Why David Gilmour Is the Greatest Guitarist of All Time
Who is the greatest guitarist of all time? It’s an ongoing debate that always starts endless conversations and arguments among music fans. Understandably so, I might add. Because there are so many sides to guitar play and sound.
While some music lovers may prefer fast technical solos or groovy improvisations, others may be drawn to slow melodic compositions, or lose their mind over great heavy riffs. It’s a highly subjective topic. Yet, there’s one particular artist, who in the eyes of many, myself included, truly deserves to be called THE Best.
David Gilmour is the greatest guitarist of all time. His unique, otherworldly, melodic, emotional solos shaped not only Pink Floyd’s sound, but left an undeniable mark on entire rock music genre.
Gilmour’s guitar playing is pure magic. There’s no one like him. He continues to inspire musicians worldwide to this day, and will do so as long as humanity exists. His sound is just timeless.
If you are not familiar with his songs, I’ll provide nice examples. But if you do know his music, and still think that other guitarists are better, let’s see if my arguments can make you change your mind 🎸
What Sets David Gilmour Apart
David Gilmour is in a league of his own. And I’m not talking about technical skill of playing fast, or super complicated tunes. Technical skill requires talent, but after it can be taught. Many guitarists can play fast or show off technical ability. There were plenty of talented musicians in the past who were known for that style of play. Not to say, that David lacks those skills, but he focuses on something else.
David has always prioritized the most powerful aspect of music – emotion. Think about it: why do you listen to music? Because it makes you feel good, because ultimately music evokes certain emotions in us. And it seems like David Gilmour understood that from the beginning. Maybe instinctively, maybe he thought about it long and hard. Or maybe that’s the most pure way he wanted to express himself.
Whatever the case may be, the result is what it is: every note he plays feels meaningful. When you listen to his songs and you hear these incredible solos, you are almost stuck in anticipation for every bit of sound that is about to come out of his guitar. It just hits different, his music reaches you on a deeper level. Gilmour’s playing defined Pink Floyd’s sound, and it’s one of the (if not THE) best bands ever.
Gilmour’s Unique Signature Sound
David Gilmour developed a truly special, unique signature sound. Once you hear him play, you will always recognize it. It’s not about speed or flashy techniques, it’s about the feeling. He often chooses slow, intricate ascending solos that create otherworldly sense of space and time. What other guitarists can match that? And David created multiple pieces like that.
You might think – what is he talking about? Well, let me give you a couple of examples. Listen to “Shine On You Crazy Diamond” or “Comfortably Numb”. Just do the proper way – with good headphones, or quality stereo system. Sit back, relax and just listen:
The Most Iconic Solos Ever
David Gilmour has created some of the most amazing guitar solos in history. Not just rock history, but music in general. His solo in “Comfortably Numb” is widely considered by fellow musicians and fans as one of the best ever. The solo is a perfect combination of technical skill and that pure emotional feel that I mentioned earlier.
Same goes for his guitar in “Shine On You Crazy Diamond”. Or the iconic hit “Time”. Or the end of “High Hopes”. Or the mesmerizing “Marooned”. Or you can check his latest solo album “Luck and Strange” and the song “Scattered”. I mean there are too many masterpieces to name here. I highly recommend listening to these Pink Floyd Best Songs to fully enjoy this one of a kind music.
Gilmour’s Impact on Other Musicians
David Gilmour had a big influence on music and inspired countless guitarists across various genres like rock, blues, and progressive. For example, Kirk Hammett from Metallica said this about David:
“Everyone goes on about Comfortably Numb and that guitar solo, and yes, the guitar solo is absolutely amazing with the delay and the chorus. But my favorite part is when he flubs a note and then turns it into an open G during the solo. I know everyone knows what I’m talking about! But I love that David left it in. I love that.”
Other famous guitarists like Joe Bonamassa, Eddie Van Halen, Billy Corgan also praised David’s ability to transform his emotions into beautiful guitar sound. This is not surprising really, greatness recognizes greatness.
Conclusion
David Gilmour has long ago cemented his place in music history. As a composer, as a member and leader of Pink Floyd. And as one of the greatest, if not THE greatest guitarist of all time.
Sure, there are other worthy musicians who I have no problem being named the best ever when it comes down to guitar play. Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen, Jimmy Page and many others. But what sets David Gilmour apart is that he found that perfect, seemingly unattainable balance between technical skill and ability to express and deliver deep emotions through his guitar.
Guilmor’s ability to connect with listeners, whether it’s a fellow musician or a regular music fan is something he does like no one else. This is the man whose simple notes are played in the right time, in the right order, in the right tone and in the right pace. All to create absolutely beautiful guitar music.
