Hey there fellow music lovers! In this blog post, we’ll dive into the best guitar solos of all time. If you’re anything like me, you know there’s nothing quite like the thrill of hearing an amazing guitar solo.
From epic power ballads to blistering rock anthems, guitar solos have been a defining feature of popular music for decades. But with so many iconic solos out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together this list of the best guitar solos of all time. So grab your air guitar and get ready to rock out!
Best Guitar Solos of All Time
1. Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin (Jimmy Page)
You know that feeling when you hear a guitar solo that just takes your breath away? Well, that’s exactly what Jimmy Page delivers in the legendary “Stairway to Heaven” solo. It’s a masterpiece of melodic phrasing, dynamics, and emotion, building from a gentle, mournful intro to a virtuosic explosion of notes and bends.
Page’s use of dynamics is particularly impressive, as he transitions seamlessly from delicate fingerpicking to thunderous power chords and back again. And then there’s that iconic descending riff, which is instantly recognizable and never fails to send shivers down the spine. The solo is a perfect example of Page’s incredible skill as a guitarist and his ability to craft solos that are both technically impressive and deeply moving. It’s no wonder that this solo has become one of the most beloved and imitated in rock history.
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2. Comfortably Numb – Pink Floyd (David Gilmour)
“Comfortably Numb” by Pink Floyd is widely regarded as one of the best guitar solos of all time. The solo was played by David Gilmour and features a slow, melodic buildup before exploding into a soaring, emotive climax.
Gilmour’s use of bending and vibrato techniques creates a sense of tension and release throughout the solo, perfectly complementing the song’s themes of isolation and detachment. The solo is characterized by its haunting beauty and raw emotional power, and remains a favorite among guitarists and music fans alike.
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3. November Rain – Guns N’ Roses (Slash)
The guitar solo in “November Rain” by Guns N’ Roses is considered one of the most iconic and memorable solos in rock music. The solo was performed by lead guitarist Slash, and it comes towards the end of the song, after a long, emotional piano interlude.
The solo itself is melodic and soaring, with Slash playing a combination of fast runs, bends, and sustained notes that perfectly capture the song’s sense of yearning and melancholy. The solo builds to a climax before resolving with a final flourish, leaving the listener with a sense of catharsis and emotional release. Overall, the guitar solo in “November Rain” is a true masterpiece of rock guitar playing, and it remains a favorite among fans and guitar enthusiasts to this day.
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4. Free Bird – Lynyrd Skynyrd (Allen Collins and Gary Rossington)
The guitar solo in “Free Bird” by Lynyrd Skynyrd, performed by guitarists Allen Collins and Gary Rossington, is one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock history. The solo is known for its soaring, melodic lines, fiery runs, and emotive bends, all of which build to a dramatic climax that perfectly complements the song’s lyrics.
The solo begins with a slow, mournful melody that gradually picks up speed and intensity, showcasing the virtuosic playing of both guitarists. As the solo reaches its climax, the two guitarists engage in a thrilling call-and-response exchange, trading off lightning-fast licks and culminating in a blazing final run that leaves the listener breathless. The “Free Bird” guitar solo is a masterclass in rock guitar playing, and a testament to the enduring power of classic rock.
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5. Eruption – Van Halen (Eddie Van Halen)
“Eruption” is an instrumental track and guitar solo that was recorded by Eddie Van Halen for the band Van Halen’s 1978 self-titled debut album. The solo is known for its technical proficiency and innovative use of tapping, a technique that involves using both hands to play notes on the fretboard.
The solo begins with a fast arpeggio section before transitioning into a series of blazingly fast runs and tapped notes. The solo also features a brief section where Van Halen uses his guitar’s tremolo bar to create a rapid vibrato effect. “Eruption” has been widely acclaimed as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time and has inspired countless guitarists in the years since its release.
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6. Hotel California – The Eagles (Don Felder and Joe Walsh)
The guitar solo in “Hotel California” by The Eagles is considered one of the most iconic solos in rock history. The song features two guitar solos, both played by Don Felder and Joe Walsh, with each solo having its own distinct character.
The first solo is melodic and emotional, with a soaring quality that perfectly captures the wistful mood of the song. The second solo is more energetic and complex, featuring rapid-fire licks and virtuosic playing that showcases the incredible skill of both guitarists. The solos in “Hotel California” perfectly complement the song’s haunting lyrics and moody atmosphere, making it one of the most memorable guitar moments in rock history.
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7. All Along the Watchtower – Jimi Hendrix
Jimi Hendrix’s guitar solo in “All Along the Watchtower” is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time. The solo starts with a simple, bluesy lick that gradually builds in intensity and complexity, incorporating bends, vibrato, and rapid-fire note runs.
Hendrix’s use of feedback and distortion adds a raw, psychedelic edge to the solo, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that perfectly complements the song’s apocalyptic lyrics. The solo culminates in a series of soaring, high-pitched notes that evoke a sense of transcendence and liberation. Hendrix’s guitar solo in “All Along the Watchtower” showcases his incredible technical skill, artistic vision, and unique style, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire and amaze guitarists and music lovers around the world.
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8. Sultans of Swing – Dire Straits (Mark Knopfler)
“Sultans of Swing” by Dire Straits features one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock music. The solo, which was played by the band’s frontman and lead guitarist Mark Knopfler, showcases his unique fingerstyle technique and incorporates elements of blues, jazz, and country music.
The solo begins with a slow and melodic section, gradually building in intensity and speed as it progresses. Knopfler’s use of dynamics and subtle note bending add to the emotional impact of the solo, which reaches a climactic peak before transitioning back into the song’s main melody. The guitar solo in “Sultans of Swing” is a masterful display of Knopfler’s virtuosity and musicality, and has earned its place as one of the most memorable and beloved solos in rock history.
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9. Crossroads – Cream (Eric Clapton)
The guitar solo in “Crossroads” by Cream is considered one of the most iconic and influential solos in the history of rock music. The song, which was originally written by blues musician Robert Johnson, was famously covered by Eric Clapton’s band Cream in 1968.
The solo, which comes towards the end of the song, features Clapton’s signature bluesy guitar licks and lightning-fast fingerwork. It’s a masterclass in guitar playing, with Clapton seamlessly weaving together different techniques and styles to create a truly unforgettable sound. The solo has been studied and emulated by countless guitarists over the years, and it remains a testament to Clapton’s skill and musical genius.
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10. While My Guitar Gently Weeps – The Beatles (George Harrison)
The guitar solo in “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” is widely regarded as one of the best of all time, and is notable for its emotional depth and technical brilliance.
The solo was performed by George Harrison, who also wrote the song, and features a combination of melodic arpeggios, bluesy bends, and sweeping vibrato. The solo builds in intensity throughout, reaching a climactic peak before transitioning back into the song’s final chorus. Many guitarists have cited this solo as a major influence on their playing, and it continues to inspire new generations of musicians to this day.
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11. Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses (Slash)
The guitar solo in “Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses, performed by lead guitarist Slash, is one of the most recognizable and beloved solos in rock music history. The solo comes in towards the end of the song, after a build-up of tension, and begins with a series of fast, melodic runs up and down the neck of the guitar.
Slash then transitions into a slower, more soulful section, showcasing his ability to play with emotion and feeling. The solo builds to a climax with a series of dramatic bends and wails, before settling into a quieter, more contemplative outro. Throughout the solo, Slash displays his virtuosity and command of the instrument, using a combination of speed, technique, and expression to create a truly unforgettable performance.
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12. Texas Flood – Stevie Ray Vaughan
“Texas Flood” by Stevie Ray Vaughan features a blistering guitar solo that is considered one of the greatest of all time. The solo begins with a slow, soulful intro that builds into a fiery display of speed, technique, and emotion.
Vaughan’s use of bends, vibrato, and rapid-fire runs creates a sense of tension and release, culminating in a thrilling climax that leaves listeners wanting more. The solo showcases Vaughan’s masterful command of the blues and his ability to make his guitar sing with raw emotion. The solo is a testament to Vaughan’s status as one of the best guitarists in music history.
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13. Little Wing – Jimi Hendrix
If you’re a fan of guitar solos, chances are you’ve heard of Jimi Hendrix’s “Little Wing”. The song is a masterclass in guitar playing, and the solo is a standout moment that showcases Hendrix’s incredible skill and creativity.
The solo begins with a haunting, melodic theme that builds in intensity as Hendrix adds more layers of sound with his guitar. He uses a range of techniques, including slides, bends, and vibrato, to create a fluid, expressive sound that seems to soar effortlessly. The solo is a perfect example of Hendrix’s ability to blend technical prowess with raw emotion, and it’s one of the most iconic guitar solos of all time. Whether you’re a diehard Hendrix fan or just a lover of great guitar music, “Little Wing” is a must-listen.
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14. Cliffs of Dover – Eric Johnson
The guitar solo in “Cliffs of Dover” by Eric Johnson is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time. The solo comes in towards the middle of the song and features Johnson’s signature style of intricate and melodic playing.
Starting with a clean tone and building gradually in intensity, the solo showcases Johnson’s incredible technical skill and musicality. He employs a variety of techniques such as alternate picking, sweeping, and tapping to create a stunning display of virtuosity, while still maintaining a strong sense of melody and harmony.
One of the most iconic moments in the solo is the soaring arpeggio run towards the end, which leads into the song’s final chorus. This section has become synonymous with the song and is often cited as a perfect example of Johnson’s mastery of the guitar.
The guitar solo in “Cliffs of Dover” is a true masterpiece of guitar playing, demonstrating both incredible technical proficiency and a deep sense of musicality. It’s a testament to Johnson’s talent as a musician and has rightfully earned its place among the best guitar solos of all time.
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15. Black Star – Yngwie Malmsteen
The guitar solo in “Black Star” by Yngwie Malmsteen is an iconic example of his virtuosic neoclassical style. The solo begins with a fast arpeggio section played on the high strings, showcasing Malmsteen’s lightning-fast alternate picking technique.
He then moves into a series of melodic runs and licks that are heavily influenced by classical music, featuring wide vibrato, sweeping arpeggios, and lightning-fast scalar runs. Malmsteen’s use of the harmonic minor scale gives the solo a distinctive, exotic flavor that sets it apart from other guitar solos of the time. The solo builds to a climax with a blazing ascending run that leads into the final chorus of the song. The guitar solo in “Black Star” is a breathtaking display of technical proficiency and melodic invention that has inspired countless guitarists over the years.
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16. Floods – Pantera (Dimebag Darrell)
The guitar solo in “Floods” is widely regarded as one of Dimebag Darrell’s most memorable and emotionally powerful performances. It begins with a haunting, melodic section that gradually builds in intensity, showcasing Darrell’s virtuosic playing and impeccable sense of timing.
From there, the solo explodes into a flurry of fast-paced, aggressive riffs and lightning-fast runs, showcasing Darrell’s signature “shredding” style. Throughout the solo, Darrell expertly balances technical precision with raw emotion, blending intricate licks and harmonies with soulful bends and vibrato. The solo reaches its climax with a searing, sustained note that gradually fades into a mournful, atmospheric outro, leaving listeners with a sense of both exhilaration and sadness. The guitar solo in “Floods” is a testament to Darrell’s unparalleled talent and musical vision, and it remains a beloved and influential piece of guitar music to this day.
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17. Highway Star – Deep Purple (Ritchie Blackmore)
The guitar solo in “Highway Star” by Deep Purple is a legendary moment in rock music history. It begins with a fast-paced and intricate riff, showcasing Ritchie Blackmore’s technical skill and mastery of the instrument. From there, the solo builds in intensity, featuring lightning-fast runs and blistering arpeggios.
Blackmore’s use of bends, vibrato, and other techniques add depth and emotion to the solo, creating a sense of tension and release. The solo culminates in a jaw-dropping series of descending runs that are both awe-inspiring and incredibly satisfying to listen to. The guitar solo in “Highway Star” is a testament to Blackmore’s virtuosity and his ability to craft a solo that is both technically impressive and musically engaging.
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18. Crazy Train – Ozzy Osbourne (Randy Rhoads)
The guitar solo in “Crazy Train” is a high-energy and technically impressive display of Rhoads’ guitar skills. The solo starts off with a fast and intricate series of arpeggios and scales, showcasing Rhoads’ impeccable technique and precision.
The solo then moves into a soaring melodic section, with Rhoads playing a series of memorable and emotive phrases that perfectly capture the song’s powerful and anthemic spirit. The solo builds to a climactic finish with Rhoads unleashing a flurry of lightning-fast runs and dazzling licks, leaving the listener breathless and wanting more. The guitar solo in “Crazy Train” is a testament to Rhoads’ exceptional talent and creativity, and it remains one of the most iconic and beloved guitar solos in rock history.
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19. Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen (Brian May)
The guitar solo in “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen is a highly memorable and iconic part of the song. It starts with a short intro section featuring a fast and intricate arpeggio riff, before launching into a series of soaring melodic lines and technical runs that build in intensity and complexity.
The solo reaches a climax with a rapid-fire series of descending scales and arpeggios that lead into the final chorus of the song. Throughout the solo, Brian May showcases his incredible technical proficiency and musicality, combining impressive speed and precision with a keen sense of melody and phrasing to create a truly unforgettable guitar performance.
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20. Bold as Love – Jimi Hendrix
“Bold as Love” is a song by Jimi Hendrix that features a memorable guitar solo. The solo comes in towards the end of the song, and lasts for around 40 seconds. It begins with a slow, melodic phrase that gradually builds in intensity and complexity.
Hendrix uses a variety of techniques, including bends, vibrato, and fast runs up and down the fretboard, to create a rich and dynamic sound. The solo is notable for its emotive quality, with Hendrix’s playing conveying a range of moods and emotions, from sadness and introspection to joy and excitement. The guitar solo in “Bold as Love” is a masterful example of Hendrix’s virtuosity and musicality, and is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitar solos of all time.
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Conclusion
Well, there you have it folks – a rundown of some of the best guitar solos ever recorded. Whether you prefer classic rock, metal, blues, or something in between, there’s no denying the power of a killer guitar solo.
These solos have inspired countless musicians and music lovers alike, and they continue to captivate audiences to this day. So the next time you hear that familiar riff or soaring melody, take a moment to appreciate the sheer talent and creativity that went into crafting these incredible solos. And keep on rockin’!
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