The Best Guitarist

Aside from some blues purists and perhaps a handful of onlookers who prefer to keep their names out of any popular idea, the world is pretty much in agreement that Jimi Hendrix was the greatest guitarist the world has ever seen. Everyone except Hendrix himself, of course. 

The counterculture poster boy, a bastion of free expression and otherworldly talent, Hendrix never found too much solace in bravado. He was always far more interested in the artistry of playing the guitar over the competition.

When appearing on the Dick Cavett show, the host praised the young man, claiming him to be the finest guitar player of all time. Naturally, a smile broke out across Hendrix’s face as the praise rained down. 

However, he soon put Cavett right when he replied, “the greatest sitting in this chair, maybe.” It would appear that Hendrix had his own vision of who the best guitar player of all time was.

Before we go any further, there are a few contenders for the title of “best guitarist” in the world, as well as Hendrix’s favourite. Of course, the legendary set of Muddy Waters, Albert King and his namesake, B.B., are all up for serious consideration. 

Naturally, there is also a good argument for Eric Clapton being one of the greats. But there are only two men whom Hendrix has specifically landed praise upon.

The first came during The Mike Douglas Show when Hendrix had become the toast of the town. Douglas asked Hendrix: “What’s it was like to be the best rock guitarist in the world?” Jimi then beautifully responded, “I don’t know, you’ll have to ask Rory Gallagher”. 

For that reason alone, he could easily be considered Jimi’s all-time favourite. However, most believe that the title is reserved for another searing axeman, Billy Gibbons.  READ MORE