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
So glad I was a teen then (80’s) and not a teen now.
She has been using the guitar to accompany herself for approximately 20 years since she took it up at the age of 12. She was born in 1999 and her first album came out in 2006. It would be surprising to me if she hadn’t picked up some good guitar technique along the way.
As far as being the 8th best guitarists in the last 20 years... The wording is probably a little off. It should probably be more along the lines of 8th best female pop star in the last 20 years who actually is capable of accompanying herself with a guitar. Many of them are capable of using guitars and other musical instruments only as props in movies, shows and concerts.
Without a doubt! He and Glen Campbell together were a treat.
I actually just discovered Billy Strings about a month ago when he was interviewed by Rick Beato. He is scary good.
Never could stand anything Clapton did after Cream .
The only song that has ever impressed this mediocre musicologist is her performance of Red, with Alison Krauss and Vince Gill; the three play off of each other brilliantly. But 8th best guitarist? Someone forgot [insert pronoun] meds.
Orianthi would mop the floor with Tay-Tay
Carla Maffioletti
Better guitarist, better singer than Swift.
Of course I know who Roy Clark and Glen Campbell are but I had to look them up to see them playing together...and here they are actually playing together...literally.
B. S. Where’s Joe Satriani?
Family Strings: Billy Strings and His Dad Terry Barber
Just those two playing for a couple hours.
I have never heard or seen this Swift person play the guitar, but I feel confident that this is paid-for BS!
Never even heard her sing, let alone play guitar, and don’t want to.
And no Derek Trucks. Total joke of a list.
The only song that has ever impressed this mediocre musicologist is her performance of Red,
The King Crimson song? Now that would be impressive.
Past 20 years? Guthrie Govan, Trucks, Sheeran. All incredible guitar talent. Tay? She’s a performer. Those three guys are top tier
That’s an AI written article. Telltale signs of genetic filler phrases and a lack of relevant detail.
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