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
What about Yngwie Malmsteen?
“I don’t see Jimi Hendrix either.”
“of the last 20 years” is probably the reason Jimi isn’t on there. He hasn’t put out any good material since that choking incident.
This is just getting ridiculous. What is next??? NASCAR???? Chewing tobacco??? Jock straps??? Trying to drum up the little girls to get excited about something they know nothing about just for money????
Easy enough to research.
Taylor Swift cant hold a candle
to the likes of these guys;
Jeff Beck: One of the greatest guitarists of all time, Jeff Beck died on January 10, 2023, after contracting bacterial meningitis at the age of 78.
John Sykes: The guitarist who played in legendary bands Whitesnake and Thin Lizzy died on January 20, 2025, at the age of 65.
D’Wayne Wiggins: Best known for his work with R&B group Tony! Toni! Toné!, D’Wayne Wiggins died on March 7, 2025, at the age of 64 after receiving a bladder cancer diagnosis a year ago.
The last 20 years?
Shed rank last in her own band.
so glad i got to see Randy Rhoads...twice. Best of em all.
I listen to almost zero modern music, but I know she’s no where near Keith Urban’s skill level.
Were they polling protesters at a Tesla dealership?
This is for recent folk. Eric is still towards the top of the “all time players” list.
I recognize two or three names here.
I’m with you. No way!
Hilarious!
Pretty lame list. Certainly Matteo Mancuso should be on there. Steve Vai, Tommy Emmanuel and Joe Bonamassa like him. Young virtuso from Sicily.
https://youtu.be/Fq_q7OzvG9o?t=102
I liked Derek and the Dominoes but let's be honest, he was pretty much creatively spent after that.
This isn't to negate Clapton's influence on the electric guitar, which was massive and well-deserved. But really, we're talking about everything he did prior to 1971, the year he turned 26.
This was roughly a mere five year run that gave us The Yardbirds, John Mayall's Bluesbreakers, Cream, Blind Faith, Delaney & Bonnie, and finally, DatD.
Should have Daniela Villarreal Vélez from The Warning.
I nominate Sam “Bam” Koltun. Was a child prodigy, played in rock bands since he was 12 yrs old. Currently a member of Faster Pussycat, Dorothy, Budderside, currently on the road filling in with Godsmack. Guy can play dang near anything. Look him up.
Right when The Yardbirds were hitting their stride , Clapton split . “ “For Your Love” is a rock song written by Graham Gouldman and recorded by the English group the Yardbirds. Released in March 1965, it was their first top ten hit in both the UK and the US. The song was a departure from the group’s blues roots in favour of a more commercial pop rock sound. Guitarist Eric Clapton disapproved of this change, and chose to leave the group shortly after the single was released.”
Duh !
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