand at learning some of these. \u201cCome as You Are\u201d by Nirvana is a great place to start. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=&#8221;1_2,1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/guitar.html&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;SHOP GUITARS&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=&#8221;1_2&#8243; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][et_pb_button button_url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/category\/guitars-bass\/guitar-guides\/&#8221; url_new_window=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text=&#8221;READ MORE GUITAR GUIDES&#8221; button_alignment=&#8221;center&#8221; admin_label=&#8221;NEW CTA Button&#8221; _builder_version=&#8221;4.17.4&#8243; _module_preset=&#8221;default&#8221; custom_button=&#8221;on&#8221; button_text_size=&#8221;14px&#8221; button_text_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; button_bg_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_border_width=&#8221;0px&#8221; button_border_color=&#8221;#0e95cf&#8221; button_font=&#8221;Arial|700|||||||&#8221; button_icon=&#8221;&#x35;||divi||400&#8243; button_icon_color=&#8221;#FFFFFF&#8221; custom_margin=&#8221;||||false|false&#8221; custom_padding=&#8221;10px|30px||30px|false|false&#8221; box_shadow_style=&#8221;preset6&#8243; box_shadow_blur=&#8221;2px&#8221; global_colors_info=&#8221;{}&#8221;][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>In this article, I\u2019ll explore the greatest guitar solos of all time, covering everything from those heard in classic rock anthems like Lynyrd Skynyrd\u2019s \u201cFree Bird\u201d to the modern wizardry of artists like Polyphia.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":63,"featured_media":45268,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"<p><span style=\"color: #999999;\">Featured image: Creative Commons License by <\/span><a id=\"yui_3_16_0_1_1746194733734_2318\" class=\"owner-name truncate\" title=\"Go to Xavier Badosa\u2019s photostream\" href=\"https:\/\/www.flickr.com\/photos\/badosa\/9488688374\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"author noopener\" data-track=\"attributionNameClick\">Xavier Badosa<\/a><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Deciding on the greatest <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/guitar.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">guitar<\/a><\/strong> solo of all time is a topic fuelled by intense debate and divided opinion. Still, most guitarists can agree on the basic fact that guitar solos make up some of the most memorable music moments we\u2019ve ever witnessed. I\u2019d even go as far as to say a solid guitar solo is enough to elevate certain songs to \"favourite\" status. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In this article, I\u2019ll explore the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">greatest guitar solos of all time<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, covering everything from those heard in classic rock anthems like Lynyrd Skynyrd\u2019s \u201cFree Bird\u201d to the modern wizardry of artists like Polyphia. There\u2019s a solo for every type of guitarist on this list \u2013 you\u2019ll either have your top spot predictions confirmed or be invited to listen to something you might otherwise avoid\u2026 <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">In a hurry? <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re only interested in the cr\u00e8me de la cr\u00e8me of guitar solos, then the top five listed below should suffice.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ol><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cFree Bird\u201d by Lynyrd Skynyrd (Guitarist: Allen Collins) ~ 5 min mark <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\"335552541\":0,\"335559685\":720,\"335559991\":360,\"469769242\":[65533,0],\"469777803\":\"left\",\"469777804\":\"%1.\",\"469777815\":\"hybridMultilevel\"}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSultans of Swing\u201d by Dire Straits (Guitarist: Mark Knopfler) ~ 5 min mark<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\"335552541\":0,\"335559685\":720,\"335559991\":360,\"469769242\":[65533,0],\"469777803\":\"left\",\"469777804\":\"%1.\",\"469777815\":\"hybridMultilevel\"}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cHotel California\u201d by Eagles (Guitarists: Don Felder and Joe Walsh)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\"335552541\":0,\"335559685\":720,\"335559991\":360,\"469769242\":[65533,0],\"469777803\":\"left\",\"469777804\":\"%1.\",\"469777815\":\"hybridMultilevel\"}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d by Led Zeppelin (Guitarist: Jimmy Page)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li data-leveltext=\"%1.\" data-font=\"\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\"335552541\":0,\"335559685\":720,\"335559991\":360,\"469769242\":[65533,0],\"469777803\":\"left\",\"469777804\":\"%1.\",\"469777815\":\"hybridMultilevel\"}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cMr Crowley\u201d by Ozzy Osbourne (Guitarist: Randy Rhoads)\u00a0<\/span> \u00a0<span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ol><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">The greatest guitar solos of all time\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">1. \u201cFree Bird\u201d by Lynyrd Skynyrd (Guitarist: Allen Collins, 1973) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Brimming with bends that don\u2019t stop coming, Allen Collins delivered the greatest guitar solo of all time on Lynyrd Skynyrd\u2019s \u201cFree Bird.\u201d His solo drastically lifts the tempo of the song, cementing the transition from the slower, more melancholic side of the track to the full-steam-ahead guitar destruction that you witness in the second half.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Aside from the fact that this solo absolutely shreds, it also highlights the power of guitar solos when it comes to composition, moving the track from one mood into another, leading the charge with a solo that stretches just over the four-minute mark. Another nice little thing about Collins\u2019 playing is that he often made use of <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Gibson\/Designer\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Gibson Designer<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> models such as the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Gibson\/Designer?page=1&filters%5b381%5d=814\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Firebird<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, bringing the brand's unconventional shapes to stardom. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">2. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cSultans of Swing\u201d by Dire Straits (Guitarist: Mark Knopfler, 1978)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It\u2019s no surprise that one of the greatest guitarists of all time has delivered so many great solos over the span of his career. In \u201cSultans of Swing\u201d, Mark Knopfler graces our ears with two awesome solos, alongside tonnes of tasty licks. The first solo is a little more laid back, while the second offers a dramatic rounding off, making full use of Knopfler\u2019s iconic fingerpicking technique and arpeggios. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Why is this one of the greatest solos of all time? Because it shows that solos don\u2019t have to be overly flashy. \u201cSultans of Swing\u201d is the case in point, using solos that roll off the phrases and chords used in the song all the way through - even the latter solo matches the vibe of the song without detracting too much from the overall feel. With his fingerpicking, Knopfler can make solos to meet the precise demands of the song.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">3. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cHotel California\u201d by Eagles (Guitarists: Don Felder and Joe Walsh, 1977)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Two wings of the Eagles, Don Felder and Joe Walsh, come together to create a classic rock extravaganza with their joint guitar work on \u201cHotel California.\u201d Lasting just over two minutes, this solo is an exhibition of why your band needs more guitarists, it\u2019s the epitome of good old-school American rock. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you want to hear two guitarists talk to each other with nothing but their playing, book into Hotel California. Felder and Walsh begin by taking turns on lead before uniting in a stunning harmonised section that finishes the song. Letting two guitarists share the glory of such an epic guitar solo only enhances the greatness of this guitar solo \u2013 there\u2019s a reason why this is one that every guitarist has tried to master. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/09839DpTctU?si=ZrOLILo5WCeGGZf4\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">4. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d by Led Zeppelin (Guitarist: Jimmy Page, 1971)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Standing as one of the greatest songs of all time, let alone one of the greatest solos, \u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d is often cited as the most played guitar song in music shops around the world, and for good reason. In the production of the track, Jimmy Page made use of three guitars, blending delicate fingerpicked parts with harder rock strumming, culminating in the legendary solo heard just over halfway through the song.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The live performance demands of the song meant that Page picked up his legendary Gibson EDS-1275 double-neck. This guitar rose to the challenge, leading to one of the greatest solos of all time. Covering the whole of <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">two <\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">necks, shifting speeds, bending, and hammering on - no technique was safe from Page\u2019s dominance with this solo.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">For its sheer skill and making the double-neck the icon that it is, the \u201cStairway\u201d solo belongs among the top five solos of all time. It\u2019s relentless, roaring, and world-renowned. Gear4Music\u2019s <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Brooklyn-Double-Neck-Guitar-by-Gear4music\/1SUM\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Brooklyn Double Neck Guitar<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">is a great way to give \u201cStairway to Heaven\u201d a whirl on your own if you dare.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a05. <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u00a0<\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cMr Crowley\u201d by Ozzy Osbourne (Guitarist: Randy Rhoads, 1980)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">One of the original metal shred-masters, Randy Rhoads delivers a bone-crushing solo on Ozzy Osbourne\u2019s \u201cMr Crowley,\u201d spanning the whole expanse of the neck with unbelievable speed and precision. This solo has inspired countless metalheads, using every shredding technique under the sun, from trills and arpeggios to dynamic sweep picking and bends that push the limits of what a guitar can do. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The \u2018Prince of Darkness\u2019 would expect nothing but the best guitarist to accompany him on his solo venture, hence why Randy Rhoads was the shredder he chose. Infusing classical influences with pure metal power, Rhoads\u2019 guitar work on Mr Crowley absolutely rips.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">6. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cMinor Swing\u201d by Django Reinhardt (Guitarist: Django Reinhardt, 1937)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Who would\u2019ve thought an acoustic guitar would feature on the list of greatest guitar solos of all time? Well, this one has earned its place. The biggest name in Gypsy jazz, Django Reinhardt\u2019s playing on \u201cMinor Swing\u201d exercises immense speed, crazy runs, and some super interesting use of chromaticism. Oh, and that\u2019s all while suffering an impairment to his left hand, meaning he could only fret with two fingers!<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Reinhardt\u2019s solo here is one of the greatest of all time because it exemplifies a whole genre \u2013 when people think of gypsy jazz, it\u2019s Reinhardt and songs like \u201cMinor Swing\u201d that come to mind. If a solo can define a whole genre, it belongs on this list. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/uTlo809EIlo?si=WuiZuZARzfUaAZt9\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">7. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cNothing Else Matters\u201d by Metallica (Guitarist: James Hetfield, 1991)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Proof that you don\u2019t need to play insanely fast to make one of the greatest guitar solos of all time, James Hetfield unleashes a melancholic masterpiece in the E minor pentatonic scale. While it\u2019s trendy to disavow pentatonic scales these days, the solo form \u201cNothing Else Matters\u201d will forever lay claim to nailing it in the right way.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It might come as a surprise that Metallica\u2019s lead guitarist, Kirk Hammett, does not play on the recording. These days, he plays the solo live, but at the time of recording, it made more sense for Hetfield to play it since he wrote every guitar part.<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">You can get your hands on Metallica signature models like the<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Epiphone-Kirk-Hammett-1979-Flying-V-Ebony\/678N\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Epiphone Kirk Hammett 1979 Flying V<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">or the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/ESP-LTD-James-Hetfield-Snakebyte-Satin-Black-Ex-Demo\/71M1\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">ESP LTD James Hetfield Snakebyte<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">if you want to try and let rip like Metallica.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">8. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cSamba Pa Ti\u201d by Santana (Guitarist: Carlos Santana, 1970)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Santana\u2019s solo in \u201cSamba Pa Ti\u201d is one long, reflectively mellow piece, and it\u2019s one he attributes to be a clear depiction of his playing style. Fusing blues, rock, and Latin American influences, Santana starts with smooth, slow-tempo bends. Before you know it, \u201cSamba Pa Ti\u201d is in full swing as the playing picks up pace with faster hammer-ons and pull-offs, along with swift runs up the neck. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This one takes the eighth spot because of the beautiful combo of influences, bringing Latin American musical themes to a wider audience through the medium of blues - the 1974 international release of the song was actually the first of Santana\u2019s singles to chart in the UK. It goes to show that a great guitar solo portrays the passion and identity of the artist.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">9. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d by Guns N\u2019 Roses (Guitarist: Slash, 1987) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A true classic, and yet another song played in countless music shops around the world, the solo in \u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d is a real screamer. Slash builds this one up slowly with a few drawn-out notes, making that Les Paul sing. The use of a wah pedal gives the solo its characteristic expression, adding to the vocal quality of the guitar. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re looking to recreate Slash\u2019s iconic \u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d solo, the <\/span>\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Dunlop-SW95-CryBaby-Slash-Signature-Wah-Pedal\/DJN\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dunlop SW95 CryBaby Slash Signature Wah Pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">does the trick. Pair that with the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Gibson-Slash-Victoria-Les-Paul-Gold-Top\/3HC5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Gibson Slash Victoria Les Paul, Gold Top<\/span><\/b><\/a>, <span data-contrast=\"auto\">and you\u2019ll start to look like Slash. It\u2019s one of the greatest solos of all time because of its pure singing tone, making it a flawless hard rock guitar solo.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/1w7OgIMMRc4?si=QRv7XECa8-ckrKlh\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">10. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cBohemian Rhapsody\u201d by Queen (Guitarist: Brian May, 1975)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">With the homemade sound of Brian May\u2019s unique \u201cRed Special\u201d guitar powered through Vox AC30, one of the greatest solos of the twentieth century was born. \u201cBohemian Rhapsody\u2019s\u201d solo is one that you can sing along to, and it\u2019s meant to be.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The song captures the ethos of Queen - theatrical underpinnings with a huge rock kick, blending Freddie's powerful vocals with delicate piano playing, only to be topped off with May\u2019s screaming solo. This one rounds off our top 10, proving that, if done properly, a guitar solo can work with any composition \u2013 even if it\u2019s one with a more theatrical twist. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">11. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cBat Country\u201d by Avenged Sevenfold (Guitarist: Synyster Gates, 2005)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Giving metalheads a taste of that sweet, sweet legato, Synyster Gates absolutely demolishes the solo in \u201cBat Country.\u201d Brimming with vibrato, the occasional squeal, and a bit of tapping here and there, this solo is the pinnacle of heavy metal guitar. With his dizzying solo, varied tempo and combined techniques, Gates matches the vibe of \u201cBat Country\u201d to perfection. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This solo sits near the top of the list as it demos a range of shredding techniques \u2013 if you\u2019re an aspiring metalhead, you should give this one a listen to gain a few of the basics. Of course, it also absolutely rips, and Gates shows how fun metal can be when you get it on lock. <\/span>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Schecter-Synyster-Standard-White\/3B84\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Gates Standard<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is a sure-fire way of getting that shredding feel, and so is the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Schecter-Synyster-Gates-Custom-6-TR-S-Headless-SBK\/6TAU\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Schecter Synyster Gates Custom 6 TR S Headless<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, only with a twist.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">12. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cThrough the Fire and Flames\u201d by DragonForce (Guitarists: Herman Li and Sam Totman, 2005)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The epitome of speed in a guitar solo, Herman Li and Sam Totman destroy what\u2019s credited as one of the fastest guitar parts. Even non-guitarists recognise this solo as one of immense speed and precision. Making use of hammer-ons, fast alternate-picking and sweeping arpeggios, the duo provides an impeccable power metal performance. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cThrough the Fire and the Flames\u201d must be up there as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time, thanks to its unflinching speed and widespread recognition, even among people who aren\u2019t considered cult-fans. Li and Totman make Guitar Hero look like a doddle with this masterpiece. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/0jgrCKhxE1s?si=8HBTJpiwyXFZh-_N\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">13. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cPlaying GOD\u201d by Polyphia (Guitarist: Tim Henson, 2022)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Tim Henson proves that the greatest guitar solos aren\u2019t stuck in the past. With his innovative picking style, heavy use of harmonics and swift phrasing, he boasts a modern arsenal of techniques that make for a super unique playing style. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cPlaying GOD\u201d incorporates classical fingerpicked styles. It <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">makes the cut as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time because of the effortless high level of technicality used, seen by many as an almost impossible style to play if you\u2019re not well-versed in certain techniques. If you\u2019re a lefty looking for Tim Henson\u2019s tone, his <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Ibanez-TOD10NL-Tim-Henson-Signature-Electro-Nylon-Left-Handed-Black\/6A9L\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">signature Ibanez TOD10NL<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is the guitar for you.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">14. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cMaggot Brain\u201d by Funkadelic (Guitarist: Eddie Hazel, 1971) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">A destructive 10-minute solo recorded in one take \u2013 Eddie Hazel\u2019s playing on the album title track \u201cMaggot Brain\u201d is a mesmerising piece. Covering the E-minor pentatonic scale, the solo is heavily inspired by Jimi Hendrix, using intense vibrato to make his Strat swell, sing, and squeal. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While often overlooked, Hazel has been lauded by Flea, RHCP\u2019s bassist, to be on a par with Hendrix, although both have their own unique quirks. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cMaggot brain\u201d is one of the most captivating and awe inspiring solos of all time, every time you listen you\u2019ll pick up on little notes or phrases that you missed the time before, making it a timeless masterpiece that certainly needs more attention \u2013 not least to pay homage to Hazel\u2019s great guitar playing.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">15. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cThe Thrill Is Gone\u201d by B.B. King (Guitarist: B.B. King, 1969)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">No one can make single notes sound quite as good as B.B. King can. With his vibrato and string bending, every note is brought to life. \u201cThe Thrill Is Gone\u201d is a testament to this. You can tell that B.B. King has an absolute mastery over the guitar, delivering sweeping blues tones with ease. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Using his unique semi-hollow guitar design with the f-holes removed, B.B. King achieves even more clarity, reducing the feedback often experienced with semi-hollow guitars. If you want to try your own hand at playing like the King of Blues, try out the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Epiphone-BB-King-Lucille-Ebony\/42BI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Epiphone Lucille<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> \u2013 a beautiful blues machine.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/4fk2prKnYnI?si=Gnldod8AigvDLlAH\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">16. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cRock Bottom\u201d by UFO (Guitarist: Michael Schenker, 1974)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If a solo is good enough to rank as Kirk Hammett\u2019s number one solo, I <em>had <\/em>to include it on our list. Revolving around the Dorian scale, Michael Schenker creates an encompassing solo that builds slowly into a maniacal masterpiece that\u2019s full of fast-paced hammer-ons and pull-offs, only to be ended with a dizzying vibrato bend on the 15<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> fret.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">What makes this solo even more awesome is that Schenker wrote it when he was 17\u2026 Writing such beastly solos at such a young age is a testament to Schenker\u2019s skill as a great guitar player, earning \u201cRock Bottom\u201d a place as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">17. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cLittle Wing\u201d by The Jimi Hendrix Experience (Guitarist: Jimi Hendrix, 1967)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By far one of the most melodic solos ever written \u2013 Jimi Hendrix\u2019s solo on \u201cLittle Wing\u201d is the definition of making your guitar sing. From the introductory triple harmonics on the 12<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> fret to the full bends on the 15<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, he turns his Strat into a vocal machine. Hendrix performs this solo as an outro, fading the song out with a blaze of stunning Strat power.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Every guitarist wants to achieve Hendrix\u2019s legendary tone at least once. You can use the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Fender-Jimi-Hendrix-Stratocaster-Olympic-White\/1DW9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Fender Jimi Hendrix Strat<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">, hook it up to a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/PRS-HDRX-20-Hendrix-Circuit-Head-Black-Tolex\/5O16\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">PRS HDRX 20 \u201cHendrix\u201d Circuit head<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and run your signal through a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Dunlop-Fuzz-Face-Mini-Hendrix-Turquoise-FFM3\/QZ7\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dunlop Fuzz Face Mini Hendrix<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">for those ferocious, fuzz-laden rock tones. The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Dunlop-JH01-Hendrix-Woodstock-Guitar-Strap\/6H9E\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Dunlop JH01 Hendrix Woodstock Guitar Strap<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">also makes for a fitting finishing touch if you\u2019re going for the full-Hendrix experience.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p>For a further insight into Hendrix's gear and how you can recreate his rig for yourself, check out our rundown of <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/blog\/jimi-hendrix-guitars\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jimi Hendrix's setup<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">18. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cCome as You Are\u201d by Nirvana (Guitarist: Kurt Cobain, 1992)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If I had to recommend a solo to any beginner guitarist, it\u2019d be Kurt Cobain\u2019s ripping solo in \u201cCome as You Are.\u201d Cobain shows that you can conjure something great with just a few notes, moving from the sixth fret to the ninth and then sliding up to the eleventh. Repeat that three times before bending on the eleventh and moving back down the fretboard in reverse order. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The \u201cCome as You Are\u201d solo has a sharp biting tone that\u2019s associated with many of Cobain\u2019s lead lines, thanks in no small part to his use of Fender <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Fender.html?page=1&filters%5b251%5d=2361\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Jags<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Fender.html?page=1&filters%5b251%5d=2363\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Mustangs<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">.<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> It\u2019s the epitome of grunge - minimising technicality while maximising a messy tone, making use of distortion pedals like the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Boss-DS-1-Distortion-Pedal\/7OT\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Boss DS-1<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Electro-Harmonix-Small-Clone-Analog-Chorus\/8WO\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">the Small Clone Chorus pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. This solo is one of the greatest because it puts tone over technicality.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/vabnZ9-ex7o?si=Hm6djOH6j0l5Jj4l\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">19. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cHey\u201d by Pixies (Guitarist: Joey Santiago, 1989)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Marrying the 17<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> fret on the G string with the 15<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">th<\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> fret of the B string in a series of string bent double stops composes the first part of the solo in \u201cHey,\" resulting in a guitar part that sounds like it\u2019s letting out a series of screams. It's then followed by some smooth phrases at the lower end of the neck. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Joey Santiago\u2019s solo acts as his voice, as if he\u2019s talking to us with his guitar. It\u2019s this deep level of expression, combining drawn-out howls with slick licks, that makes \u201cHey\u2019s\u201d solo so awesome, standing not only as one of the greatest indie solos of all time, but one of the greatest solos of all time. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">20. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cTime\u201d by Pink Floyd (Guitarist: David Gilmour, 1973)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">When you think of Pink Floyd, especially David Gilmour\u2019s playing, you think of huge <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar_Amps\/Marshall.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Marshall<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> stacks, fat solos, and sound waves so powerful that you can feel them in your bones. While any of Gilmour\u2019s solos could make the cut as all-time greats, it\u2019s \u201cTime\u201d that takes the cake for me. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The solo perfectly captures the longing, nostalgia, and reminiscent vibe of the song, with drawn-out notes ringing just long enough for you to dwell on the passage of time and reflect on the lyrics. There\u2019s one thing for sure: a banger like this is sure to last more than a dozen lifetimes. The thick, edge-of-breakup tone is about as perfect as it can get \u2013 this solo sets the bar for British crunch. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">21. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cParanoid Android\u201d by Radiohead (Guitarist: Jonny Greenwood, 1997)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Jonny Greenwood is one of the most innovative guitarists of our generation, and his solo in \u201cParanoid Android\u201d shows off his unprecedented mastery of the instrument. He manipulates it to get the exact sound he wants, fitting Radiohead\u2019s diverse range of sound.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">His high-attack, swiftly-picked solo with a disjunct melody matches the frenzied state of \u201cParanoid Android.\" We\u2019ve discussed guitars singing and screaming plenty of times in this article, but discombobulating, breaking down and losing control? Greenwood\u2019s solo broke new ground for guitar, cementing Radiohead as a musical force in a world of their own. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/NzPtr_n-m8A?si=RCFa1sn40aBO2Rl0\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">22. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cKiss\u201d by Prince and The Revolution (Guitarist: Prince, 1986) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Prince\u2019s solo in \u201cKiss\u201d proves that expression can come from tight control just as much as complexity. In a track built on sharp funk minimalism, he delivers a solo that\u2019s raw, wiry, and unpolished. It slices through the mix with a dry, biting tone that captures that snappy funk feel. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">So far, we\u2019ve seen soaring leads, double stops, and a tonne of string bends in the list, but there\u2019s something about Prince\u2019s solo here that\u2019s just <\/span><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">different. <\/span><\/i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">It doesn\u2019t do too much yet somehow manages to worm its way perfectly into a song that can be considered \u2018too much\u2019 or OTT. It\u2019s one of the greatest of all time, thanks to its effortless groove. It's sure to get your head bobbing. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">23. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cEruption\u201d by Eddie Van Halen (Guitarist: Eddie Van Halen, 1978)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Van Halen unleashes pure rock power with his \u201cEruption.\u201d Doing what it says on the tin, he spews out a series of intense lighting runs dictated by a unique two-handed tapping technique, tapping with his right hand and moving his left hand up the fretboard accordingly. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Sometimes all you need is a hard and fast solo \u2013 this solo is rock 'n\u2019 roll lead guitar at its finest. Any one of our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Electric_Guitars\/EVH\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">EVH<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> guitars will satisfy your urge to get on board with Van Halen\u2019s rampant playing style, with many of his <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Electric_Guitars\/EVH?page=1&filters%5b449%5d=3330\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Striped series<\/span><\/b><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> models giving you the potential to really let rip like the legend himself.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">24. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cLay It on the Line\u201d by Triumph (Guitarist: Rik Emmett, 1979)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Another classic rock screamer, \u201cLay It on the Line\u201d is a belter among old-school rock numbers. What makes the solo so impressive is Rik Emmett\u2019s effortless multitasking of vocals and guitar work, channelling pure rock energy. Full of fragrant bends, hefty power chords and fluid hammer-ons, \u201cLay It on the Line\u201d set the tone for \u201880s rock. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you want to hear a quintessential classic rock solo, \u201cLay It on the Line\u201d is the one I\u2019d recommend. While it doesn\u2019t stand out as a completely unique solo like some of the other picks on the list, it ticks all the boxes when it comes to being a retro rock \u2019n\u2019 roll banger that every guitarist should give a listen to at least once. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/nn_yRlYVnUw?si=rVxUkK9f_cX5JSOC\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">25. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cI Wanna Be Adored\u201d by The Stone Roses (Guitarist: John Squire) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Leading the charge as pioneers of the \u2019Madchester movement,\u2019 fusing different musical influences of psychedelic rock, new-wave, and post-punk in the 1980s, The Stone Roses are woven into the fabric of British music. John Squire\u2019s lead guitar features heavily on most of their tracks, adding twinkly melodic lines that gradually build into full-throttle grit. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cI Wanna Be Adored\u201d is one of the all-time classics from The Stone Roses, starting with a delicate guitar solo to set the lead motifs used throughout. Towards the end of the track, Squier pumps out a solo that feels as if the whole song has been building up to release that final explosion of expression. \u201cI Wanna Be Adored\u201d features one of the greatest solos of all time, recognised across generations. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">26. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cI Want You (She\u2019s So Heavy)\u201d (Guitarist: John Lennon, 1969) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Yep, you read that right, it was John Lennon, rather than George Harrison, who played the main solo on this track. The track's heavier, malevolent-sounding guitar parts are broken up with a buttery blues solo that rolls right off the fingertips. While the Beatles pulled off plenty of great solos in their time, \u201cI Want You (She\u2019s So Heavy)\u201d offers something original, combining laid-back licks with some heavy arpeggios to break things up. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">27. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cStart Choppin\u2019 \u201d by Dinosaur Jr (Guitarist: J Mascis, 1993)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">J Mascis is one of the greatest guitarists of our generation, combining guitar mastery with gritty vocals that avoid bells and whistles. Everything he plays sounds effortless for him. \u201cStart Choppin\u2019\u201d is brimming with catchy lead parts, only to be broken up with face-melting solos that come out of nowhere. Mascis makes the guitar scream with heavy tremolo use and full bends. The smattering of squeals only adds to this solo. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re looking to let rip like Mascis, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Squier-J-Mascis-Jazzmaster-Vintage-White\/2C0J\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Squier J Mascis Jazzmaster<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">is an offset that lets you do that at an affordable price. If you\u2019re like me and love your offsets and Dinosaur Jr, this guitar is a must-have. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><p><iframe title=\"YouTube video player\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/Z_-JapMQUPQ?si=fSS1BiG8b2BiC-Qn\" width=\"600\" height=\"315\" frameborder=\"0\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">28. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cIncinerate\u201d by Sonic Youth (Guitarist: Thurston Moore, 2006)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">In typical Sonic Youth fashion, \"Incinerate\u201d makes use of whacky open tuning. The D#-D#-A#-D#-G-G tuning, where the low E string is tuned to D#, the A string to A#, and the D string to D#, is what makes Thurston Moore\u2019s playing so unique. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The solo\u2019s tone is dirty, fast, and rugged, working its way up the neck, ending with some fast alternate picking. While it doesn\u2019t last that long, \u201cIncinerate\u201d has one of the greatest guitar solos ever. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">29. <\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">\u201cCountry Boy\u201d by Albert Lee (Guitarist: Albert Lee, 1971)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Your favourite guitarist's favourite guitarist, Albert Lee dominates the fretboard with banjo-style picking in country fashion. Hybrid or \u2018Chick\u2019n picking\u2019 - combining a guitar pick with fingerpicking, Lee delivers a fury of notes that roll right off each other. While every aspect of the guitar playing on this track is awesome, the solo stands out with Lee\u2019s signature picking method, making this one of the greatest country solos ever. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Play your own<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\"> solo<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">To try your hand at the solos in this list or even invent your own, here\u2019s some essential gear that will put you on the right track! <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"12\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\"335552541\":1,\"335559685\":720,\"335559991\":360,\"469769226\":\"Symbol\",\"469769242\":[8226],\"469777803\":\"left\",\"469777804\":\"\uf0b7\",\"469777815\":\"hybridMultilevel\"}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/MXR-M133-Micro-Amp-Pedal\/GXV\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">MXR M133 Micro Amp Pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">This gives you the boost you\u2019ll need to soar with your solos, letting those notes ring out with impact.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"12\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\"335552541\":1,\"335559685\":720,\"335559991\":360,\"469769226\":\"Symbol\",\"469769242\":[8226],\"469777803\":\"left\",\"469777804\":\"\uf0b7\",\"469777815\":\"hybridMultilevel\"}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Ibanez-TS9-Tube-Screamer\/6RI\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer:<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">For that dirty saturation that\u2019ll add a screaming quality to your solos, this pedal has everything you need.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"12\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\"335552541\":1,\"335559685\":720,\"335559991\":360,\"469769226\":\"Symbol\",\"469769242\":[8226],\"469777803\":\"left\",\"469777804\":\"\uf0b7\",\"469777815\":\"hybridMultilevel\"}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Boss-OC-5-Octave-Pedal\/3L1Y\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Boss OC-5 Octave pedal<\/span><\/b><\/a><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">: <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While not heard in your average guitar solo, adding an octave effect to your solos will add some extra depth to your playing.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><ul><li data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"12\" data-list-defn-props=\"{\"335552541\":1,\"335559685\":720,\"335559991\":360,\"469769226\":\"Symbol\",\"469769242\":[8226],\"469777803\":\"left\",\"469777804\":\"\uf0b7\",\"469777815\":\"hybridMultilevel\"}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gear4music.com\/Guitar-and-Bass\/Line-6-Helix-HX-Stomp-Multi-Effects-Pedal\/40YR\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><b><span data-contrast=\"none\">Line 6 Helix HX Stomp Multi-effects Pedal:<\/span><\/b><\/a> <span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you\u2019re looking to streamline your setup, a compact multi-fx like the Stomp will let you easily set up solo patches.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">FAQs\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><h4><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is the hardest guitar solo of all time?\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While solo difficulty will vary from player to player, some of the hardest guitar solos of all time are those that combine high speed with tough techniques, such as:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ul><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cEruption\u201d by Van Halen (Guitarist: Eddie van Halen)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cRecuerdos de la Alhambra\u201d by <\/span><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Recuerdos de la Alhambra by Francisco T\u00e1rrega (Guitarist: Francisco T\u00e1rrega)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cFives\u201d by Gutherie Govan (Guitarist: Gutherie Govan)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cThrough the Fire and the Flames\u201d by DragonForce (Guitarists: Herman Li and Sam Totman)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cJuice\u201d by Steve Vai (Guitarist: Steve Vai)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is the most iconic guitar riff of all time?\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Solos and riffs are the bread and butter of playing guitar, after covering 29 of the greatest solos, it\u2019s only right that we give honourable mention to some of the most iconic riffs \u2013 you\u2019re sure to recognise a few! <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><ul><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSweet Child O\u2019 Mine\u201d by Guns N\u2019 Roses (1989)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSmoke on the Water\u201d by Deep Purple (1972)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201c(I Can\u2019t Get No) Satisfaction\u201d by The Rolling Stones (1965)<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cJohnny B Goode\u201d by Chuck Berry (1958)\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><li><span data-contrast=\"auto\">\u201cSmells Like Teen Spirit\u201d by Nirvana (1991) <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li><\/ul><hr \/><h4><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is Eric Clapton\u2019s greatest guitar solo?\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":80,\"335559739\":40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">While Eric Clapton hasn\u2019t made the main list of our greatest guitar solos of all time, he\u2019s delivered plenty to get your teeth into over the years, and there\u2019s no doubt he stands as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. His solo in \u201cLayla\u201d by Derek & the Dominoes (1970) shows this, where Clapton delivers a series of sharp, cutting solos that\u2019ll be cemented in rock history for years to come.\u00a0<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p><hr \/><h3><span data-contrast=\"none\">Final thoughts <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{\"134245418\":true,\"134245529\":true,\"335559738\":160,\"335559739\":80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Here we are, 29 solos later, having witnessed the <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">greatest guitar solos of all time<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. We\u2019ve covered everything from classic rock, indie, and blues to country, alt rock, and metal \u2013 there really is a solo for every type of guitarist. <\/span><\/p><p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Hopefully, you\u2019ll go away and give most of these a listen; you won\u2019t regret it. If you\u2019re feeling extra adventurous, you can even try your hand at learning some of these. \u201cCome as You Are\u201d by Nirvana is a great place to start. <\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[243,105],"tags":[290,107],"class_list":["post-45249","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guitar-guides","category-guitars-bass","tag-guide","tag-guitars"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v28.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>The 29 Greatest Guitar Solos of All Time | Gear4music<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Ever wondered what the greatest guitar solos of all time are? 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