The following are some of the most influential guitar players in my life. Unfortunately they are all dead. Musicians either die from drugs or transport accidents which is a down right shame for all of us. I hope you enjoy this cross section.

1. Jeff Healey

Jeff lost his vision to retinoblastoma and died from lung cancer in 2008. The guy was a guitar genius and here is a version of a popular song that highlights some of his skills.

Jeff Healey – Roadhouse Blues

2. Stevie Ray Vaughan

Stevie was killed when his helicopter crashed and was probably at the height of his career. This song I have picked is my absolute favourite.

Stevie Ray Vaughan – Pride and Joy

3. Rory Gallagher

Wow, this guy had it. Whatever it is Rory just had IT. Died following complications from a liver transplant, shame on you Gordon.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJCUKh-IToo

Rory Gallagher – Messin with the Kid

4. Gary Moore

Gary captivated me by his smoothness on the guitar. I rate him with Carlos Santana and Larry Carlton. Yes, you may want to have heard Still Got the Blues but this version of Red House shows all of Gary’s skills. Died from a heart attack in his sleep aged 58.

Gary Moore – Red House

5. Roy Buchanan

Unbelievable player that didn’t get the commercial success he deserved. Committed suicide in 1988. This song is by Tyrone Davis and was a big hit in 1969.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xCtN_LeHsrA

Roy Buchanan – Can  I Change My Mind

First published: http://hungsworld.wordpress.com/2014/10/30/five-great-blues-guitar-players/