The legendary Red Hot Chili Peppers may be the brainchild of Antony Keidis, but their musical foundations are very much built upon the “funk-pumped energy” of John Frusciante. The wildly talented guitarist pushed the band to new heights, getting them up to fill up stadiums. Their style has transcended the genres as they have delved into the realms of funk, punk, psychedelic, and even hip-hop.
The band has been the recipient of numerous awards, including several Grammys, and has sold over 80 million records worldwide. Their remarkable song collection contains hits like “Otherside,” “Californication,” “Can’t Stop,” and much, much more.
John Fahey
America's folk guitar master was a phenomenal fingerpicked who transcended classic blues. His harmonies expressed total freedom. His guitar style has been largely influential and has been described as the basis of the "American Primitive Guitar."
Sadly, Fahey died at 61 in the year 2001. He will be remembered, first and foremost, for the legacy of his guitar playing but also for his mischievousness and wit. His most iconic hits are "Poor Boy" and "The Yellow Princess."
Robby Krieger
Trained originally in flamenco and jazz, guitarist Robby Krieger was the right-hand man to Jim Morrison, effectively turning their band, The Doors, into one of the most culturally significant bands of the 20th century. He also wrote some of their biggest hits, including Light My Fire.
The band, using smooth, jazz-like tones and the chilling poetry of Jim Morrison, was instrumental in creating some of the most unusual and memorable songs in rock music. Unfortunately, the band broke shortly after Jim Morrison's passing in 1971.
Richard Thompson
British folk-rock master of the band Fairport Convention is known for his speedy picking skill. Basing his style on English traditional music while also veering into dynamic electric guitar solos, Richard Thompson has been dubbed a "versatile virtuoso guitarist."
His incredible skill has earned one of the most prestigious guitar awards. On 10 June 2010, Thompson was awarded the Mojo Les Paul Award for "Guitar Legend."
John McLaughlin
John McLaughlin is hands down one of the key influencers in the fusion genre. By combining genres like Indian music with jazz and classical, McLaughlin has made the instrument as multi-faceted as can be. In fact, according to Jeff Beck, John McLaughlin was the best guitarist alive.
The musician was once invited to record with Miles Davis early in his career. But it was in his own Mahavishnu Orchestra that his serious riffs gave him that true legendary status.