Top 20 Guitars in the World
The world of rock music is filled with legendary instruments that have shaped the sound and culture of generations. Among these, certain guitars stand out not only for their unique sound but also for their significant role in music history. This article delves into the stories behind some of the top 20 guitars in the world celebrating their contributions to the world of music.
Eric Clapton’s ‘Blackie’.
1. Eric Clapton’s “Blackie”
Eric Clapton’s “Blackie” is one of the most famous guitars in rock history. This Fender Stratocaster was pieced together by Clapton himself from three different Stratocasters he bought in Nashville. Clapton played “Blackie” from 1970 to 1985, and it became his main instrument during this period. The guitar is renowned for its distinctive sound and its role in Clapton’s performances and recordings, including the iconic “Layla” and “Wonderful Tonight.”
The Creation of Blackie
Clapton’s decision to create “Blackie” came after he fell in love with the sound of the Fender Stratocaster. He bought six vintage Strats for $100 each and gave three away to friends, including George Harrison, Pete Townshend, and Steve Winwood. The remaining three were used to build “Blackie.” The guitar’s body and neck were from different years, which contributed to its unique sound.
Blackie’s Legacy
In 2004, Clapton auctioned “Blackie” to raise funds for his Crossroads Centre, a drug and alcohol rehabilitation centre. The guitar sold for $959,500, setting a new record at the time for the most expensive guitar sold at auction. “Blackie” remains a symbol of Clapton’s career and his influence on rock music.
The Jimi Hendrix Monterey Strat.
2. Jimi Hendrix’s Monterey Stratocaster
Jimi Hendrix‘s performance at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967 is one of the most legendary moments in rock history. Hendrix closed his set by setting his Fender Stratocaster on fire, creating an unforgettable image that encapsulated the spirit of the era.
The Monterey Performance
Hendrix’s Monterey Stratocaster was painted with psychedelic designs, reflecting the vibrant culture of the 1960s. The guitar’s sacrificial end was a statement of Hendrix’s theatrical performance style and his innovative approach to music. The burnt remains of the guitar are now preserved, serving as a testament to Hendrix’s explosive impact on the music world.
Cultural Impact
The Monterey Stratocaster is often cited as one of the most famous guitars because of the bold statement it represented. Hendrix’s performance at Monterey helped solidify his reputation as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, and the image of him setting his guitar on fire has become an iconic symbol of rock and roll rebellion.
Jimmy Page’s ‘Number One’.
3. Jimmy Page’s “Number One” Les Paul
Jimmy Page, the legendary guitarist of Led Zeppelin, is known for his mastery of the Gibson Les Paul. His most famous guitar, known as “Number One,” is a 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard. This instrument is revered for its rich tone and its role in creating some of rock’s most memorable riffs.
The Acquisition of Number One
Page acquired “Number One” in 1969 from Joe Walsh of the Eagles. The guitar quickly became his main instrument and was used extensively during Led Zeppelin’s rise to fame. “Number One” is known for its warm, powerful sound, which helped define the band’s heavy rock sound.
Historic Performances
“Number One” was used in the recording of many of Led Zeppelin’s greatest hits, including “Stairway to Heaven,” “Whole Lotta Love,” and “Kashmir.” The guitar’s distinctive look and sound have made it one of the most recognised instruments in rock history.
B.B. King’s ‘Lucille’.
4. B.B. King’s “Lucille”
B.B. King’s Gibson ES-355, affectionately named “Lucille,” is one of the most iconic guitars in blues music. The name “Lucille” was inspired by a near-death experience King had in a nightclub fire. He ran back into the burning building to save his guitar, which he then named “Lucille” to remind himself never to do something so reckless again.
The Evolution of Lucille
Over the years, King played several guitars named “Lucille.” The most famous version is the custom-built Gibson ES-355, which King used from the late 1960s until his death in 2015. “Lucille” is known for its smooth, rich tone, which was a perfect match for King’s emotive playing style.
Legacy of Lucille
“Lucille” was more than just a guitar; it was a symbol of B.B. King’s deep connection to his music and his roots in the blues. The guitar helped King achieve a distinctive sound that influenced countless musicians and left an indelible mark on the music world.
The Van Halen ‘Frankenstrat’.
5. Eddie Van Halen’s “Frankenstrat”
Eddie Van Halen’s “Frankenstrat” is one of the most unique and innovative guitars in rock history. This custom-built guitar combined elements of a Fender Stratocaster and a Gibson, resulting in a hybrid instrument that perfectly suited Van Halen’s revolutionary playing style.
The Creation of Frankenstrat
Van Halen built the “Frankenstrat” using a body from a Stratocaster and a neck from a Gibson. He painted the guitar with a distinctive red, white, and black striped design, making it instantly recognisable. The guitar featured a single humbucker pickup, which gave it a powerful, cutting tone.
Influence on Rock Music
The “Frankenstrat” was used in the recording of many of Van Halen’s greatest hits, including “Eruption” and “Panama.” The guitar’s innovative design and Van Halen’s virtuosic playing style had a profound impact on the development of rock guitar techniques and inspired generations of musicians.
Brian May’s ‘Red Special’.
6. Brian May’s “Red Special”
Brian May’s “Red Special” is a truly unique instrument, hand-built by May and his father in the early 1960s. This guitar has a distinctive tone and appearance, making it one of the most recognisable guitars in rock music.
Construction and Design
The “Red Special” was constructed using unconventional materials, including wood from an old fireplace and parts from a motorcycle. The guitar features custom-made pickups and a unique switching system, allowing May to produce a wide range of sounds.
Legacy and Impact
Brian May used the “Red Special” throughout his career with Queen, playing it on iconic tracks such as “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You.” The guitar’s distinctive sound and May’s virtuosic playing have made it a symbol of musical creativity and innovation.
The ‘Black Strat’.
7. David Gilmour’s Black Strat
David Gilmour’s Black Strat, a 1969 Fender Stratocaster, is an essential part of Pink Floyd’s sound. This guitar has been used on some of the band’s most famous recordings and live performances.
The Evolution of the Black Strat
Gilmour acquired the Black Strat in 1970, and it has undergone numerous modifications over the years, including changes to the pickups and electronics. These modifications contributed to the guitar’s unique sound, which became a defining element of Pink Floyd’s music.
Historic Recordings
The Black Strat was used in the recording of Pink Floyd’s seminal albums, including “The Dark Side of the Moon,” “Wish You Were Here,” and “The Wall.” Its rich, versatile tone can be heard on tracks like “Comfortably Numb” and “Shine On You Crazy Diamond,” cementing its place in rock history.
The Keith Richards ‘Micawber’ Telecaster.
8. Keith Richards’ Micawber
Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones is known for his distinctive playing style and his favourite guitar, “Micawber,” a 1953 Fender Telecaster. This guitar is integral to Richards’ sound and has become synonymous with his musical identity.
Unique Modifications
Richards’ “Micawber” has been heavily modified, including the addition of a humbucker pickup in the neck position and the removal of the original bridge pickup. These changes give the guitar a thick, powerful tone that is perfect for Richards’ riff-driven playing style.
Signature Songs
“Micawber” has been used on many of The Rolling Stones’ greatest hits, including “Brown Sugar” and “Honky Tonk Women.” The guitar’s raw, gritty sound is a perfect match for Richards’ blues-influenced rock and roll style.
Slash with his ‘Appetite for Destruction’ Les Pauls.
9. Slash’s “Appetite” Les Paul
Slash, the legendary guitarist of Guns N’ Roses, is best known for his “Appetite” Les Paul, which he used during the recording of the band’s debut album, “Appetite for Destruction.”
The Story Behind the Guitar
Contrary to popular belief, the “Appetite” Les Paul is not a vintage Gibson but a replica made by luthier Kris Derrig. Despite this, the guitar has an incredible tone that contributed to the success of “Appetite for Destruction.”
Iconic Performances
Slash used the “Appetite” Les Paul to create some of rock’s most memorable riffs and solos, including those on “Sweet Child O’ Mine” and “Welcome to the Jungle.” The guitar’s searing tone and Slash’s fiery playing style helped define the sound of late 1980s rock.
The SRV Number One.
10. Stevie Ray Vaughan’s “Number One” Stratocaster
Stevie Ray Vaughan’s “Number One” Stratocaster, also known as “First Wife,” is a cornerstone of his blues-rock sound. This 1963 Fender Stratocaster was Vaughan’s main guitar throughout his career.
Characteristics and Modifications
“Number One” features a thick neck and high-output pickups, which contributed to Vaughan’s powerful, expressive playing style. The guitar also has a distinctive look, with its well-worn body and “SRV” initials on the pickguard.
Influence on Blues-Rock
Vaughan used “Number One” on many of his most famous recordings, including “Pride and Joy” and “Texas Flood.” The guitar’s soulful tone and Vaughan’s masterful technique have made it one of the most iconic instruments in blues-rock history.
George Harrison and his ‘Rocky’ Fender Strat.
11. George Harrison’s “Rocky” Stratocaster
George Harrison’s “Rocky” Stratocaster is a psychedelic masterpiece that reflects the cultural changes of the 1960s. This 1961 Fender Stratocaster was hand-painted by Harrison in bright, swirling colours.
Artistic Transformation
Harrison acquired the guitar in 1965 and transformed it into “Rocky” during the height of the psychedelic era. The guitar’s vibrant design made it a visual and musical icon of the time.
Memorable Moments
“Rocky” was used in the recording of several Beatles tracks, including “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds” and “All You Need Is Love.” The guitar’s colorful appearance and Harrison’s innovative playing style have made it a symbol of the 1960s counterculture.
Kurt’s Fender Jaguar.
12. Kurt Cobain’s Jaguar
Kurt Cobain’s Fender Jaguar, a 1965 model, is one of the most famous guitars in alternative rock. This guitar played a key role in the sound of Nirvana, particularly on their breakthrough album “Nevermind.”
Distinctive Features
Cobain’s Jaguar featured custom modifications, including a humbucker pickup in the bridge position and a unique switching system. These changes gave the guitar a raw, edgy sound that was perfect for Nirvana’s grunge aesthetic.
Grunge Anthem
The Jaguar was used extensively on “Nevermind,” including on the iconic track “Smells Like Teen Spirit.” The guitar’s powerful, gritty tone helped define the sound of the 1990s alternative rock movement and remains an enduring symbol of the era.
Tony Iommi and his ‘Monkey’ SG.
13. Tony Iommi’s “Monkey” SG
Tony Iommi’s Gibson SG, affectionately known as “Monkey,” is a cornerstone of heavy metal. This guitar has been synonymous with Black Sabbath’s dark, heavy sound since the band’s inception.
Unique Modifications
Iommi’s “Monkey” SG features custom modifications, including extra-light strings and a zero fret, to accommodate his unique playing style and the fact that he lost the tips of two fingers in an accident. These adjustments allowed him to produce the powerful, sustained notes that characterise Black Sabbath’s music.
Heavy Metal Pioneer
“Monkey” was used on many of Black Sabbath’s classic tracks, including “Paranoid” and “Iron Man.” The guitar’s deep, resonant tone helped define the heavy metal genre and influenced countless guitarists.
Prince and his Cloud guitar.
14. Prince’s “Cloud” Guitar
Prince’s “Cloud” guitar is a custom-built instrument that became one of his trademarks. Known for its distinctive shape and vibrant colors, the “Cloud” guitar is as visually striking as it is musically versatile.
Design and Construction
The “Cloud” guitar was designed by luthier Dave Rusan for Prince’s movie “Purple Rain.” It features a unique, ergonomic design with an extended lower horn and an intricate headstock.
Performance Highlights
Prince used the “Cloud” guitar during many of his performances and recordings, including the iconic “Purple Rain” performance. The guitar’s eye-catching appearance and Prince’s virtuosic playing made it an unforgettable part of his stage persona.
The Gretsch ‘Twang Machine’.
15. Bo Diddley’s “Twang Machine”
Bo Diddley‘s custom-built rectangular guitar, known as the “Twang Machine,” is one of the most unique and recognisable instruments in rock and roll. This guitar is a testament to Diddley’s innovative spirit and distinctive sound.
Custom Design
The “Twang Machine” was designed by Diddley himself and built by various luthiers over the years. Its rectangular body and sharp edges gave it a futuristic look that stood out in the 1950s and 60s.
Rock and Roll Pioneer
Bo Diddley used the “Twang Machine” to create his signature rhythm-and-blues-infused rock and roll sound. Tracks like “Bo Diddley” and “Who Do You Love” showcase the guitar’s unique tone and Diddley’s pioneering musical style.
Old Black.
16. Neil Young’s “Old Black”
Neil Young‘s “Old Black” is a heavily modified 1953 Gibson Les Paul Goldtop, known for its raw, powerful sound. This guitar has been a constant companion throughout Young’s career.
Modifications and Tone
“Old Black” features a P-90 pickup in the bridge position and a Firebird pickup in the neck position. These modifications give the guitar its distinctive, gritty tone, which is perfect for Young’s electric performances.
Classic Performances
Neil Young has used “Old Black” on many of his classic tracks, including “Cinnamon Girl” and “Like a Hurricane.” The guitar’s raw, distorted sound has become a defining element of Young’s electric performances.
Number 9.
17. Pete Townshend’s “Number Nine” Les Paul
Pete Townshend of The Who is known for his aggressive playing style and his penchant for destroying guitars on stage. His “Number Nine” Gibson Les Paul Deluxe is one of the most famous guitars he used.
Stage Presence
“Number Nine” features a distinctive red finish and was heavily modified to withstand Townshend’s energetic performances. The guitar’s powerful sound was a perfect match for The Who’s explosive live shows.
Rock Opera Contributions
Townshend used “Number Nine” during the recording and performances of The Who’s rock opera “Quadrophenia.” The guitar’s robust tone and Townshend’s dynamic playing helped create some of rock’s most memorable live moments.
The Rickenbacker 325.
18. John Lennon’s Rickenbacker 325
John Lennon’s Rickenbacker 325 is one of the most iconic guitars of the early Beatles era. This short-scale guitar, with its distinctive look and jangly sound, became a symbol of the band’s early success.
Early Beatles Era
Lennon acquired the Rickenbacker 325 in Hamburg, Germany, in 1960. The guitar’s compact size and unique tone made it a perfect fit for the Beatles’ early rock and roll sound.
Historic Performances
Lennon played the Rickenbacker 325 during the Beatles’ legendary performances at the Cavern Club and on their early recordings, including hits like “Please Please Me” and “Twist and Shout.” The guitar’s distinctive appearance and sound made it a defining part of the Beatles’ image.
‘The Strat’.
19. The Edge’s “The Strat”
The Edge of U2 is known for his use of a variety of guitars, but his 1973 Fender Stratocaster, known simply as “The Strat,” is one of his most iconic instruments. This guitar has been integral to U2’s sound since the band’s early days.
Signature Sound
“The Strat” features a black finish and a maple neck, with modifications that include a DiMarzio FS-1 bridge pickup. These features contribute to The Edge’s distinctive, chime-like sound, characterised by his use of delay and effects.
Memorable Tracks
The Edge used “The Strat” on many of U2’s most famous tracks, including “New Year’s Day” and “Sunday Bloody Sunday.” The guitar’s bright, cutting tone helped define the band’s anthemic sound and has become a staple of their live performances.
The ‘EET FUK’.
20. James Hetfield’s “EET FUK” Explorer
James Hetfield of Metallica is known for his aggressive playing style and his collection of custom guitars. One of his most famous instruments is the “EET FUK” Explorer, a 1984 Gibson Explorer.
Custom Design
The “EET FUK” Explorer features a white finish with the words “EET FUK” written on the body, reflecting Hetfield’s rebellious attitude. The guitar is equipped with EMG 81 and 60 pickups, providing a powerful, high-gain sound.
Thrash Metal Icon
Hetfield used the “EET FUK” Explorer during the recording and touring of Metallica’s classic albums “Ride the Lightning” and “Master of Puppets.” The guitar’s brutal, aggressive tone is perfect for Metallica’s thrash metal sound and has become a symbol of the band’s relentless energy.
These additional iconic guitars have each contributed to the evolution of rock music in their own unique ways. Their distinctive sounds and the legendary musicians who played them continue to inspire and influence the world of music.
