Andy Ascolese explains his favorite guitar player list.

10 - Jordan Rudess (keyboards for Dream Theater) OK. Not a guitarist. But if your playing keyboards in a heavy rock band you need to solo like a guitarist. And he does. He plays unlike any other keyboard player and any guitar player combined.

9 - Chuck Berry He started it all. He played fast and loud. And his simple blues based songs still hold up today.

8 - Richie Castellano Richie fits in wherever you need him to. If you need him to do a little funk comp or if you want a blazing solo. He can nail any style. All around scary dude.

7 - Frank Gambale WOW!!! Fast and frighting.

6 - Nigel Tuffnel (Spinal Tap) WOW!!! Fast and sloppy.

5 - Eddie Van Halen The only shredder with soul. If you take his stuff apart you'll find the most beautiful soulful licks. He just plays them fast. Really Fast.

4 - Dan Huff (Nashville Session Guitarist) When I hear Dan play, I get goose bumps. I feel the power. Do you?

3 - Trevor Rabin (Yes) When I hear Trevor play, I get goose bumps. I feel the power. Do you?

2 - Brian May Classic. Memorable. You can sing along with his solos. His playing is reminiscent of classical chamber music. Beautiful.

1 - Jimi Hendrix Perfect title, Are You Experienced? "...Let Jimi take over..." OK. Guitar player, sure. But so much more. He created a sound. He didn't just play solo's he created a sonic sound that just captured you and wouldn't let you go till he was done. Truly amazing experience.

 

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