Why: The self-taught lefty from Seattle who died at 27 in 1970, is considered the ultimate guitar god. He's No. 1 on an overwhelming number of lists, including Eric Clapton's.
Tracks: "Foxey Lady," "The Wind Cries Mary," "Bold as Love," "Voodoo Chile."
Why: Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame three times (through the Yardbirds, Cream and his solo work), Clapton arguably is the most talented and versatile living rock guitarist. He can fire off finger-blurring rock leads as well as craft smooth and emotion-packed blues solos.
Tracks: "Crossroads," "Badge," "Layla," "Groanin' the Blues."
Why: With an onstage swagger backed up by his talent, he epitomized the '70s rock god as the driving force in the creation of Led Zeppelin.
Tracks: "Dazed and Confused," "Heartbreaker," "Since I've Been Loving You," "Black Dog.
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Why: As co-founder of the Who, he helped make over-the-top theatrics a rock-show staple.
Tracks: "My Generation," "Pinball Wizard," "Young Man's Blues," "Won't Get Fooled Again."
Why: His mix of fiery rock and the rhythms of Latin America and Africa were ground-breaking.
Tracks: "Soul Sacrifice," "Oye Como Va," "No One to Depend On," "Samba Pa Ti."
Why: His fret-board pyrotechnics made him the idol of new generation of "shredders" in the late '70s and '80s.
Tracks: "Eruption," "Hot for Teacher," "Panama," "Dreams.
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Why: He and his band, Double Trouble, helped revive the blues-rock sound in the 1980s and inspired a new generation of blues players.
Tracks: "Mary Had a Little Lamb," "Couldn't Stand the Weather," "Crossfire," "Little Wing."
Why: His superior songwriting and technique made him an immediate sensation in the guitar community when he debuted in the mid-'80s.
Tracks: "Surfing With the Alien," "Satch Boogie," "Summer Song," "Super Colossal."
Why: With top hat, leather jacket and aggressive playing, born Saul Hudson, the co-founder of Guns N' Roses (with Axl Rose) is an icon to younger players.
Tracks: "Welcome to the Jungle," "Sweet Child O' Mine," "Paradise City," "Slither.
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Why: He brought the slide guitar to the forefront of rock with his slick, innovative style.
Tracks: "Statesboro Blues," "Whipping Post," "Mountain Jam," "One Way Out."
Why: The English-born veteran of the Yardbirds is one of the most technically proficient and adventurous players in rock and fusion.
Tracks: "Plynth (Water Down the Drain)," "Beck's Bolero," "Freeway Jam," "Blue Wind."
Why: His mix of modern rock and blues is gritty and powerful whether he's with the White Stripes or the Raconteurs.
Tracks: "Fell in Love With a Girl," "Seven Nation Army," "Ball and Biscuit," "Blue Veins.
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