Who is your overall favorite guitarist?


At 44 years of age, I personally feel fortunate to have lived in an era along with some of the finest guitarists who have ever lived. I have always had an overwhelming love of music. As I look back to my earlier years of music appreciation (I took formal piano training for 17 years) I remember how my instructor would suggest exposing myself to the many different styles and disciplines of music.

These were such valuable words of wisdom. Considering the fact that this suggestion, more or less, forced me to be more open to musicians other than those that played in strictly rock and roll bands.

Wow, was I surprised to find that I could be as entertained by Chet Atkins and Les Paul as I could be by Ritchie Blackmore or Carlos Santana. Just think about some of the finest from our time. Jimi Hendrix, John McLaughlin, Robin Trower, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Eric Johnson, Steve Howe, Al DiMeola, the list could seem almost endless. All such incredible musicians.

Although it's very hard to pick one person or style in particular, let's remember the key words, "overall favorite".
I would probably have to say that my overall favorite would have to be Steve Morse (from Dixie Dregs fame).

Who is your favorite?
128x128buscis2
Post removed 
Two of my favorites for rock/metal not mentioned so far (I think, because I only went through about half of the posts!) are Micheal Schenker and Tony McAlpine.

Most of my other favs (along with every guitar player in history I think!) have been mentioned - impossible to narrow it down too much!
Kats,

Thought Schenker gets a bad rap a lot of times, I think he is one of the most under rated players out there. His MSG project with Robin McCauley was solid...
I really enjoy Buckethead right now. I dig the mask and bucket gear but the talent level is really up there. Love when he and Les Claypool jam, very lively.