I call myself a Bluesman. And as such most of my favorites are from the same genre. Here's an overview of just some of the names who have influenced my approach towards music in one way or another. This list is by no means complete, and represents just a few of the many great names that I've cut my teeth with...
The blues purist, Eric Clapton borrowed from everyone and made it into his own. In a career spanning almost four decades, Clapton has influenced the most number of guitarists than anyone else. The inventor of "Heavy Metal", Clapton took blues music into unchartered territories. In recent days, Clapton has emerged as a true survivor in blues music by rediscovering the acoustc blues sound of the Mississipi Delta.
An exceptional Jazz guitarist in the "Wes Montgommery-mould", George Benson's sentimental playing is just awesome. His exceptional picking technique has left many breathless including the likes of Tuck Andres. Recently I have had the privillige of watching Bensoin live in Manila. It was an out-of-this-world experience, something to remember and cherish my whole life!
The most brilliant guitarist to ever have walked the planet, the late Stevie Ray Vaughan redifined blues music and took it to new hights of expressiveness. Vaughan forged a unique "Texas Blues" sound that became the hallmark of his legendary playing. In an all too short playing career, Vaughan proved himself to be one of the greatest guitarists of all times.
The ultimate pyrotechnician, Steve Vai, though not a blues guitarist in a strict sense, has been a great source of inspiration for me because of his masterful technique and effortless playing style. An icon for punk guitar, Vai has enjoyed a cult following that keeps growing by the day. Always a treat to watch.