There are quite a few phenomenal artists out there, putting their unique stamp on the music industry. Many of us admire them, learn from them and try to emulate them in our own ways. Here are a few artists and works that have influenced and moved me over the years.
guitarists (rock)
Jeff Beck - Incredibly expressive and technically versatile
Steve Howe - Most creative and unique sound
Steve Hackett - Tasteful and versatile - an orchestral master
Jimmy Page - Great feel and versatility
Stevie Ray Vaughan, Robin Trower, Eric Clapton - Masters of Blues guitar
Alex Lifeson - Expressive, progressive guitarist
David Gilmour - Incredibly melodic and skilled
Bassists
Jaco Pastorius - Best overall bassist in technique and feel
Tony Levin - Most versatile and experimental rock bassist
Stanley Clarke - Best jazz/funk bassist
Geddy Lee - Talented progressive rock bassist
Keyboardists
Keith Emerson - Incredibly skilled and versatile - The Master!
Rick Wakeman - Versatile and skilled progressive keyboardist
Derek Sherinian - Progressive rock “newcomer”
Herbie Hancock - Versatile jazz and funk and co-creator
of the 70’s funk sound
George Duke - Versatile and skilled funk keyboardist - one of
the few who could keep up with Frank Zappa
Jan Hammer - Skilled fusion keyboardist and guitar emulator
Eddie Jobson - Great progressive and orchestral keyboardist
Chris Clark - One of my new favs touring with Brand X
vocalists
Peter Gabriel - My favorite vocalist of all time. Incredibly
expressive, versatile and rich in character.
Robert Plant - Best rock ‘n roll vocalist - amazing energy and vocal creativity.
Ian Anderson - Gorgeous folk-rock voice, rich in character
Paul Rodgers - Classic rock ‘n roll voice, and still sounding great!
Drummers
Billy Cobham - Incredible technique, speed and precision
Neil Peart - Best rock drummer with amazing technique
John Bonham - Monster drums and understated complexity
Bill Bruford - Fascinating rhythms and incredible feel
Phil Collins - Versatile and polished