The guitar solo is the moment when the guitarist gets the chance to showcase their technical skills and emotion. It’s one of the most iconic elements in rock music. Over the years, countless memorable solos have been created that have stood the test of time. Here’s our top 10 of the best guitar solos of all time:
10. Beat It (Eddie Van Halen)
Eddie Van Halen - Beat It Solo
Eddie Van Halen’s contribution to Michael Jackson’s “Beat It” is nothing short of phenomenal. The solo is both technical and melodic, adding a rock edge to the pop song, making it a cross-genre hit.
9. Crossroads (Eric Clapton)
Cream ( Eric Clapton ) - Crossroads ( best match )
Eric Clapton’s virtuosity shines through in “Crossroads,” a song by Cream. The speed and precision with which Clapton plays are testament to his unparalleled talent.
8. Master of Puppets (Kirk Hammett)
Metallica - Master of Puppets (Live) [Quebec Magnetic]
Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” features one of the most iconic solos in metal history. Kirk Hammett’s solo is both melodic and technical, adding depth to the powerful track.
7. Freebird (Collins/Rossington)
Allen Collins Freebird Solo - Lynyrd Skynyrd 1975
Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Freebird” is an anthem in its own right, and the guitar solo, played by Allen Collins and Gary Rossington, is one of the song’s highlights. It’s an extended, emotional solo that brings the song to an epic climax.
6. Hotel California (Don Felder, Joe Walsh)
Eagles Hotel California Live at The Capital Centre, Landover, Maryland USA 1977
The Eagles’ “Hotel California” is one of the most recognizable songs in rock history, and the guitar solo, played by Don Felder and Joe Walsh, is nothing short of masterful. It’s a perfect blend of technique and melody.
5. Comfortably Numb (David Gilmour)
"Comfortably Numb" solo - David Gilmour, Royal Albert Hall
Pink Floyd’s “Comfortably Numb” features one of the most emotional guitar solos ever. David Gilmour’s solo is both technical and expressive, adding a deep emotional layer to the song.
4. All Along the Watchtower (Jimi Hendrix)
The Jimi Hendrix Experience - All Along The Watchtower (Official Audio)
Jimi Hendrix’s rendition of Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower” is a masterpiece in its own right. Hendrix’s guitar solo is both wild and controlled, showcasing his unique style and technique.
3. Sweet Child O’ Mine (Slash)
Slash ft.Myles Kennedy & The Conspirators - Sweet Child O' Mine | Live in Sydney
Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’ Mine” is one of the most iconic rock songs ever, and Slash’s guitar solo is one of its highlights. It’s a melodic and technical solo that fits the song perfectly.
2. Eruption (Eddie Van Halen)
Eddie Van Halen - Solo/Eruption - Live without a Net
Eddie Van Halen’s “Eruption” is a technical marvel. It’s a solo that pushes the boundaries of what’s possible on the guitar and showcases Van Halen’s incredible talent.
1. Stairway to Heaven (Jimmy Page)
Stairway to Heaven Jimmy Page Solo
Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” is perhaps the most iconic rock song ever, and Jimmy Page’s guitar solo is the icing on the cake. It’s a beautiful, melodic solo that brings the song to an epic climax.