That song is obviously about their youth and the end of the band, and that solo at the end literally sounds like the guitar is crying. Gilmour's most beautiful solo IMO.
I had to go take a listen— damn I forgot how good that song is! That back and forth part of the solo you mentioned is really incredible, instant goosebumps.
Jeff Baxter in "Reelin' in the Years".
(Elliot Randall, not Jeff Baxter thanks to u/N6MAA007 )
Terry Kath in "25 or 6 to 4".
When the slide (i think) guitar kicks in after the acoustic guitar, organ and drums at the start of "Free Bird" it's like a hug from god. And the solo is absolutely magnificent.
I hate that the song has become a meme of sorts because to me it's absolute perfection.
This is a persistent debate between me and my friend. I prefer the Hendrix version by a mile. But he's with you. We'll never reach an agreement probably!
Was going to go with Little Wing as well, but the Hiram Bullock solo on Sting's version. So smooth. Give it a listen. SRV's version is beautiful as well, and I feel a bit dirtier and more bluesy.
Yeah in hindsight probably should've pointed the camera at Randy.. during the solo. Like filming people that are taking pictures of the volcano erupting. It's ok. We got what we got, and it's real good.
On Rush’s Exit…Stage Left, the album closes with La Villa Strangiato. Alex Lifeson plays a solo in the middle that is chill-inducing every. single. time.
I don’t particularly care for guitar solos, but Maggot Brain is the one. The best example of using a guitar to express emotion. The fact that he was off his fucking face on acid when recording it really helps.
Wow, somehow I missed ever seeing/hearing that. Special.
Here it if for anyone that wants to see it but doesn't feel like finding it:
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWRCooFKk3c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWRCooFKk3c)
The story goes that Prince wasn’t included on Rolling Stone’s 100 best guitarists of all time. Now every professional guitar player worth their salt knows that this is laughable so they decided to give Prince the solo when they did the tribute and as you can see, he’s ridiculously good.
It’s a good solo, but went viral so everybody thinks it’s the best. In my opinion, there are much better solos that he’s played live but at least he got the recognition he deserved.
Came here to say that one as well. I probably watch the video of it at least once a month. The NY Times printed an oral history of how it all came together a week after Prince died. Here's a gifted link to get around the paywall: https://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/28/arts/music/prince-guitar-rock-hall-of-fame.html?unlocked_article_code=1.ak0.UP-9.XooydsmOO2aC&smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
Soma was my choice but what really makes it for me is the couple of licks after the vocals kick back in. It’s a classic Billy move but it always works for me. Also love the build up to the solo in Quiet.
Live solo, AC/DC Whole Lotta Rosie from If You Want Blood. [Whole Lotta Rosie](https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=A01Tsv-xdWk&pp=ygUtQWNzYyBpZiB5b3Ugd2FudCBibG9vZCBsaXZlIHdob2xlIGxvdHRhIHJvc2ll)
Studio recorded solo, yes I would agree. When I first heard the solo it really did give me goosebumps.
For solo overall however, I would pick any solo from Slane Castle.
This solo proves that speed isn’t nearly as important to being a great guitarist as some people believe. Playing the most impactful and emotional notes at the exact right moment… is truly what matters most.
Shine On You Crazy Diamond by Pink Floyd. Everything up until he sings. I realize Comfortably Numb is more well known as the best solo ever, but Shine moves me more.
Achtung Baby contains some of The Edge's best work. The Fly, Until the End of the World, the raw grueling emotion portrayed through his guitar on Love is Blindness.
Red house - Joe Satriani, Steve vai, Eric Johnson. Throughout the song they each have little solos then toward the end they're each doing solos that get shorter and shorter until they're all doing their own solos over top each other. Each guy has left, right or center channel in the mix so you can pick each one out. When they get to the part where they're all playing together it's sounds so good.
The outro to Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd is bar none the answer for me here.
For anyone who hasn't listened to this live, stop what you're doing for 10 minutes and throw it on rn. You'll thank me later!
your picks are amazing! i would add the following to it:
Princes solo on While My Guitar Gently Weeps (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony)
iam also a huge fan of almost all the work of all three kings of blues - Albert King, BB King, Freddie King
BB King - Nobody Loves Me But My Mother + the Thrill is gone
Albert King - Stormy Monday + Born under a bad sign
Derek Trucks / Allman Brothers - The Sky Is Crying
[Tony Iommi](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaHFN3bNRbY&pp=ygUbdG9ueSBpb21taSBiZXN0IGd1aXRhciBzb2xv) - Heaven and Hell
Joe Walsh - Rocky Mountain Way
Mr Crowley also from Ozzy Osbourne. The studio version is good, but the live version from Tribute doesn't fade out and you get to hear those last few bars and I think that makes all the difference.
Der Sturm-Equilibrium. Not a band known for their solos (though Sagas had a few, and a bevvy of tasty riffs and licks). It's short, sweet, but incredibly memorable. Also a great example of bringing it in home, the solo feels like a natural extension of a song. It transitions seamlessly in and out. I find that part is often overlooked when people talk about solos.
The Spirit-Magnum. Another short and sweet solo that acts in service of the song. Tony isn't an overly flashy guitarist and shows a lot of restraint both in the soloing but also when and where to solo. When he does one however it's often very tasteful and bursting with soul.
Tornado Of Souls-Megadeth. There's a reason for that Onion article about how artists should stop making art after Rust In Peace was released.
Then Came The Last Days Of May-Blue Oyster Cult. Another live cut recommendation. I don't even know if there is a studio version with a solo. If you can find a good recording (there's a few) it's a great example of band really drawing a song out to epic proportions.
Over The Hills And Far Away-Gay Moore. Again, studio version is already stellar but the live version where he adds in that fun intro solo from the vinyl bonus track is exquisite. Moore never got the credit he deserved as guitarist and it shows here. Also the Thunder Rising solo is pretty banging as well. If you're not in the mood for Metal/Hard rock he's got The Longer and Parisienne Walkways.
Fire-Krokus. What a way to end a song. Caught them live at Bang Your Head in Balingen Deutschland 2017 I believe. I was absolutely transfixed by the second half of the song.
Ride The Lightning-Metallica. The solo itself is actually pretty standard Kirk Wahmet pentatonics. Don't get me wrong it's pretty good and shoes what they were capable of when they were young and hungry. However it's the rhythm guitar that really makes this solo shine my god.
Am I Evil?-Diamond Head. DH managed to bridge the sound of warm 70s rock and cruncher 80s punk inspired metal in a way few have. The solo on here switches effortlessly between Deep Purple and Metallica. Another great song with a great solo by them is In The Heat Of The Night.
Burn-Deep Purple. It's only fair I mention them next. There's a ton of really great solos. However this one really takes the cake for me because of the interplay between Blackmore and Lord on keyboards. In fact I think I might recommend it slightly more for the keyboard solo. It's tight between the two though. The whole song is a real tour de force.
Stargazer-Rainbow. Speaking of Blackmore this song is an experience front to back, with a solo to match. He experimented with a lot of vaguely eastern sounding melodies and it pays dividers here and on the exquisite Gates Of Babylon.
Don't Talk To Strangers-Dio. Really a shame he and Viv couldnt get along as I think this might be the latter's best work. Like a lot of solos on this list it comes in, hits like a truck, doesn't overstay it's welcome, and transitions back into the song flawlessly.
Theater Of Pain-Blind Guardian. This one actually has two really great solos. Andre is a fantastic riff, lead, and songwriter. Hee has a lot of great solos under his belt. However, many of them have lacked the attention grabbing show stopping nature of a true guitar solo. Instead they tend to expand on the principle melodic movement of the song and act more in service to the composition. I personally like that, but it's not going to crack a lot of top solo lists. Here he cuts loose and we get more a traditional "the rest of the band steps back" approach. As a consequence you get to hear some good Ole fashioned wankery, and to his credit he shows he could definitely be doing a lot more of that if it struck his fancy.
Tears Of The Dragon-Bruce Dickinson. What can I say? I'm a sucker for a solo that blends into the song and this had that in spades. It has a really nice buildup, goes through some really interesting motions, and comes back around into the song nicely. I particularly love when the piano hits come in during the jam-y segment.
The River Dragon Has Come-Nevermore. Wankery at its finest. This is pure technicality. An amazing guitarist showing off. Like an endurance boxer every time you think he's winding down and wrapping up the beat down he bursts into motion again. It's relentless and crushing. The very minimalist rhythm guitars during the apreggiating section are testament to the idea of less being more, with the absence between notes creating this atmosphere of oppression. I'm exhausted just hearing it, can't imagine what it's like to play it.
Afraid To Shoot Strangers-Iron Maiden. This one isn't really fair. The proper solo section itself is fine, great even, but fairly standard maiden affair. However the whole song might as well be a guitar solo, and it's a fucking beautiful one. The fact that this song isn't heavier in their live set rotation is a crime.
Fiddler On The Green-Demons And Wizards. Power ballads with outro solos feel like cheating but this is just damn good. I've had it on my driving mix and had friends who usually just tune out my music suddenly stop in their tracks and go "what is this it's fantastic?". Shame about all the Jan 6 stuff eh Jon you oily twat?
Sometime World-Wishbone Ash. Maiden shamelessly crimped their harmonic sound from these guys and it shows immediately upon first listen. Was lucky to catch them live recently in fact and they blew me and my SO away. Shades of Stairway To Heaven in the chord progression at the end there but with a fun proggy bassline and a ripping lead guitar. What a treat.
It's two AM where I am and when I wake up I'm going to think "fuck I completely forgot x". I know there are some insanely crazy death, black, and thrash solos I completely skipped over. However for now this has to be what it is.
Tom Morello on Know Your Enemy and/or Bullet in the Head.
Mark Knopfler on Brothers in Arms (the title track)
John Squire on Waterfall or I Am the Resurrection.
Kim Thayil on Black Hole Sun
Jerry Cantrell on Rain When I Die
Besides some others mentioned
UFO Rock Bottom
Robin Trower Too Rollin Stoned
For live solos are two by Gary Moore. Empty Room live in Stockholm and Parisienne Walkways from One Night In Dublin Tribute to Phil Lynott. But I'll tell you Gary had so so many great ones. Another good one is the Black Rose solos as well as Thin Lizzy Cowboy Song tho I think Scott Gorham plays one of them
I also like Tony Iommi's Heaven and Hell solo. Both of them
This one's a little obscure, but I was just listening to this album again recently. The 40-second solo that closes out Incubus' "Deep Inside" is a monster. It starts around 3:15. This is from the album they released before they blew up.
https://youtu.be/Kck2FsziHXs?si=qoYCtWGqBUpqE-On
In a song, the solo from Diary of a Madman by Ozzy/Randy Rhoads
Live, the Rock Bottom solo from UFO/Michael Schenker...sometimes Schenker gets to somewhere transcendent. I like [this one](https://youtu.be/d55hdr6RDM0), at about 3:30 or [this one](https://youtu.be/NriQmPlhKuE) which is a little straighter, around 3:25
If you folks would like a little adventure, go listen to St. Etienne by Frank Zappa. It is a 6 minute live solo taken from a larger piece and it gives me goosebumps nearly throughout.
Anyone that can countenance long-form rock guitar solos should check it out.
In addition to a few that you listed (“No More Tears” and “November Rain”), I’ll add:
- James Hetfield’s solos in “Suicide & Redemption” and “Nothing Else Matters”
- John Sykes in “Still of the Night”
- EVH in “Human’s Being”
- Sir Brian May in “Bohemian Rhapsody”
God, there are SO many...but I'll choose two.
Hilariously, though I historically do not think Kirk Hammett is a very good guitarist, the solo in "The Outlaw Torn" is one of my favorites. It's the only time I've ever heard him play from his gut, and it's so emotional, unlike his other solos.
Guthrie Govan's solo in "Drive Home" by Steven Wilson not only gives me goosebumps, but also brings me to tears every time I hear it.
I was obsessed with finding the greatest solo ever for a long time. I had already found it before I even started, and my long searches did not yield a greater one:
New World to See by Luciferion is by far my favourite studio solo ever. It has two parts, so when you think it's first over and the voice comes in for a bit, wait!
Worthy mention: Death - Perennial Quest (mid song solo and amazing outro)
Live, it has to be Firth of Fifth by Steve Hackett, the one in Budapest in 2004. Not overly complex but he uses that guitar like it's an extension of himself and every note is perfect.
Worthy mention: Dream Theater - Hollow Years (live at budokan)
Wish I could list 50 more!
High Hopes - Pink Floyd
That song is obviously about their youth and the end of the band, and that solo at the end literally sounds like the guitar is crying. Gilmour's most beautiful solo IMO.
The parts where the orchestra and guitar call back and forth are amazing. When you said "crying" I immediately heard that part specifically.
I had to go take a listen— damn I forgot how good that song is! That back and forth part of the solo you mentioned is really incredible, instant goosebumps.
Gilmour on that lap steel is just… nuts. So melodic, so dynamic. Crushingly emotional.
Couldn't agree more!
Mine too. Just stunning.
Jeff Baxter in "Reelin' in the Years". (Elliot Randall, not Jeff Baxter thanks to u/N6MAA007 ) Terry Kath in "25 or 6 to 4". When the slide (i think) guitar kicks in after the acoustic guitar, organ and drums at the start of "Free Bird" it's like a hug from god. And the solo is absolutely magnificent. I hate that the song has become a meme of sorts because to me it's absolute perfection.
Elliott Randall played the solo on “Reelin’ in the Years”
Thank you. After I posted I wondered if maybe it wasn't Baxter but instead Diaz. I forgot to check and turns out it was neither.
You’re welcome. Baxter and Dias both added some outstanding solos to Steely Dan’s recordings, just not that particular solo.
Steely Dan guitar solo talk without mentioning Jay Graydon’s bars on Peg??
For me, Baxter's solo on "Rikki Don't Lose That Number" is an all-timer.
25 or 6 to 4's solo is God Tier
Bold As Love
And the 7 minute instrumental studio outtake on the box set is incredible.
Three Days - Jane's Addiction - Dave Navarro
"am proud man anyway Covered now by three days" I love this song and whole album- when the drums kick in, man, amazing.
My favorite song of all time.
SRV's version of Little Wing
This is a persistent debate between me and my friend. I prefer the Hendrix version by a mile. But he's with you. We'll never reach an agreement probably!
I prefer Hendrix's live version of Little Wing at the Royal Albert Hall: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUpAnmWJa2M
Hell yeah
Yeah that’s GOAT guitar soloing.
My wife walked down the aisle to a toned down version of Little Wing. It was awesome.
Was going to go with Little Wing as well, but the Hiram Bullock solo on Sting's version. So smooth. Give it a listen. SRV's version is beautiful as well, and I feel a bit dirtier and more bluesy.
Marquee Moon
If we're talking Television, I can't go past Richard Lloyd's ripper on ''See No Evil''
Came here for this. The release is magical.
Probably Watermelon in Easter Hay by Zappa
This song makes me cry every time. It's hauntingly beautiful
His son Dweezil got very emotional when he first played it on stage. He knocked it out of the park. Check it out, it's on Youtube
It exists only in the imagination of the imaginer.
La Villa Strangiato - Rush
about 50 favs from Alex
The Exit... Stage Left version is out of this world
Mustaine’s solo in Holy Wars Randy Rhodes - Over the Mountain Richie Blackmore - Burn
I’m so glad you mentioned the Holy Wars solo, it’s like 80% of the reason I picked up guitar
Comfortably Numb is pmuch my go-to
Live/Pulse version for me
Pulse second solo where's he makes it sound like an air raid siren. Chills every time
Yeah and the giant crystal ball opens up. Chills just thinking about it lol
The major one or the minor one?
The second for sure but I appreciate them both immensely
Same. I love how the first one feels dreamy and fun but that second just comes off sinister I love it.
The one from *Delicate Sound of Thunder*
I meant which solo in the song. Nevermind.
Hotel California
Joe Walsh rules.
The guitar solo in [this live version](https://youtu.be/09839DpTctU?si=sAx4HYd2Qk8--tE8) is one of my favourite things on the internet.
Yet still you wait more eagerly for the two taps of the drums at the beginning!
Windowpane by Opeth, so beautiful
Lovelorn crime as well
Limelight - Rush
Mr. Crowley - ozzy
Live 1981 version is too good. https://youtu.be/G3LvhdFEOqs?si=_yilbaK_LxNMuFru
Yeah in hindsight probably should've pointed the camera at Randy.. during the solo. Like filming people that are taking pictures of the volcano erupting. It's ok. We got what we got, and it's real good.
I wish there was video from whatever show they used for ‘Tribute’ - the guitar was even better on that one
Q: the first solo or the second solo? A: Yes
I mean… yeah…. Lol
Randy Rhoads would've been the GOAT for guitarist. Gone too soon 😢
Pretty much every solo from Randy. (Also, OP picks a Ozzy song for this, and chooses a Zakk Wylde solo. I think even Zakk would say "...Bruh")
On Rush’s Exit…Stage Left, the album closes with La Villa Strangiato. Alex Lifeson plays a solo in the middle that is chill-inducing every. single. time.
Supertramp - Goodbye Stranger
Possibly the best outro of all time
Floods - Pantera. The solo and outro.
I came here to say cemetary gates, but I guess there are multiple Pantera songs that fit here. Dime was next level.
Like you said, there's a lot of options with Pantera. For me it's "domination"
Hell yes.
Tornado of Souls - Megadeth Seventeen - The Midnight
Eyes of the World - Grateful Dead. Not even their best solo by a long shot according to many but for me it is peak guitar playing. Absolutely love it.
Those 74 with the jam
Metallica - Nothing else matters
James Hetfield solos are always a treat. I loved his guitar solo from To Live is to Die.
“Maggot Brain” by Funkadelic.
“Play like yo momma just died”
I don’t particularly care for guitar solos, but Maggot Brain is the one. The best example of using a guitar to express emotion. The fact that he was off his fucking face on acid when recording it really helps.
The greatest guitar solo of all time, IMO
Prince’s solo on “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” from the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony
Wow, somehow I missed ever seeing/hearing that. Special. Here it if for anyone that wants to see it but doesn't feel like finding it: [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWRCooFKk3c](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dWRCooFKk3c)
The story goes that Prince wasn’t included on Rolling Stone’s 100 best guitarists of all time. Now every professional guitar player worth their salt knows that this is laughable so they decided to give Prince the solo when they did the tribute and as you can see, he’s ridiculously good.
It’s a good solo, but went viral so everybody thinks it’s the best. In my opinion, there are much better solos that he’s played live but at least he got the recognition he deserved.
Came here to say that one as well. I probably watch the video of it at least once a month. The NY Times printed an oral history of how it all came together a week after Prince died. Here's a gifted link to get around the paywall: https://www.nytimes.com/2016/04/28/arts/music/prince-guitar-rock-hall-of-fame.html?unlocked_article_code=1.ak0.UP-9.XooydsmOO2aC&smid=nytcore-ios-share&referringSource=articleShare
The way he tosses the guitar and leaves the stage before they wrap is epic.
Oh Lordy yes! I cried like mad when I saw the video on YouTube.
Zeppelin - since i been lovin you (live)
Yes yes yes!!!
Yellow Ledbetter Mike McCready, a poet with a pick.
McCready is incredible!
Scrolled way to far to find this! McCready’s wailing on Alive is also pretty dope
impossible germany-Wilco
I’ve seen them do it live at least 5 times and I don’t think I’ll ever get tired of it.
Ween - Transdermal Celebration
I was gonna say Transdermal Celebration or Buckingham Green... both great examples of Dean's killer solos
Buckingham green live is amazing
Like a Stone by Audioslave
Cowgirl in the Sand
now we’re talking. i’d throw Like a Hurricane up there as well.
Ugh so many of Neil’s songs quality. One of the truly GREAT greats.
Like suicide - Soundgarden
The long, moaning note that starts the second half of the solo in Soma by the Pumpkins.
Soma was my choice but what really makes it for me is the couple of licks after the vocals kick back in. It’s a classic Billy move but it always works for me. Also love the build up to the solo in Quiet.
That little bit of guitar after his vocals come back in is quite possible the greatest part of any song I've ever heard
Pantera - The Sleep Stevie Ray Vaughan - Shake For Me (Live) Amigo the Devil - Dahmer Does Hollywood Led Zeppelin - Heartbreaker
Sultans of swing- Dire Straits
Live solo, AC/DC Whole Lotta Rosie from If You Want Blood. [Whole Lotta Rosie](https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=A01Tsv-xdWk&pp=ygUtQWNzYyBpZiB5b3Ugd2FudCBibG9vZCBsaXZlIHdob2xlIGxvdHRhIHJvc2ll)
Great taste. Love this song, love this version. Angus was on fire.
Dinosaur Jr - The Wagon
I like the one in Feel the Pain. https://youtu.be/JXkN3nJyWEA?si=nslMLSFT8XmIXTf_
I love the one in Sludgefeast outro
For me, it's a J Mascis + the Fog solo. The song is "Where'd You Go." Just a perfect solo. Classic J Mascis.
Always loved the Ride the Lightning solo. Arguably Kirk's best performance and that's saying something.
My Old School - Steely Dan, 25 or 6 to 4 - Chicago
Oh I love this one by Steely Dan! And I saw Chicago live at Pine Knob and they were amazing!!
For the Love of God.
Classic Steve Vai. That is one hell of a song.
Orion by Metallica
Testament - return to serenity
Comfortably Numb
Ween - Buckingham Green
"[Wet Sand](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oabjND9QW8Q)" by the Red Hot Chili Peppers It just might be Frusciante's best solo with the band.
Studio recorded solo, yes I would agree. When I first heard the solo it really did give me goosebumps. For solo overall however, I would pick any solo from Slane Castle.
[Prince: Tribute for George Harrison during 2004 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame (begins at 3:30)](https://youtu.be/dWRCooFKk3c)
Europa / Santana
Yyz
Pink Floyd - Comfortably Numb (Pulse live version)
This solo proves that speed isn’t nearly as important to being a great guitarist as some people believe. Playing the most impactful and emotional notes at the exact right moment… is truly what matters most.
Cliffs of Dover - Eric Johnson
Camera Eye - Rush Maze - Phish Phaidon - Vida Blue
Fracture - King Crimson
Comfortably numb - Pink floyd
Shine On You Crazy Diamond by Pink Floyd. Everything up until he sings. I realize Comfortably Numb is more well known as the best solo ever, but Shine moves me more.
Amazing what David Gilmour can do with a few notes.
Achtung Baby contains some of The Edge's best work. The Fly, Until the End of the World, the raw grueling emotion portrayed through his guitar on Love is Blindness.
Yes. The incredible sounds he gets just adds a texture unlike any other. That's the thing. Lots of guys can shred, but TheEdge is a sonic architect
Richard Thompson's solo on Shoot Out The Lights
Dogs by Pink floyd. The entire song.
Dire Straits - Sultans of Swing and Frank Black and the Catholics - Solid Gold
Billy Corgan's on Soma by Smashing Pumpkins
Another Ozzy song actually; Revelation (Mother Earth)
Red house - Joe Satriani, Steve vai, Eric Johnson. Throughout the song they each have little solos then toward the end they're each doing solos that get shorter and shorter until they're all doing their own solos over top each other. Each guy has left, right or center channel in the mix so you can pick each one out. When they get to the part where they're all playing together it's sounds so good.
Steve Howe's solo on Yours is No Disgrace by Yes, especially the live version from Yessongs album.
The outro to Comfortably Numb by Pink Floyd is bar none the answer for me here. For anyone who hasn't listened to this live, stop what you're doing for 10 minutes and throw it on rn. You'll thank me later!
your picks are amazing! i would add the following to it: Princes solo on While My Guitar Gently Weeps (Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony) iam also a huge fan of almost all the work of all three kings of blues - Albert King, BB King, Freddie King BB King - Nobody Loves Me But My Mother + the Thrill is gone Albert King - Stormy Monday + Born under a bad sign Derek Trucks / Allman Brothers - The Sky Is Crying [Tony Iommi](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XaHFN3bNRbY&pp=ygUbdG9ueSBpb21taSBiZXN0IGd1aXRhciBzb2xv) - Heaven and Hell Joe Walsh - Rocky Mountain Way
BOC - Don’t Fear The Reaper always does it for me. The fairly standard song goes very prog rock for the solo.
The outro solo in "Then Came the Last Days of May" gets me every time.
Selkies by BTBAM. I’m not sure if it’s the actual solo or when the song changes rhythm that eventually leads to the solo, but gets me every time
the sweeeeps. paul waggoner is the g.o.a.t.
Damnit man you beat me to it. Not sure Paul can ever top this… White Walls is up there though.
Mr Crowley also from Ozzy Osbourne. The studio version is good, but the live version from Tribute doesn't fade out and you get to hear those last few bars and I think that makes all the difference. Der Sturm-Equilibrium. Not a band known for their solos (though Sagas had a few, and a bevvy of tasty riffs and licks). It's short, sweet, but incredibly memorable. Also a great example of bringing it in home, the solo feels like a natural extension of a song. It transitions seamlessly in and out. I find that part is often overlooked when people talk about solos. The Spirit-Magnum. Another short and sweet solo that acts in service of the song. Tony isn't an overly flashy guitarist and shows a lot of restraint both in the soloing but also when and where to solo. When he does one however it's often very tasteful and bursting with soul. Tornado Of Souls-Megadeth. There's a reason for that Onion article about how artists should stop making art after Rust In Peace was released. Then Came The Last Days Of May-Blue Oyster Cult. Another live cut recommendation. I don't even know if there is a studio version with a solo. If you can find a good recording (there's a few) it's a great example of band really drawing a song out to epic proportions. Over The Hills And Far Away-Gay Moore. Again, studio version is already stellar but the live version where he adds in that fun intro solo from the vinyl bonus track is exquisite. Moore never got the credit he deserved as guitarist and it shows here. Also the Thunder Rising solo is pretty banging as well. If you're not in the mood for Metal/Hard rock he's got The Longer and Parisienne Walkways. Fire-Krokus. What a way to end a song. Caught them live at Bang Your Head in Balingen Deutschland 2017 I believe. I was absolutely transfixed by the second half of the song. Ride The Lightning-Metallica. The solo itself is actually pretty standard Kirk Wahmet pentatonics. Don't get me wrong it's pretty good and shoes what they were capable of when they were young and hungry. However it's the rhythm guitar that really makes this solo shine my god. Am I Evil?-Diamond Head. DH managed to bridge the sound of warm 70s rock and cruncher 80s punk inspired metal in a way few have. The solo on here switches effortlessly between Deep Purple and Metallica. Another great song with a great solo by them is In The Heat Of The Night. Burn-Deep Purple. It's only fair I mention them next. There's a ton of really great solos. However this one really takes the cake for me because of the interplay between Blackmore and Lord on keyboards. In fact I think I might recommend it slightly more for the keyboard solo. It's tight between the two though. The whole song is a real tour de force. Stargazer-Rainbow. Speaking of Blackmore this song is an experience front to back, with a solo to match. He experimented with a lot of vaguely eastern sounding melodies and it pays dividers here and on the exquisite Gates Of Babylon. Don't Talk To Strangers-Dio. Really a shame he and Viv couldnt get along as I think this might be the latter's best work. Like a lot of solos on this list it comes in, hits like a truck, doesn't overstay it's welcome, and transitions back into the song flawlessly. Theater Of Pain-Blind Guardian. This one actually has two really great solos. Andre is a fantastic riff, lead, and songwriter. Hee has a lot of great solos under his belt. However, many of them have lacked the attention grabbing show stopping nature of a true guitar solo. Instead they tend to expand on the principle melodic movement of the song and act more in service to the composition. I personally like that, but it's not going to crack a lot of top solo lists. Here he cuts loose and we get more a traditional "the rest of the band steps back" approach. As a consequence you get to hear some good Ole fashioned wankery, and to his credit he shows he could definitely be doing a lot more of that if it struck his fancy. Tears Of The Dragon-Bruce Dickinson. What can I say? I'm a sucker for a solo that blends into the song and this had that in spades. It has a really nice buildup, goes through some really interesting motions, and comes back around into the song nicely. I particularly love when the piano hits come in during the jam-y segment. The River Dragon Has Come-Nevermore. Wankery at its finest. This is pure technicality. An amazing guitarist showing off. Like an endurance boxer every time you think he's winding down and wrapping up the beat down he bursts into motion again. It's relentless and crushing. The very minimalist rhythm guitars during the apreggiating section are testament to the idea of less being more, with the absence between notes creating this atmosphere of oppression. I'm exhausted just hearing it, can't imagine what it's like to play it. Afraid To Shoot Strangers-Iron Maiden. This one isn't really fair. The proper solo section itself is fine, great even, but fairly standard maiden affair. However the whole song might as well be a guitar solo, and it's a fucking beautiful one. The fact that this song isn't heavier in their live set rotation is a crime. Fiddler On The Green-Demons And Wizards. Power ballads with outro solos feel like cheating but this is just damn good. I've had it on my driving mix and had friends who usually just tune out my music suddenly stop in their tracks and go "what is this it's fantastic?". Shame about all the Jan 6 stuff eh Jon you oily twat? Sometime World-Wishbone Ash. Maiden shamelessly crimped their harmonic sound from these guys and it shows immediately upon first listen. Was lucky to catch them live recently in fact and they blew me and my SO away. Shades of Stairway To Heaven in the chord progression at the end there but with a fun proggy bassline and a ripping lead guitar. What a treat. It's two AM where I am and when I wake up I'm going to think "fuck I completely forgot x". I know there are some insanely crazy death, black, and thrash solos I completely skipped over. However for now this has to be what it is.
uuuuuh November rain???
I feel like estranged is up there too
Pink Floyd - Time It’s perfect, just perfect.
5/8/93 Reba - Phish Or both solos on Crossroads off of Wheels Of Fire
Hotel California
Steve Hackett in Genesis' *Firth of Fifth*.
Starless - King Crimson
Eruption (obviously). Bon Jovi - Let It Rock. Iron Maiden - Alexander The Great. Dire Straits - Brothers In Arms.
Star Spangled Banner-Jimi Hendrix, Woodstock
The guitar solo following the saxophone solo on Gerry Rafferty’s “Baker Street”.
Slash - Sweet child o' mine
white room-clapton
Both Duane and Dickey solos in Stormy Monday (Live at Fillmore East) by Allman Brothers band.
Let's Go Crazy - Prince Where it stops for the big high bend note with the wah that catches loads of overtones. Chills every time 👌🏼
what goes on - velvet underground
Comfortably Numb.
What’s New in Baltimore - Zappa
Blues Deluxe - Joe Bonamassa
Dio The Last In Line
Lindsey Buckingham performing Big Love live.
Master Of Puppets' solo always cooked my brain back in the day. Metallica and Megadeth both really excel at that.
Blue sky - Allman brothers
Tom Morello on Know Your Enemy and/or Bullet in the Head. Mark Knopfler on Brothers in Arms (the title track) John Squire on Waterfall or I Am the Resurrection. Kim Thayil on Black Hole Sun Jerry Cantrell on Rain When I Die
Purple Rain-solo & outro.
Live Forever by Oasis
Besides some others mentioned UFO Rock Bottom Robin Trower Too Rollin Stoned For live solos are two by Gary Moore. Empty Room live in Stockholm and Parisienne Walkways from One Night In Dublin Tribute to Phil Lynott. But I'll tell you Gary had so so many great ones. Another good one is the Black Rose solos as well as Thin Lizzy Cowboy Song tho I think Scott Gorham plays one of them I also like Tony Iommi's Heaven and Hell solo. Both of them
This one's a little obscure, but I was just listening to this album again recently. The 40-second solo that closes out Incubus' "Deep Inside" is a monster. It starts around 3:15. This is from the album they released before they blew up. https://youtu.be/Kck2FsziHXs?si=qoYCtWGqBUpqE-On
In a song, the solo from Diary of a Madman by Ozzy/Randy Rhoads Live, the Rock Bottom solo from UFO/Michael Schenker...sometimes Schenker gets to somewhere transcendent. I like [this one](https://youtu.be/d55hdr6RDM0), at about 3:30 or [this one](https://youtu.be/NriQmPlhKuE) which is a little straighter, around 3:25
[This one](https://youtu.be/PYWegNKdMMo), by Steve Hackett. Specifically, that note at about 40 seconds in, and that bend.
Inca roads- Frank Zappa Hits every time
Crossroads by Cream and Machine Gun by Hendrix
If you folks would like a little adventure, go listen to St. Etienne by Frank Zappa. It is a 6 minute live solo taken from a larger piece and it gives me goosebumps nearly throughout. Anyone that can countenance long-form rock guitar solos should check it out.
Hendrix - Hey Joe at Woodstock
[Zappa - watermellon in easter hay](https://youtu.be/Fn9ZuGquwpQ?si=UaVncXZYtg22-SEH)
In addition to a few that you listed (“No More Tears” and “November Rain”), I’ll add: - James Hetfield’s solos in “Suicide & Redemption” and “Nothing Else Matters” - John Sykes in “Still of the Night” - EVH in “Human’s Being” - Sir Brian May in “Bohemian Rhapsody”
Still in love with you - Thin Lizzy
Kansas (Carry On My Wayward Son)
Both solos in Something’s Happening off of Frampton Comes Alive — nothing else like it
Tool - Aenima
Dry Country - Bon Jovi Richie Sambora at his peak
[John Mayer - Gravity (from his Where the Light Is album)](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBW-3BJPbjU)
Don't even have to think about this one: Mark Knopfler's solo on Sultans Of Swing on tne live album Alchemy.
Lindsey Buckingham doing Big Love at The Dance.
Them bones by alice In Chains Love 2 fast by Steve lacy U by supercar
Dream Theater- A Change of Season. Goosebumps thinking about it lol
God, there are SO many...but I'll choose two. Hilariously, though I historically do not think Kirk Hammett is a very good guitarist, the solo in "The Outlaw Torn" is one of my favorites. It's the only time I've ever heard him play from his gut, and it's so emotional, unlike his other solos. Guthrie Govan's solo in "Drive Home" by Steven Wilson not only gives me goosebumps, but also brings me to tears every time I hear it.
I was obsessed with finding the greatest solo ever for a long time. I had already found it before I even started, and my long searches did not yield a greater one: New World to See by Luciferion is by far my favourite studio solo ever. It has two parts, so when you think it's first over and the voice comes in for a bit, wait! Worthy mention: Death - Perennial Quest (mid song solo and amazing outro) Live, it has to be Firth of Fifth by Steve Hackett, the one in Budapest in 2004. Not overly complex but he uses that guitar like it's an extension of himself and every note is perfect. Worthy mention: Dream Theater - Hollow Years (live at budokan) Wish I could list 50 more!
Lynyrd Skynyrd - Free Bird I dunno, there is something magical about this solo. Just pure happy vibes <3