While the exact timing of the Guitar World editorial meetings to select the year’s top 20 guitarists may remain a mystery,the buzz surrounding it is unmistakable.
Picture the scene: a flurry of activity as delivery drivers rush in and out, bringing sustenance to the dedicated staff inside.
The office lights shine brightly, illuminating the tense faces of the team-some resorting to aspirin and bourbon to ease the stress of potentially overlooking legends like Tony Iommi, who recently wrapped up his final performance with Black Sabbath and launched a new line of signature humbuckers with Gibson. Then there’s Yvette Young, whose Ibanez Talman graced a movie soundtrack, and who has collaborated with Walrus Audio to create a signature pedal, all while soothing emo fans with her music.
We regret that Nick Johnston, who stepped in as the permanent guitarist for Mastodon following Brent hinds’ passing, didn’t make the final cut. However, after much deliberation, the list is finalized. Here are our top 20 guitarists (and a few guitar duos) for 2025, presented in no particular order.
jake Kiszka & chris Turpin
Jake Kiszka and Chris Turpin’s collaboration, dubbed Mirador, was almost misnamed due to a spelling error-Kiszka intended to call it “Marauder.” However, the name turned out to be fitting. “A mirador is a viewpoint, frequently enough elevated and overlooking a body of water,” Kiszka explained to GW. “This concept resonated with us; Chris, being British, looked to the west for inspiration, while I drew from Eastern influences.Thus, Mirador was born.”
Fortune seems to favor their venture, reminiscent of the legendary rock giants of the late ’60s and ’70s who expanded the horizons of musical creativity. Kiszka and Turpin are inspired by a rich tapestry of roots, blues, and psychedelic sounds, blending them into a unique sonic experience.
Turpin expressed how liberating it felt to be part of a dual-guitar setup for the frist time, stating, “There’s a natural synergy between us, like feathers intertwining.”
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The track Feels Like Gold kicks off Mirador’s self-titled debut album with a raw energy, as if the guitars are emerging from the earth itself, propelled by a groove reminiscent of Headley Grange (and let’s not forget the impeccable production by Dave Cobb).
This project showcases unique instrumentation, featuring Pre-War style acoustics and custom builds adorned with the Mirador logo. Kiszka’s ’61 Les Paul/SG shines especially on the track Roving Blade, where a vintage Vox wah and a Fender Princeton create a jaw-dropping sound in the studio.
In addition, Jake and his brother Sam kiszka made a cameo in the 2025 Dave Cobb-produced Bruce Springsteen biopic, Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere, portraying a fictional band that jams with “Bruce” at the iconic Stone Pony in Asbury Park, New Jersey.
Jake E.Lee
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Jake E. Lee, known as Ozzy Osbourne’s miracle worker, faced a life-altering challenge in October 2024 when he was shot multiple times while walking his beloved dog, Coco. The road to recovery was long and complicated by arthritis, requiring a regimen of strengthening exercises, stretching, and steroid injections.
“The cartilage is basically gone,” he shared with Guitar World. “I’ve had to adapt my playing style, relying more on elbow movement while minimizing wrist action.”
With a lighter pick and a set of .07 gauge strings, he managed to regain his strength just in time to deliver a fitting tribute to his former boss at the Back to the Beginning festival in Birmingham, England, on July 5. He electrified the crowd with renditions of the Ultimate Sin and Shot in the Dark.
While the latter title may seem a bit too on-the-nose, humor is essential in this industry. After all, this is the same guitarist who played alongside Ozzy when he famously forgot the lyrics to War Pigs and instead sang Old MacDonald Had a Farm. Most importantly, Lee has consistently stepped up when Ozzy needed him the most.
spiro Dussias
celebrating the Top Guitarists of 2025
The selection process for Guitar World‘s annual list of the top guitarists is frequently enough shrouded in mystery, but the excitement surrounding it is indeed palpable.
Picture the scene: a flurry of activity as delivery drivers rush in and out, bringing sustenance to the dedicated staff inside.
The office lights shine brightly, illuminating the tense faces of the team-some resorting to aspirin and bourbon to ease the stress of potentially overlooking legends like Tony Iommi, who recently wrapped up his final performance with Black Sabbath and launched a new line of signature humbuckers with Gibson. Then there’s Yvette Young, whose Ibanez Talman graced a movie soundtrack, and who has collaborated with Walrus Audio to create a signature pedal, all while soothing emo fans with her music.
We regret that Nick Johnston, who stepped in as the permanent guitarist for Mastodon following Brent Hinds’ passing, didn’t make the final cut. Though, after much deliberation, the list is finalized. Here are our top 20 guitarists (and a few guitar duos) for 2025, presented in no particular order.
Jake Kiszka & Chris Turpin
Jake kiszka and Chris Turpin’s collaboration, dubbed Mirador, was almost misnamed due to a spelling error-Kiszka intended to call it “Marauder.” However, the name turned out to be fitting.”A mirador is a viewpoint, often elevated and overlooking a body of water,” Kiszka explained to GW. “This concept resonated with us; Chris, being British, looked to the West for inspiration, while I drew from Eastern influences. Thus, Mirador was born.”
Fortune seems to favor their venture, reminiscent of the legendary rock giants of the late ’60s and ’70s who expanded the horizons of musical creativity. Kiszka and Turpin are inspired by a rich tapestry of roots, blues, and psychedelic sounds, blending them into a unique sonic experience.
Turpin expressed how liberating it felt to be part of a dual-guitar setup for the first time, stating, “There’s a natural synergy between us, like feathers intertwining.”
Watch On
Spiro Dussias is a guitarist whose unique economy picking technique leaves audiences in awe. His playing style has sparked countless reaction videos, with viewers often left speechless, reminiscent of the iconic head-exploding scenes from David Cronenberg’s Scanners.
While STEM researchers might analyze his technique more effectively, Dussias himself describes it as “muted sweep picking.”
“It stems from experimenting with the mechanics of economy picking and exploring different angles and muting techniques,” he explained. “many believe that economy picking yields a smoother sound compared to alternate picking, but I’ve been demonstrating the contrary.”
With endorsements from guitarists like Tim Henson and Tosin Abasi, Dussias has built a social media presence filled with astonished reactions from top-tier musicians.
Just listen to his track Negative. It’s a mind-bending blend of neo-shred and sci-fi elements, akin to an arpeggiated signal from a mothership requesting his return. But let’s hope he sticks around a bit longer; Henson has something special planned for him that goes beyond a simple BMX ride under the moonlight.
Tom Morello: The Master Connector
Tom Morello is not just known for his innovative guitar techniques or for blending genres; this year,he earns a spot on our MVP list for his remarkable ability to bring people together. As the musical director for one of the biggest events of the year-arguably the largest metal concert ever-he played a pivotal role in “Metal’s Live Aid,” organized by Sharon osbourne to benefit charity.
Morello assembled an impressive lineup of hard rock and metal legends, and he also showcased his guitar skills by performing classics like Snowblind and Breaking the Law alongside K.K. Downing and jamming with Aerosmith. It would have been rude not to join in! Additionally, he launched his new Fender ‘Arm the homeless’ guitar, further solidifying his impact this year.
Marcus King: The Rising Star
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Marcus King, when at home, often opts for a ukulele or banjo over his guitar, and this eclectic approach is evident in both his songwriting and playing style.
With the support of his six-string partner Drew Smithers on the Marcus King Band’s 2025 studio album,Darling Blue,King’s guitar work is nothing short of exceptional. His playing is never overly demanding; instead, it showcases impeccable feel and note selection. it’s as if his guitar speaks precisely when it needs to, much like a well-timed punchline in a comedy routine.
This year,King has surrounded himself with positive influences,achieving sobriety with the support of his wife and collaborating with notable musicians like Derek trucks,Charlie Starr,and Billy Strings on Darling Blue. He even played Gregg Allman’s iconic Guild Starfire bass during the recording sessions.
As emerging from South Carolina with his grandfather’s ES-345, affectionately named Big Red, King has been poised to become a critically important figure in Southern rock, seamlessly blending elements of soul, R&B, blues, and more into his music. He is not just meeting expectations; he is exceeding them.
Kiki Wong: The Rising Star
Kiki Wong’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. One moment, she was among 10,000 guitarists vying for a spot in the Smashing Pumpkins, and the next, she found herself gracing the cover of Guitar World alongside the band’s frontman, Billy Corgan, as if she had been part of the group from the very beginning.
Wong is a multifaceted musician, recognized as the most metal player in the band, bringing a unique skill set that sets her apart from her peers.
The Evolution of the Smashing Pumpkins
James Iha and Billy corgan have both undergone significant transformations, and as Corgan noted, this diversity is what defines the Smashing Pumpkins.”When you look across the stage, you see James in a suit, I’m in a priest’s robe, Jack is rocking a lumberjack shirt and jeans, and Kiki resembles a cousin of Rob Halford,” he remarked.”and I think, ‘Yep, this is the band.’”
Kiki Wong’s contributions are expanding the musical boundaries of the Pumpkins. Despite their signature sweet melodies and ambitious musical concepts, the band has always embraced sonic intensity. Wong’s aggressive down picking has injected a new level of power into their sound. “With Kiki, we’ve become heavier, which enhances our live performances,” Corgan stated.
noel gallagher: The Comeback Kid
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Every year, there’s always one artist on our MVP list who you might want to wear protective gear while watching live. This year,that honor goes to Pat McCrory,the guitarist for hardcore sensations Turnstile. Recently, he has transitioned from using Les Pauls to a jackson Soloist, a significant upgrade for a band whose live performances are known for their intensity and energy. Expect a crowd filled with keen fans living in the moment.
While hardcore music can sometimes feel insular,Turnstile’s multimedia approach to engaging their audience combines intellect,strength,and soul. If McCrory’s electrifying riffs inspire you to leap off a wedge monitor in celebration, rest assured there will be plenty of fellow fans ready to catch you.
Nigel Tufnel: The Legendary Guitarist
When the news broke that Spinal Tap was reuniting, we sought out the iconic lead guitarist, Nigel Tufnel, to uncover the details behind this highly anticipated reunion. Tufnel had been living a quiet life in northern England, selling cheese and trading guitars, while honing his skills in local pubs, enjoying the warm brown beer.
Though,for Tufnel and his bandmate David St. Hubbins, the upcoming film Spinal Tap II: The End of the Beginning represented a significant musical milestone. They received custom gear from renowned brands like Ernie Ball Music Man, collings, and Marshall.Joe Satriani made headlines by gifting them Ibanez JS-3 signature models, but Tufnel’s new Marshall amp truly stole the spotlight.
“Marshall has crafted an amplifier for me, and if you look at the dials, it now goes to infinity,” he shared with GW. “Just think about that for a moment. Consider infinity-oh my God, that’s literally infinity.”
Stephen Carpenter: The Innovator
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Stephen Carpenter, the innovative guitarist of Deftones, continues to push musical boundaries. His unique style and sound have made a significant impact on the band’s identity, and his latest work is no exception.
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The Smashing Pumpkins: A Unique Ensemble
James Iha and Billy Corgan have both transformed significantly, and as Corgan pointed out, this diversity is what characterizes the Smashing Pumpkins. “When you glance across the stage,you see James in a suit,I’m dressed like a priest,Jack is sporting a lumberjack shirt and jeans,and Kiki resembles a relative of Rob Halford,” he noted. ”And I think, ‘This is the band.’”
Kiki Wong’s musical contributions are broadening the Pumpkins’ sonic landscape. While the band is known for its sweet melodies and ambitious musical concepts, they have always embraced sonic intensity. Wong’s aggressive down picking has injected a new level of power into their sound. “With Kiki, we’ve become heavier, which enhances our live performances,” Corgan stated.
Noel Gallagher: The Comeback Story
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The Smashing Pumpkins: A Unique Ensemble
James Iha and Billy Corgan have both transformed significantly, and as Corgan pointed out, this diversity is what characterizes the Smashing Pumpkins. “When you glance across the stage, you see James in a suit, I’m dressed like a priest, Jack is sporting a lumberjack shirt and jeans, and Kiki resembles a relative of Rob Halford,” he noted. “And I think, ’This is the band.’”
Kiki Wong’s musical contributions are broadening the Pumpkins’ sonic landscape. While the band is known for its sweet melodies and ambitious musical concepts, they have always embraced sonic intensity. Wong’s aggressive down picking has injected a new level of power into their sound. “With Kiki, we’ve become heavier, which enhances our live performances,” Corgan stated.
Noel Gallagher: The Comeback Story
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Daniela “Dany” Villarreal Vélez is a name to remember. The guitarist for The Warning has made waves in the music scene, showcasing her unique approach to guitar playing. Her unconventional tuning methods have become a defining characteristic of the band’s sound. “It’s a baritone guitar, but I have it dropped as well,” she explained. “So the last string is not in B; it’s all the way down to A. For some reason, I always viewed this guitar as a seven-string without the first string.”
This innovative approach has given The Warning’s music a significant weight. Who would have thought that a band that gained fame as teenage sisters covering Enter Sandman would evolve into a powerhouse of riffs as adults?
The Mexican rock trio has grown up in the spotlight, performing alongside major acts like Muse and Royal Blood. Now, they are on the verge of a breakthrough, with Villarreal Vélez’s rhythmic prowess rivaling the gravitational pull of Jupiter.
Maya Delilah: Rising star
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The smashing Pumpkins: A Unique Ensemble
James Iha and Billy Corgan have both undergone significant transformations, and as Corgan noted, this diversity is what defines the Smashing Pumpkins. “If you look across the stage, you see James in a suit, I’m dressed like a priest, Jack is in a lumberjack shirt and jeans, and Kiki resembles a cousin of Rob Halford,” he remarked. “And I think, ’This is the band.’”
Kiki Wong’s contributions are expanding the musical range of the Pumpkins. Despite their signature sweet melodies and ambitious musical concepts, the band has always embraced sonic intensity. Wong’s aggressive down picking has injected a new level of power into their sound. “With Kiki, we’ve become heavier, which enhances our live performances,” Corgan stated.
Noel Gallagher: The Comeback Kid
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Muireann Bradley is a name that has been gaining traction in the music world. The 13-year-old Irish country blues artist first caught attention with her impressive cover of slow Dancing in a Burning Room, which has garnered over a million views on YouTube. While some may have initially dismissed her as just another online sensation, her talent is undeniable.
Raised in a musical habitat, Bradley learned from her father and draws inspiration from legendary blues artists like Reverend Gary Davis and Memphis Minnie. her style reflects a deep connection to the roots of blues music, showcasing a talent that transcends her years. Like Buddy Guy, she is dedicated to preserving the essence of blues.
Maya Delilah: Rising Star
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Buddy Guy, the legendary blues guitarist, continues to defy expectations. Despite hints of retirement,he has been remarkably active in 2025,showcasing his enduring talent on the Damn Right Encore tour! This tour is a testament to his relentless energy and artistic drive.
In conversations, Guy shares stories from his youth in Louisiana, where he first encountered the blues, and reflects on his experiences with icons like Muddy Waters and B.B. King. “They told me, ‘If you outlive me, just try to keep the blues alive,’” he recounted, emphasizing his commitment to the genre.
This year, Guy has not only been performing but also making waves in the film industry, appearing in Ryan Coogler’s hit movie Sinner, alongside fellow blues artists Christone “kingfish” Ingram and bobby Rush. Additionally, he released a new studio album titled Ain’t Done with the Blues, further solidifying his legacy.
Muireann Bradley: The Rising Star
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Muireann Bradley: A Rising Star in Blues
Muireann Bradley embraces her musical journey with grace, utilizing open tunings in her performances. Her fingerstyle technique is reminiscent of folk music, yet as Keb’ Mo’ aptly states, blues and folk share a common lineage. Bradley often plays on her father’s waterloo WL-S Deluxe and WL-14 X, modern reproductions of vintage guitars from the 1920s and 1930s.
Recently signed by decca, she released an expanded edition of her debut album, I Kept These Old Blues, which includes a remarkable version of “When the Levee Breaks,” returning it to its roots before Led Zeppelin’s iconic rendition.
“Many people don’t realise that the original was penned by Memphis Minnie and Kansas Joe McCoy,” she remarked. “I have a deep admiration for Memphis Minnie; she was an extraordinary guitarist and songwriter. Another version that greatly influenced me is by Philadelphia musician Ari Eisinger.” This December, Bradley will celebrate her 19th birthday.
Tim Henson: The Innovator
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Tim Henson of Polyphia has always been known for his intricate and challenging sound, making it difficult to envision how their music would translate in live settings, especially in front of smaller audiences compared to their online presence.Henson and Scott LePage create what can be described as “high-details music,” a term coined by their collaborator, the legendary Steve Vai. Henson acknowledged that performing in stadiums and at major European festivals has prompted them to rethink their sound for larger crowds.
“It was really like, ‘Oh, we’re playing Playing God to 80,000 people. And I have no idea what this sounds like to the 55,000th person way in the back there!’” Henson shared.”It made us realize, like, ‘Hey, we should start composing for it to work in these situations of 80,000-plus people.’ So we’re trying to, obviously, bring more energy by making it heavier.”
Henson’s approach involves utilizing eight-string guitars and baritones, fundamentally rethinking the instrument. “We’re just creating new guitars that don’t exist for the sole purpose of writing something really, really cool,” he explained.
As for his recent activities, Henson has been incredibly busy, collaborating with Babymetal, working with Hans Zimmer on a score for Formula 1, and performing alongside System of a Down at stadium shows. He’s also preparing for his solo album and Polyphia’s next project,which will feature SOAD’s frontman Serj Tankian. The question remains: how much creative energy dose henson have left in his remarkable mind?
Hester Chambers & Rhian Teasdale: The Dynamic Duo
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Tim Henson of Polyphia has always been known for his intricate and challenging sound, making it difficult to envision how their music would translate in live settings, especially in front of smaller audiences compared to their online presence. Henson and Scott LePage create what can be described as “high-information music,” a term coined by their collaborator, the legendary Steve Vai. Henson acknowledged that performing in stadiums and at major European festivals has prompted them to rethink their sound for larger crowds.
“It was really like, ‘Oh, we’re playing Playing God to 80,000 people. And I have no idea what this sounds like to the 55,000th person way in the back there!’” Henson shared. “It made us realize, like, ‘Hey, we should start composing for it to work in these situations of 80,000-plus people.’ So we’re trying to,obviously,bring more energy by making it heavier.”
Henson’s approach involves utilizing eight-string guitars and baritones, fundamentally rethinking the instrument. “We’re just creating new guitars that don’t exist for the sole purpose of writing something really, really cool,” he explained.
As for his recent activities, Henson has been incredibly busy, collaborating with Babymetal, working with Hans Zimmer on a score for Formula 1, and performing alongside System of a down at stadium shows. He’s also preparing for his solo album and Polyphia’s next project, which will feature SOAD’s frontman Serj tankian. The question remains: how much creative energy does henson have left in his remarkable mind?
Hester Chambers & Rhian Teasdale: The Dynamic Duo
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Wet Leg has captured the essence of indie rock, embracing their unique identity and enjoying the surreal experience of their success. They evoke a modern-day Devo, combining lo-fi aesthetics with high-energy performances that resonate with both niche and mainstream audiences.
“She’s not restricted,not like,’Oh,I need to learn these chords to create this song.’ She just plays around,”
hester Chambers
At the heart of the band is Hester Chambers, who takes on the role of rhythm guitarist, skillfully wielding a Kramer Jersey Star. Meanwhile, Rhian Teasdale, the dynamic frontwoman, commands attention with her vibrant, see-through acrylic B.C. Rich Mockingbird.
Teasdale’s journey with the guitar began only after the band formed, and she approached it with the enthusiasm of a novice and the intent of a seasoned musician. This combination has led to the creation of their sophomore album, Moisturizer, which showcases their growth and creativity.
“she has a gorgeous way of playing and writing,” Chambers noted. “She’s not limited by traditional expectations; she simply explores.”
Strumming to Stardom: Meet Guitar World’s 2025 Guitarists of the Year!
2025 Guitarists of the Year Overview
Every year,guitar World celebrates the most talented guitarists who have made significant contributions to the music industry. The 2025 Guitarists of the Year showcase a diverse range of styles, techniques, and influences that continue to inspire musicians and fans alike. Here’s a closer look at this year’s honorees.
Featured Guitarists
1. Kiki Wong
Kiki Wong has emerged as a powerhouse in the rock scene,known for her electrifying performances and innovative guitar techniques. Her ability to blend heavy riffs with melodic lines has given the Smashing Pumpkins a fresh sound.
- Style: Heavy rock with melodic undertones
- Notable Achievements: Contributed to the Pumpkins’ latest album, enhancing their live performances with her unique down picking technique.
2. Jake Kiszka
As a member of Greta Van Fleet, Jake Kiszka has captivated audiences with his classic rock-inspired guitar work. His vintage sound and stage presence have made him a standout performer.
- Style: Classic rock with a modern twist
- Notable Achievements: Helped the band achieve multiple Grammy nominations and sold-out tours.
3. tim Henson
Tim Henson of polyphia is known for his intricate compositions and technical prowess. His innovative approach to guitar playing has redefined modern instrumental music.
- Style: Progressive rock with elements of hip-hop and electronic music
- Notable Achievements: Collaborated with various artists and contributed to the band’s critically acclaimed albums.
4. Buddy Guy
Legendary blues guitarist Buddy Guy continues to inspire new generations with his raw talent and passion for music. His contributions to the blues genre are unparalleled.
- Style: customary blues with a contemporary edge
- Notable Achievements: Multiple grammy Awards and a significant influence on countless musicians.
5. Muireann Bradley
At just 19, Muireann Bradley is making waves in the blues scene. Her fingerstyle technique and deep understanding of the genre have garnered her a dedicated following.
- Style: Country blues with a modern flair
- Notable Achievements: Released her debut album, I Kept Thes Old Blues, to critical acclaim.
Benefits of Following These Guitarists
Learning from the styles and techniques of these top guitarists can provide numerous benefits:
- Inspiration: Their unique approaches can inspire your own playing style.
- Technique Improvement: Observing their techniques can definitely help you refine your skills.
- Networking Opportunities: Engaging with their music can connect you with other fans and musicians.
Practical Tips for Aspiring Guitarists
Here are some practical tips to help you on your journey to becoming a successful guitarist:
- Practice Regularly: Consistency is key. Set aside time each day to practice your skills.
- Explore Different Genres: Don’t limit yourself to one style. Experimenting with various genres can enhance your versatility.
- Learn from the Greats: Study the techniques of your favourite guitarists and try to incorporate their styles into your playing.
- Collaborate with Others: Playing with other musicians can provide new insights and improve your skills.
- Stay Inspired: Attend concerts,watch live performances,and engage with the music community to keep your passion alive.
Case Studies: Success Stories
| Guitarist | Style | Notable Work |
|---|---|---|
| kiki Wong | Heavy Rock | Smashing Pumpkins’ Latest Album |
| Jake Kiszka | Classic Rock | Greta Van Fleet’s Grammy Nominations |
| Tim Henson | progressive Rock | Polyphia’s Instrumental Albums |
| Buddy Guy | Blues | Influential Blues Recordings |
| Muireann Bradley | country Blues | Debut Album: I Kept These Old Blues |
First-Hand Experiences
Many aspiring guitarists have shared their experiences learning from these top musicians:
“Watching Kiki Wong perform live was a game-changer for me. Her energy and technique inspired me to push my own boundaries.”
– Aspiring Guitarist
“Tim Henson’s unique sound made me rethink my approach to guitar. I started experimenting with different tunings and techniques after seeing him live.”
– Music Student
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