The 22 Most Overlooked Guitarists In History

Arguably, nothing beats the thrill of jamming on your guitar, except perhaps debating with your friends about which guitarist reigns supreme. From legends like Jimmy Page and Eddie Van Halen to virtuosos such as Steve Vai, everyone has their pick for the best. However, a more intriguing question might be: who is the most underrated of them all?

With an endless list of guitar players to choose from, it’s easy to argue about who stands as the most underrated of all time. Some may have been overlooked because their band dissolved or faded into obscurity, others remained in the background, never quite achieving fame, while some are simply misjudged as mediocre. Whatever the reason, here are the 22 most underrated guitarists who deserve recognition.

22. Malcolm Young - AC/DC

AC/DC has remained one of the most iconic rock bands for over four decades, but they often get criticized for their straightforward rock sound, which is built on power chords, a solid drumbeat, and lyrics centered around sexual innuendo. When the band is praised, it's typically for the distinctive vocal style of the late Bon Scott and his replacement Brian Johnson, or the electrifying guitar work of lead guitarist Angus Young. In fact, many casual fans of the band might assume that Angus is the only guitarist in AC/DC, given his iconic schoolboy stage presence during the band's live shows. However, since the band's inception until his unfortunate passing from dementia in 2017, Angus' brother Malcolm held down the rhythm guitar role for AC/DC.

Malcolm was the embodiment of the unsung hero of guitar playing, choosing to stay in the background while his brother took the spotlight with flashy solos. In an interview with Guitar World, Angus expressed nothing but admiration for his brother's playing, noting that "he’s doing something much more unique than what I do—with that raw, natural sound of his," and even said that Malcolm was a better guitarist than him, but preferred to focus on rhythm. Though Malcolm Young will never be ranked among the most celebrated rock guitarists, any band fortunate enough to have him would be lucky indeed.

http://www.acdcfans.net/forum/people.php?PageAction=SignOutNow&ReturnUrl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.acdcfans.net%2Fforum%2Fcomments.php%3FDiscussionID%3D10678 Source: AC/DC Forum

21. Jerry Cantrell - Alice in Chains

Although Alice in Chains will always be associated with the Seattle Grunge movement, there is one distinct factor that sets them apart from many of their peers: Jerry Cantrell’s lead guitar work. Along with creating one of the greatest vocal harmonies with the late Layne Staley (and later with Staley’s replacement William DuVall, who joined in 2006), Cantrell crafted some of the darkest and most melodic riffs of the era.

In many ways, Cantrell can be seen as the successor to Black Sabbath's Tony Iommi, as both guitarists have mastered the art of producing hauntingly heavy guitar work for their bands. While iconic Alice in Chains tracks like “Man in the Box” and “The Rooster” aren’t known for their intricate guitar parts, they showcase Cantrell’s ability to create tasteful and memorable lead guitar lines.

Among the big four of Seattle Grunge, Alice in Chains never quite reached the same level of popularity as Nirvana, Pearl Jam, or Soundgarden. Even when they are discussed, the focus often lands on Staley and his struggles, which ultimately led to his tragic overdose in 2002. However, it’s Cantrell who has remained the backbone of Alice in Chains throughout their 30+ year career, and he certainly deserves more recognition for his contributions than he currently receives.

https://www.guitarplayer.com/players/alice-in-chains-jerry-cantrell-tells-who-started-the-grunge-movement Source: Guitar Player

20. Joey Santiago - Pixies

Kurt Cobain once confessed that he “was basically trying to rip off the Pixies” when creating Nirvana’s sound. This makes it clear that the influence of Pixies guitarist Joey Santiago had a massive impact, not only on Cobain but also on the entire alternative rock scene of the 90s.

Santiago’s playing may not be known for complexity, but David Bowie captured it perfectly when he described Santiago as “terribly underrated” in the 2002 documentary *Gouge*. Bowie elaborated, saying, “It’s much more about texture,” and praised Santiago for providing “extraordinary texture.” Through his use of dissonant, feedback-laden guitars, Santiago played a pivotal role in the Pixies' signature quiet-loud songwriting style, which Nirvana adopted, as Cobain admitted to borrowing this technique for his own writing. Credit should also go to Black Francis, the Pixies' other guitarist, who frequently exchanged hooks with Santiago.

When discussing the “greatest guitarists,” the conversation often centers on technical skill, but in terms of creating a truly distinct sound, few can match the impact Joey Santiago has had with the Pixies.

https://reverb.com/news/reverb-interview-joey-santiago-of-the-pixies Source: Reverb

19. Robert Fripp - King Crimson

When most casual rock fans are asked to name a member of the progressive rock pioneers, King Crimson, they’re likely to mention Greg Lake, the band’s bassist and lead vocalist who played on their groundbreaking debut album, *In the Court of the Crimson King*, before leaving to form Emerson, Lake & Palmer. However, the member who truly deserves recognition, not just from prog fans but from rock enthusiasts in general, is Robert Fripp, the band’s founding member.

Not only has Fripp remained the sole constant member of King Crimson since its inception in 1968, but he has also been the driving force behind the band’s musical evolution throughout its history. A highly underrated guitarist, Fripp’s achievements are all the more remarkable considering he was tone-deaf when he first began playing. Rather than quit, Fripp adapted by creating his own tuning system, “New Standard tuning” (C2-G2-D3-A3-E4-G4), and popularized a technique called crosspicking, resembling a banjo roll. Another defining feature of Fripp’s style is that, unlike many of his peers, his technique is rooted not in blues, but in avant-garde jazz and European classical music. These factors culminate in a completely unique approach to guitar that has unfortunately gone largely underappreciated in mainstream music circles.

http://geargods.net/tutorials/robert-fripp-new-standard-tuning-guitar/ Source: GearGods

18. Vernon Reid - Living Colour

Perhaps the strongest case for Vernon Reid’s position as one of rock’s most underappreciated guitarists lies in the fact that, despite being ranked #66 on Rolling Stone’s 2004 list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time, he was omitted from the 2011 update entirely. Best known as the lead guitarist and primary songwriter for the glam-rock band Living Colour, Reid is often associated with shredding in heavy metal, but his diverse blend of influences and styles makes him an exceptionally versatile guitarist, at ease in virtually any genre. Before forming Living Colour, Reid played alongside jazz drummer Ronald Shannon Jackson, and his jazz and R&B influences are clearly evident in all of his guitar work.

Vernon Reid’s broad array of musical influences was pivotal in helping Living Colour stand out during a time when the rock scene was dominated by basic riffs and monotonous guitar tones. While the band’s biggest hit, “Cult of Personality,” showcases Reid’s skillful guitar work, that iconic anthem is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to his impressive achievements as a guitarist.

https://www.digitaltrends.com/music/audiophile-living-colour-vernon-reid/ Source: Digital Trends

17. Billy Corgan - Smashing Pumpkins

Today, Billy Corgan is primarily known for his nasally singing, his reputation as a control freak, and his passion for pro wrestling and cat magazine covers. However, what might be overlooked is that he’s an immensely skilled guitarist. This talent is especially evident in the Smashing Pumpkins' early albums when the guitars were still central to their sound.

To fully appreciate Corgan’s prowess, one need only listen to his fiery solos on tracks like “Soma” and “Cherub Rock.” These solos make it clear that Corgan possesses remarkable technical ability, which he credits to his early influences from guitar virtuosos like Steve Vai and Joe Satriani. While Corgan’s shredding abilities are impressive, it’s his meticulous attention to detail that truly sets him apart and helped make albums like *Siamese Dream* and *Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness* defining moments in the 90s alt-rock movement.

The making of *Siamese Dream* nearly caused the band to fall apart, especially due to Billy Corgan’s overwhelming control over the process (he played nearly all of the instruments on the album, except for the drums). Despite the strain, the end result was one of the decade's most iconic guitar-driven rock albums. While Billy Corgan may be the subject of some jokes in music circles today, his impact as an influential guitarist is indisputable.

https://www.musicradar.com/news/billy-corgan-is-working-with-electro-harmonix-on-a-siamese-dream-op-amp-big-muff-reissue Source: MusicRadar

16. Bernard Sumner - Joy Division, New Order

It’s hard to believe that someone who helped shape the sound of not just alternative rock, but also electronic music and synth-pop, would not be considered one of the all-time great guitarists. Yet, Bernard Sumner, despite being a key figure in both Joy Division and New Order, doesn’t enjoy the same reverence among guitarists as legends like Hendrix, Page, or even Cobain.

As a founding member of both Joy Division and its successor New Order, Bernard Sumner managed to evolve his guitar style with the changing times, never getting stuck in one particular sound. His gritty, distorted guitar on Joy Division’s groundbreaking *Unknown Pleasures* is a world apart from the more polished, synth-driven riffs he would play with New Order as that band’s sound became more electronic. Yet, throughout his career, Sumner’s playing has always been marked by a sense of restraint, never overplaying. While he may not be known as a virtuoso, Sumner’s ability to craft memorable, effective riffs has earned him a lasting influence on younger generations of guitarists.

https://news.sky.com/story/new-order-singer-bernard-sumner-children-abandoned-over-mental-health-11502654 Source: Sky News

15. Paul McCartney - The Beatles, Wings, Solo

It might be controversial to say, considering Paul McCartney’s legendary status, but he is, in fact, an often overlooked guitarist. While McCartney is predominantly recognized for his bass playing, he only took on that role in The Beatles because no one else would. At his core, McCartney has always been a guitarist.

During his time with The Beatles, Wings, and his solo career, McCartney was constantly writing and recording guitar parts in the studio, though he rarely performed them live. On stage, he did play acoustic guitar on songs like “Blackbird” and “I’ve Just Seen a Face,” but these live performances don’t showcase the full extent of McCartney’s guitar-playing talents.

With The Beatles, McCartney played the guitar solos on tracks like “Taxman” and “Drive My Car,” contributed most of the guitar work on “Helter Skelter,” and provided the iconic guitar solo on “Good Morning, Good Morning.” He also played the majority of the guitar parts on the legendary Wings album, *Band on the Run*. On his 1970 solo album *McCartney*, he played every instrument, including all the guitar parts. McCartney’s style may seem simple, lacking many formal techniques due to never having formal lessons, but his guitar playing remains exceptional regardless of its simplicity.

Even though McCartney is often regarded as the greatest rock musician ever, he remains one of the most underappreciated guitarists in music history.

https://www.guitarplayer.com/guitaraficionado/5463 Source: Guitar Player

14. Lindsey Buckingham - Fleetwood Mac

What makes Fleetwood Mac so iconic is that Lindsey is the guy, and Stevie is the girl.

(Hold For Laughs)

On a more serious note, Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac is a guitarist who is vastly underrated and deserves far more recognition. To start, Buckingham doesn't use a guitar pick, a rarity for a lead guitarist. Instead, he relies solely on his fingers, allowing him to create a greater range of tonal variation. He can strike multiple strings at once and adjust the dynamics between individual strings with ease. Additionally, he’s known for using a wide range of unconventional tunings, including rare open tunings, which help him carve out a distinctive sound. This is especially apparent in his solo work and performances.

Buckingham is a prime example of the “supporting guitarist” role. He doesn't seek to dominate the mix with his playing or try to steal the spotlight. His style is more about enhancing the overall sound of the song, which, unfortunately, has led to his underrated status as a guitarist.

Although Lindsey Buckingham doesn’t grab the spotlight with long solos or flashy displays, his contributions were exactly what Fleetwood Mac needed. He may not be a virtuoso, but he’s certainly an exceptional guitarist.

http://www.fleetwoodmacnews.com/2012/08/review-lindsey-buckingham-live-in.html Source: Fleetwood Mac News

13. Steven Wilson - Porcupine Tree, Solo

If you're a guitarist, chances are you have that one friend who constantly urges you to check out ‘In Absentia’ by Porcupine Tree, saying it’s “unreal!” Regardless of whether you find Porcupine Tree’s music “unreal” or not, there’s no denying the brilliance of Steven Wilson’s guitar work.

Wilson often falls into the category of being the lead guitarist that people forget is also the lead singer. It’s a common fate for musicians like Prince, who wear both hats. For over two decades, Wilson was the mastermind behind Porcupine Tree, not only writing the lyrics but also composing much of the music. His guitar playing has evolved over the years, adapting to the shifting sounds of the band. In his earlier years, his playing was characterized by delicate, minimalist arpeggios, but later on, he embraced a heavier, more overdriven tone. One of his standout qualities is his ability to layer multiple guitar tracks, creating a “wall of sound” while still maintaining clarity and engagement. A perfect example of this is heard in Porcupine Tree’s track “Anesthetize.”

Wilson’s guitar playing reached new heights with the release of ‘In Absentia’ in 2002. This album marked a shift toward a heavier, more complex sound, incorporating drop tunings and more intricate guitar solos. Despite being the frontman and primary songwriter for Porcupine Tree, Wilson’s guitar skills often go unrecognized, but he is undoubtedly one of the most underrated guitarists of the past 25 years.

http://teamrock.com/feature/2011-01-26/steven-wilson-the-power-behind-porcupine-tree Source: TeamRock

12. Kim Thayil - Soundgarden

The recent passing of Soundgarden’s iconic frontman, Chris Cornell, has brought the band’s music back into the spotlight, with numerous tributes and eulogies commemorating his life. This resurgence has also reminded fans of Kim Thayil’s essential contributions as the band’s guitarist.

Soundgarden is often remembered for its powerhouse vocals and stellar musicianship, but Kim Thayil’s guitar work often goes unrecognized. He wasn’t seen as a “guitar hero,” but this perception is far from accurate. Thayil’s distinctive playing style and sound were integral to the essence of Soundgarden’s music.

Thayil’s signature heavy riffs were a key part of shaping the “Seattle Sound” that defined early 1990s grunge, alongside other notable bands of the era. His creative use of alternate and unconventional tunings gave his guitar tone a unique quality, adding a distinct touch to the band’s sound.

While Soundgarden will forever be remembered for Chris Cornell’s powerful voice, Kim Thayil’s contribution to the band’s distinctive sound deserves more recognition.

https://www.guitarworld.com/features/interview-soundgardens-kim-thayil-alternate-tunings-king-animal-and-more Source: Guitar World

11. Graham Coxon - Blur, Solo

I was all about Oasis growing up, so I couldn’t stand Blur and never paid much attention to them. But when I finally let go of my bias and picked up some Blur albums, I was instantly hooked on Graham Coxon’s guitar work and thought, 'How on earth have I never heard of this guy before!?'

Graham Coxon stands out as one of the most talented guitarists of the 1990s, particularly during the Britpop movement. His minimalist style and straightforward solos were an ideal fit for the type of music Blur was making. But Coxon wasn’t afraid to step into the spotlight with his guitar playing, as seen in Blur’s debut album, Leisure. His versatility is what truly sets him apart. From the punchy, overdriven rhythm of 'Girls and Boys' to the delicate arpeggios on 'Tender,' Coxon has mastered a variety of styles.

While Coxon’s guitar playing isn’t overly intricate, it’s undeniably unique to him. He approaches his instrument in a way that sets him apart from others. Take, for example, the solo on 'Country House'—it sounds unconventional and a bit out of place, but it fits perfectly with the song’s cocky, swaggering vibe.

Graham Coxon may not fit the traditional 'guitar hero' image, but there’s no denying that he is THE guitar hero of the Britpop era, and possibly even the defining figure of 1990s mainstream rock.

https://fanart.tv/artist/fb56cc34-2ab1-4621-ac18-9bf2895e5f4f/coxon-graham/ Source: Fanart.tv

10. Richie Sambora - Bon Jovi, Solo

It might come as a surprise to some, but many people don’t actually realize that Bon Jovi is a full band. A good number of fans mistakenly think that John Bon Jovi is a solo artist, and the rest of the band members are just supporting him. In reality, Bon Jovi is an actual band with actual members, and the most talented of those members is the former lead guitarist, Richie Sambora.

Richie Sambora has been the creative force behind Bon Jovi’s iconic sound since the early 1980s. Over the years, his playing evolved with the band’s changing musical style. His 1980s work was known for fast, soaring solos, heavy riffs, and plenty of whammy bar action. As the band progressed, Sambora’s sound became more alternative rock-based, with a noticeable shift toward acoustic guitar work. He is also known for using a wide range of guitars during live performances, each configured with different effects and output levels to match the song, giving him a broad tonal palette throughout his career.

Richie Sambora spent over 25 years touring with Bon Jovi, yet his contributions often go underappreciated. Not only is he an incredibly skilled player with exceptional technical ability, but his versatility shines through in his mastery of numerous guitar styles. His acoustic playing is unmatched, and he’s written some of rock’s most unforgettable riffs. Sambora truly deserves more recognition for his guitar-playing brilliance, as he has the capability to play virtually any style with ease. Richie Sambora is undoubtedly one of the most underrated guitarists of all time.

https://www.thestar.com/entertainment/music/2013/04/03/guitarist_richie_sambora_to_miss_part_of_bon_jovi_tour_citing_personal_issues.html Source: Toronto Star

9. John Squire - The Stone Roses

John Squire may not be a household name, but he played guitar for one of the most groundbreaking bands in music history, The Stone Roses. As part of the Manchester “Madchester” movement in the 1980s, The Stone Roses revolutionized music. Their debut album is often hailed as one of the greatest debut albums ever, even making it into NME’s top 10 albums of all time.

Squire’s guitar work is a key element of The Stone Roses’ sound, with his infectious riffs and sparkling melodies driving the music. His signature use of Chorus and Reverb effects helped create a distinct sound. But his talent isn’t just in chiming arpeggios and chord progressions; Squire also excels at blues-rock solos and intense, distorted slide guitar riffs.

Though The Stone Roses remain more popular in the UK, their guitar-driven sound is instantly recognizable to anyone who listens. Despite being the lead guitarist for one of the most influential bands of the past few decades, John Squire remains one of the most underrated guitarists out there.

http://www.digitalspy.com/music/news/a788135/the-stone-roses-new-music-is-finally-confirmed-and-ian-brown-says-its-sounding-glorious/ Source: Digital Spy

8. Wes Borland - Limp Bizkit

Limp Bizkit might be one of the most universally criticized bands in history, with their obnoxious mix of rap and rock, and lyrics fueled by teen angst that have earned them a spot on the Mount Rushmore of bad music. A lot of this is thanks to Fred Durst and his controversies. However, what most people overlook is that amidst their chaotic rap-rock sound, there’s actually some impressive guitar work.

Wes Borland, Limp Bizkit’s guitarist, is surprisingly skilled. If you listen closely to their tracks, you’ll find some exceptional riffs. He brought fresh ideas to the table by incorporating seven-string guitars, a rarity at the time, giving his sound an innovative edge. Borland’s use of these guitars allowed him to craft some of his finest riffs that stand out from the typical rock of the era.

Borland is particularly known for his unique blend of clean and overdriven guitar tones. Many of Limp Bizkit's tracks feature him shifting seamlessly between crisp, clear tones and heavy, overdriven sounds. This contrast creates an effective backdrop for Fred Durst’s vocal style and the overall energy of the band’s music.

You can say what you want about Fred Durst and debate Limp Bizkit’s place in music history, but one thing is undeniable — Wes Borland is an incredibly talented and often overlooked guitarist.

https://www.guitarworld.com/news/limp-bizkit-guitarist-wes-borland-attacks-dream-theater-twitter Source: Guitar World

7. Johnny Marr - The Smiths, Modest Mouse, Solo

Whenever Johnny Marr comes to mind, I always think of a memorable quote from Noel Gallagher, a fellow British rocker, who said, “You can sit round the house and have a strum of Smiths songs, but you can’t actually play them, no one can.” This perfectly encapsulates Marr’s reputation as a guitarist.

Johnny Marr began his journey with The Smiths at just 19, quickly becoming the heart of their punchy, upbeat tracks. His guitars, often layered and overdubbed, never overshadowed the vocals but instead perfectly complemented them. Marr isn’t your traditional “guitar hero”; while he can certainly hold his own in a solo, most of his work with The Smiths, Modest Mouse, and in his solo career is focused on supporting the vocalist and maintaining a clear, balanced mix rather than dominating with extended solos.

Johnny Marr revolutionized chord playing by reimagining the use of major and minor chords, giving them a fresh sonic dimension. By utilizing capoed-open chords and unconventional finger placements, Marr crafted progressions and arpeggios that had never been heard before. His riffs are so fast-paced that few can replicate them accurately. Take a look at this clip from the 2010 BBC documentary 'I’m In A Rock ‘n’ Roll Band,' where a few of Marr’s peers discuss how mastering his riff became a symbol of achievement.

By often staying in the background both on stage and within the mix, Johnny Marr has become one of music's most underappreciated guitarists. It's time for him to step into the spotlight and receive the recognition he truly deserves.

https://www.guitarworld.com/uncategorized/dear-guitar-hero-submit-your-questions-johnny-marr Source: Guitar World

6. Prince

Prince may very well be the most gifted musician in history. Not only did he play every instrument on his albums, but he did it all himself. However, his primary instrument was the guitar, and he doesn’t always get the credit he deserves for his exceptional skills as a guitarist.

To truly appreciate Prince’s guitar skills, head over to YouTube and watch his solo performance of 'While My Guitar Gently Weeps' at George Harrison’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. That video speaks volumes about Prince’s guitar abilities, far more than any words could. Despite being known primarily as a pop star and performer, Prince was, in fact, a guitar virtuoso. Though often seen performing with a guitar, he was frequently involved in choreographed routines and larger performance spectacles.

Prince’s finest guitar work shines through in his monumental solos, especially in 'Purple Rain.' Though simple in technique, the solo resonates deeply with listeners and is the perfect complement to the track’s emotional vibe.

Prince’s guitar contributions will probably continue to be overlooked, but he was undeniably one of the greatest guitarists of his era.

https://www.guitarplayer.com/technique/10-ways-to-play-like-prince Source: Guitar Player

5. The Edge - U2

The Edge doesn’t get nearly enough recognition for his contributions. While he might not be a virtuoso in the technical sense or known for shredding through long solos, he has invented a completely unique style of guitar playing, transforming the way guitar effects units are utilized.

From U2’s debut album in 1980, the Edge has taken delay effects to new heights. His signature use of dotted eight-note delay is instantly identifiable. When U2 plays, you immediately recognize his distinctive sound. His constant acquisition of rack-mounted effects and midi-control units ensures his tone is always evolving. If you ever tried to mimic the Edge in a U2 cover band, you’d need an entirely different setup for each song.

Some critics argue that using extensive effects is a form of cheating or a crutch. However, that argument is simply outdated. Every band you see nowadays has a massive effects rack, regardless of genre. Effects are an essential part of modern guitar playing, offering more creative possibilities and making the guitarist's job easier.

What truly sets the Edge apart is the diversity of his guitar tones from song to song. Unlike guitarists like Noel Gallagher, who maintain a consistent overdriven sound across tracks, the Edge creates a unique sonic environment for each piece. His choice of numerous guitars also adds to the complexity and range of his tones.

So no, the Edge might not win a guitar duel against Jimmy Page, but that’s not even the point. Jimmy Page himself best described the Edge as a “sonic architect,” which speaks volumes about his innovative approach to sound.

4. Myles Kennedy - Alter Bridge, Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators

Myles Kennedy isn’t just a phenomenal vocalist — he’s also an exceptional guitarist. He’s not just the frontman strumming chords; Kennedy is a powerhouse player in his own right.

While Kennedy is widely recognized for his incredible singing, he actually started his musical journey as a guitar instructor. Before becoming the lead singer of Alter Bridge, Kennedy played lead guitar in various bands. Initially, he played rhythm guitar in Alter Bridge to complement Mark Tremonti’s lead work, but his guitar skills have evolved dramatically over time. At Alter Bridge shows, Kennedy often engages in guitar duels with Tremonti, swapping solos and showcasing his own technical prowess. His ability to nail intricate riffs while singing is truly remarkable; it’s unclear how he manages to do both so flawlessly.

Though his voice is what he’s most famous for, Myles Kennedy deserves as much recognition for his guitar skills. One of the reasons he’s often underrated might be that he doesn’t actively seek the spotlight with his guitar work. When he first joined Alter Bridge, Kennedy even tried to downplay his playing to avoid overshadowing Mark Tremonti. However, it’s high time he received the recognition his guitar talent truly deserves.

Stephanie_Pearl_Photography

3. Mike McCready - Pearl Jam

For me, Mike McCready will always be the Jimi Hendrix of the 1990s. If you doubt that, just listen to the B-side track 'Yellow Ledbetter.' The song feels like something Hendrix could have written. In fact, when I first heard it, I mistook it for a Hendrix track — until Eddie Vedder started singing.

Mike McCready might just be the finest guitarist of the 1990s, even though his brilliance has largely gone unrecognized. His unique, blues-influenced playing is unmistakably his own. Unlike many others on this list, McCready had to share the spotlight with another guitarist, but that doesn't diminish his impact. His interplay with Stone Gossard in Pearl Jam is iconic, and even when competing with another guitar, McCready always carves out his own sonic identity. What's truly distinctive about McCready is his preference for simplicity; he uses few effects, relying mostly on the pure tone of his guitar and amp, adding just subtle touches of color from other effects.

Pearl Jam was one of the most influential bands of the 1990s, and it’s high time Mike McCready, their lead guitarist, gets the recognition he deserves. His career remains somewhat overlooked, which makes him one of the most underrated guitarists of all time.

https://www.guitarplayer.com/guitaraficionado/how-pearl-jams-mike-mccready-wrote-music-for-a-dying-fan Source: Guitar Player

2. Alex Lifeson - Rush

If you call yourself a rock guitarist and haven’t learned at least one riff by Rush, you’re missing out. Rush is one of the most powerful rock bands ever, and Alex Lifeson composed some of the catchiest and most infectious riffs in rock history. Sure, the lyrics to their songs might seem odd and surreal, but does it really matter? The music always packs a punch and blows away audiences.

Alex Lifeson is one of rock’s most underrated guitarists, and much of that is due to the nature of Rush’s music. Progressive rock doesn’t exactly dominate mainstream radio, after all. But no matter the genre, Lifeson’s guitar work is some of the finest you’ll ever hear. Just listen to ‘La Villa Strangiato’ by Rush — you can’t deny how mind-blowing his guitar playing is. His ability to switch between complex time signatures without missing a beat is astonishing. His intricate riffs and solos are flawlessly replicated in Rush’s live performances, showcasing his world-class skill.

Sadly, being part of a band made up of three virtuoso musicians has often meant that Lifeson’s contributions get overshadowed by bassist Geddy Lee and drummer Neil Peart, who tend to steal the limelight. But it’s about time that Alex Lifeson receives the recognition he deserves. Throughout his career with Rush, his playing spanned many genres, grew increasingly complex, and always remained sharp as a tack. Lifeson is undeniably a top contender for the ‘Underrated Guitarists Club.’

https://tonereport.com/blogs/tone-tips/the-evolution-of-rushs-alex-lifeson-and-how-to-achieve-his-sound Source: Tone Report

1. Nick McCabe - The Verve

If you haven’t taken the time to truly experience The Verve’s *Urban Hymns* album, you’re missing out. Nick McCabe’s guitar work on that record is so masterfully subtle that it’s easy to overlook. He brought a whole new meaning to what I’d call 'atmospheric guitar playing.' McCabe added so much to the songs by playing so little, but the few notes he did play were always perfectly placed. A great example of this is the track 'Lucky Man.' The song features multiple layers of guitar, each supporting Richard Ashcroft’s acoustic strumming. The parts are so delicately woven in that you hardly notice them unless you listen carefully. Even McCabe’s solo feels more like a bridge than a traditional solo break, seamlessly blending into the song’s flow.

Nick McCabe has always been more of a supporting player in The Verve, despite being the lead guitarist. His role is to enhance the vocalist’s performance rather than dominate the song. His use of simple arpeggios and echo effects is unique to his sound, and no one has quite replicated the way McCabe plays. He is well-known for his precision and dedication to crafting guitar parts in the studio. In fact, his perfectionism has made him a challenging collaborator, with some producers claiming that he’s nearly impossible to work with due to the fact that he refuses to play a riff the same way twice.

Unfortunately, due to The Verve’s somewhat unfair reputation as a one-hit-wonder, Nick McCabe’s contribution to music has largely gone unnoticed by most listeners. However, if you take a deep dive into their music, you’ll come to realize that Nick McCabe is arguably one of the most underrated guitarists in the world.

http://www.thevervelive.com/2016/11/nick-mccabe-on-verves-studio-battles.html Source: The Verve Live