Posted on 04/02/2025 7:32:35 PM PDT by DoodleBob
In a recent poll by UK-based guitar retailer guitarguitar, Taylor Swift has surprisingly been ranked as the 8th best guitarist of the past two decades. This recognition forms part of guitarguitar’s 20th-anniversary celebrations, which include the special exhibition titled ‘Playable,’ dedicated to guitarists who have made a lasting impact on the music world.
The poll, which drew considerable attention from both music lovers and industry experts, saw John Frusciante of the Red Hot Chili Peppers top the rankings. Frusciante’s virtuosity and innovative approach to the guitar have long been praised, securing his place as the top guitarist on the list.
Swift’s inclusion in the top 10 may raise some eyebrows, especially since she is more commonly associated with her vocal and songwriting skills rather than her guitar playing. However, Swift has frequently showcased her guitar skills throughout her career, incorporating the instrument into live performances and studio recordings. Her use of the guitar as a key element of her musical identity highlights her versatility and deeper musicality.
Despite not being traditionally celebrated for technical prowess on the guitar, Swift’s connection with her audience through the instrument has been central to her identity as a well-rounded musician. Her ability to convey emotion through her guitar playing adds another layer to her artistic expression, cementing her place among the 20 most influential guitarists of the last two decades.
After Frusciante, the list continues with Alex Turner of Arctic Monkeys in second place and John Mayer in third.
The complete list of all 20 rankings can be found below:
Julien Baker
John Frusciante (Red Hot Chili Peppers)
Alex Turner (Arctic Monkeys)
John Mayer
Sam Fender
Jonny Greenwood (Radiohead)
Chris Shiflett (Foo Fighters)
Ed O’Brien (Radiohead)
Taylor Swift
Tom DeLonge (Blink-182)
Simon Neil (Biffy Clyro)
Jim Root (Slipknot)
Keith Urban
John 5 (Mötley Crüe)
Brad Paisley
Troy Van Leeuwen (Queens Of The Stone Age)
Albert Hammond Jr. (The Strokes)
H.E.R.
Adam Hann (The 1975)
Ed Sheeran
Chet Atkins rolling over in his grave .
And NOWHERE do I see Eric Clapton. Why?
Prince is having a good laugh.
I don’t think I’ve ever heard a Taylor Swift song, so who knows - maybe she is that good.
To be fair, the list is supposed to be of contemporary, newer guitarists.
She’s better than Duane Allman
Hahahhahahahhahahhhhhaaahahaah
She does write all of those popular songs. She wrote a song about it. Like to hear it? Here it go...
And Beyonce should be elected to the Oprey for her life long career in Country music too.
Duane’s been dead for 53 years. He’s ineligible.
Owais ‘Vitek’ Nabi
In his native language, Owais ‘Vitek’ Nabi means ignorant bastard.
Babylon Bee?
Ok ok I just read it.
Duh.
So is Eddie Van Halen.
LOL.... What a joke of a poll. The participants were the same people who were brain dead enough to listen to her stuff in the first place. And it has been proven that most of her stuff is pre-recorded with her lipp syncing it. Also she uses Auto pitch and Auto tune if I remember right. Just a real bag of talent. Go look up stuff on her by Wings of Pegasus on youtube. But she did come out against Trump which is why left loves her.
Based on what?
Kind of like Barky getting the Nobel Peace Prize fifteen minutes after taking office.
Ridiculous list.
No Eric Clapton? If he’s not on the list, then it’s totally bogus.
Exactly. What a LAME list.
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