The top 5 guitarist who inspired my own playing
Introduction:
Embarking on my
guitar-playing journey took an unconventional turn, as my initial aspiration
was to become a vocalist. Faced with the realization that singing wasn’t my
innate talent, I sought an alternative route to express musical creativity.
Initially drawn to drumming, my musical trajectory soon pivoted towards the
guitar at the age of 17, marking the beginning of collaborative musical
ventures with my childhood best friend. In this journey, five guitarists have
profoundly influenced and inspired my playing style.
Slash:
Among these
influential figures is Slash, whose iconic presence and edgy yet soulful
playing style captured my imagination. While not the most technically
proficient guitarist, Slash’s stage charisma and unmistakable rock star aura
set him apart. Notably, his masterpiece “November Rain” showcases a
blend of soulful melodies and slow, beautiful bends. In contrast,
“Anastasia” stands out as a complex composition, starting slow and
progressively gaining speed, revealing Slash’s versatility beyond the fast blues
style.
Yngwie Malmsteen:
Yngwie Malmsteen, a
polarizing figure in the guitar world, introduced me to the neoclassical
movement. Despite initial reservations, I came to appreciate his unique style,
influenced by classical composers like Beethoven and Sebastian Bach. His magnum
opus, “Blackstar,” performed with the philharmonic orchestra,
exemplifies his flashy and virtuosic approach, holding and playing notes with keyboard-like
style.
Jason Becker:
My exploration of
guitarists led me to Jason Becker, whose unfortunate circumstances did not
diminish the impact of his distinct style. “Altitudes,” a masterpiece
written in a classical format, transitions seamlessly between slow, melodic
segments and lightning-fast arpeggios, showcasing Becker’s unparalleled skill
and creativity.
Jason Richardson:
Playing a 7-string
guitar, Jason Richardson became a significant influence on my style. His
incredible speed and refusal to bar his sweeps added a unique dimension to my
playing. Richardson’s albums, designed as orchestral pieces, defy genre
boundaries, making it challenging to pick a single song. Owning a Jason
Richardson signature guitar has further enriched my musical experience,
allowing me to explore various genres with ease.
Jacky Vincent:
Among the
lesser-known yet highly influential guitarists is Jacky Vincent, renowned for
his mind-bending speed and unique playing techniques. As a founding member of
Falling in Reverse, Vincent’s contribution, especially in “Born to
Lead,” co-written with Rusty Cooley, stands out as an inspiring and
technically demanding guitar solo. His use of economy picking and distinctive
sweep picking has profoundly shaped my own playing approach.
Conclusion:
In the kaleidoscope
of musical influences, these five guitarists have collectively shaped my
playing style. Each maestro contributes a unique flavor, from Slash’s iconic
stage presence to Yngwie Malmsteen’s neoclassical brilliance, Jason Becker’s
creativity, Jason Richardson’s genre-defying versatility, to Jacky Vincent’s
unparalleled speed. While my skills may not match theirs, their collective
impact is evident in the amalgamation of techniques and styles that define my
unique approach to the guitar. As I continue on this musical journey, I find
inspiration in their legacies, forever grateful for the indelible mark each has
left on my artistic expression.