Who is your overall favorite guitarist?


At 44 years of age, I personally feel fortunate to have lived in an era along with some of the finest guitarists who have ever lived. I have always had an overwhelming love of music. As I look back to my earlier years of music appreciation (I took formal piano training for 17 years) I remember how my instructor would suggest exposing myself to the many different styles and disciplines of music.

These were such valuable words of wisdom. Considering the fact that this suggestion, more or less, forced me to be more open to musicians other than those that played in strictly rock and roll bands.

Wow, was I surprised to find that I could be as entertained by Chet Atkins and Les Paul as I could be by Ritchie Blackmore or Carlos Santana. Just think about some of the finest from our time. Jimi Hendrix, John McLaughlin, Robin Trower, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Eric Johnson, Steve Howe, Al DiMeola, the list could seem almost endless. All such incredible musicians.

Although it's very hard to pick one person or style in particular, let's remember the key words, "overall favorite".
I would probably have to say that my overall favorite would have to be Steve Morse (from Dixie Dregs fame).

Who is your favorite?
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I admire originality. I like artists who have distinct styles and who can be identified from the first note with your eyes closed to truly test the fidelity of your system.Technical prowess cannot replace the heart and soul and personal touch in music. That being said:
Steve Morse
Carlos
Clapton
Stevie Ray
Michael Hedges
Duanne Allman
Dickey Betts
Hendrix
the Edge
Billy Duffy
Billy Duffy? There's an off-the-wall choice. But hey, I'm listening to him right now. "Everyday Nirvana. . ."
Curbach, You and I must be kindred spirits because "Love" is their best album. Sanctuary, Rain and the title track certainly get your juices flowing if you like electric rock and roll.
some who seem to be missing from the discussion

Reverend Billy G of ZZ Top
Robin Trower
Robben Ford (check out the band Jing Chi)
Scott Henderson (especially Vital Tech Tones w/ Victor Wooten and Steve Smith)
Warren Haynes of Govt Mule
John McLaughlin
Jerry Garcia, Mark Knofler, Wes Montgomery, Barnie Kessel, B.B. King, Ry Cooder, Django, Chet Atkins, Michael Hedges and Jimmy Hendix.