This whole series is scored by my friend and collaborator Brian, from Ways in Waves. He posted a timelapse of his entire process for this episode if you want to check it out: ruclips.net/user/shortsqSa0cq6CNxc And if you want to listen to more of his music, find him at waysinwaves.bandcamp.com/
Another in this style of early metal was original lineup of Uriah Heap Daemond's and Wizards the second album well as early Atomic Rooster in first lineup with the Death Walks Behind You album and song. Also credit should go the Who as well with songs like Boris the Spider off 1967 Who a quick one as well as songs off The Who's Tommy.
Guitar solos? Still thriving, excelling even, ruclips.net/video/v0azmPD_KE0/видео.html Formed in 2016, every one of this band's 60 original songs has two 'solos' (one from each of the two guitarists) and only a handful lack a guitar-harmony-duet, while a majority include unison/harmony melodic guitars throughout, as the second song at the above link shows. It is played with guitars in unison/harmony start to end, including an extended 'twin-solo' in the middle. Also, lyrics of self-empowerment & personal-responsibility.
The fact zeppelin played a version of Dazed and Confused that lasted (no exaggeration) 45 minutes is insane in the best way possible. They really gave you your money’s worth. Bring back 3 hour concerts!
thats that good ‘ol heron. Jimmy high as giraffe pxssy just going off on guitar while he’d walk in a circle and the rest of the band just had to go with it
@@poindextertunes right! Except not in 75’ when it took place. Although people accredit his sloppy playing on this tour to his heroin use, it was actually due to a broken finger as a result of smashing it in a train door. His heroin usage began after this tour and resulted in the several disastrous shows of the 77’ tour. Although, they still had their monumental moments such as their return to the LA forum, heard through the bootleg titled “Listen to this, Eddie”
The last solo on “Dogs” is probably my favorite but that solo on “Time” is close second. Those bends when the female backing vocals come back into the track is just magical.
So glad you recognize Zappa and include him in the history of guitar solo. For so many years, people have always pretended to be deaf and almost completely ignore his influence on music, and instead focusing on his rather eclectic and bizarre image. His technicality, and his ability to built moods and integrate feelings in his compositions, really goes decades beyond others at the time.
@@robgronotte1 well then thats okay. i was just exactly like you at first, but through curiousity, i then finally found the extravagant stuff that has been rarely played in documentaries and stuff like this. And he has such a diverse discography, i mean, REALLY diverse, he even had 60 albums released while he was alive and about 60+ more posthumous albums released until this very moment. He had covered so many styles that i am sure will get your minds blown, if you are into music production. The only other genius i could attribute the same characteristics as Zappa is Todd Rundgren
Maaaannn, I've always been amazed at how David Gilmour's solo in "Time" is, effectively, him reciting the lyrics of the song... just through a guitar. Absolute poetry without a single human voice.
No it's not because the lyrics are sung in 7/8 whereas Gilmour's solo is in 4/4 because he wasn't able to deliver it in 7/8. Yet some ignorants think this guy is a genius.
@@mojoblues66genius isn’t being being able to play in 7/8 or any other weird ass time signature. Genius is being able to record something that resonates with millions regardless of technical abilities. That said you completely overlook the fact he sings the ONLY 7/4 song to ever be a billboard hit🤦♂️ just because you don’t like him doesn’t mean he isn’t genius. I can’t stand most of zappa’s music, but no doubt he was a musical genius.
When I think of 70's rock, the unique sound that always comes to mind is that of the band Boston. The heavy guitars, the duet solos, Brad Delp's angelic harmonies. Would've loved to hear them in this video.
Boston paved the way less in music itself (though it was still pretty good) and more in production. Their self-titled album sounds like the first 80's album, despite being made in 1976.
Boston's first two albums were a large part of my childhood music appreciation. And while Scholz is just as known for his organ (and other keyboard) playing as for his guitar work, I've always thought that the solo at the end of Hitch a Ride specifically is a criminally underappreciated one that could stand among the all-time greats. It's certainly among my favorites to this day, even if there are others that are flashier, more iconic, or more novel in approach.
When I saw Rory's check shirt at the end, I teared up. He's always been my favorite and I love seeing him get the recognition he never got when he was alive, but likely wouldn't have cared about even if he had. Thank you for this project..
@@xanderbucher9625 True that, Veteran of the Psychic Wars live 10/9/1981 is a perfect example, the rendition is just insanely, mind blowing, good. I was hoping to see it on the video. You can check it out on youtube.
Man, the 70s was such a golden age of music, not just guitar solos, but everything. I feel like there's an endless list of great artists and bands in so many genres.
@@JackOwens exorcist and alien were revolutionary, not even 80s could top those 2. But when it comes to movies, I feel like the 90s were golden era for the cinema.
Godfather, Taxi Driver, Star Wars, Jaws, Halloween, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest etc are from the 70s. Some good stuff. Although I'll agree a lot of it is must a matter of personal taste.
Glad to see Steve Howe mentioned. He had so many incredible moments during Yes’ classic period. Not to mention how his skills went beyond just the electric guitar.
we've always said if you find yourself singing along to the guitar solo, you've given the instrument it's voice. The power to speak without saying a word always gives me chills. It demands your attention but also earns it.
So jealous. We had lots of good stuff coming out when I was in high school (2018-2021) but the experience was waaay different than what you had. People in the 70s got to fully live not worried about their every move and word being surveilled and recorded on the internet. Led Zeppelin couldn’t have hurt too lol
No social media no youtube no iphones... COMPUTERS THE SIZE OF YOUR ROOOM THAT YOU CAN'T TAKE WITH YOU! What did you guys do all day? No wonder everyone got on drugs!
The craziest thing about Elliott Randall's solo on Reelin' in the Years is that he just came in, read the lyrics to get a sense of the feeling of the song and just whipped it out of nowhere but they didn't record it since they thought he was just practicing. Then he just played it again one more time and that was it, perfection.
@@jperryfan It was not recorded on a Tele It was on his custom 1963 Strat with a '69 PAF Humbucker, covers off, in the neck position To maximize the warm and singing tones found here Randall has commented on this multiple times and its even all over his own site too
To anyone curious about Rory Gallagher, check out his band from the 60s, Taste. Their 1970 Isle of Wight Festival performances were truly electrifying. Seeing Taste's live performances of What's Going On and Sugar Mama on RUclips back in 2019 was what made me stick with guitar when I felt like I wasn't getting anywhere. Both of their albums and Rory's first two solo albums are awesome. I also must say that Rory's saxophone playing is beautiful.
Love the mention of Hackett. His recognition as one of the greatest guitarists of the 70s is long overdue. It would be great to see your take on the work of Genesis in a standalone video. Great video :)
Steve is one of the elite level of guitar players who's just as amazing acoustically as they are electrically, his intro to Blood on the Rooftops is just sublime.
Just had the pleasure of seeing Steve in DC last month. He sounds better than ever, with a fantastic band. Such a brilliant guitarist, and by all accounts a wonderful and humble guy
I feel like I was born at the right time to enjoy the glory days of the guitar solo. Page, Perry, Nugent, Gilmour, EVH, Randy, Zakk and every one from the late 80s were all people that I got to enjoy in real time.
Probably should've mentioned Tom Scholz of Boston. He's responsible for many guitarists' sound profile and some of his solos are truly insane (like the one from Hitch A Ride)
Thank you for highlighting Rory Gallagher. I had the pleasure of seeing him live three times and he put on awesome shows every time. I saw a lot of shows in the 70s, including most of the players you showcased here (alas, I was a bit too young for Hendrix!) and they were all great.
A little upset Gary Moore wasn’t mentioned. I believe he was already killing it in Thin Lizzy in the 70’s. He’s one of the absolute Greats with the most beautiful Vibrato you’ll hear.
Great compilation of guitar musicians. One stand out omission, for me, would be Peter Green. Rarely can a guitarist make his instrument talk and communicate quite like he did in Albatros and Green Manalishi with a grateful nod to Danny Kirwin.....a very young but talented member of young Fleetwood Mac.
The solo from Comfortably Numb is one the very best solos ever. Not the most technical, but so many emotions in this song and in the solo. It's extraordinary
Man.. being a guitarrist myself, left handed and in a Genesis Cover Band.. I mean, it really borught tears in my eyes. PS: Kudos to putting Hakket tapping before EVH.
I can only imagine the hard edit in this video is because of copyright drama. I've always said this channel is so risky in what's heard in the story telling. What I've noticed with Page in his live playing the solo's are rarely ever the same. They are all adventures on the fretboard. Jimmy would go off so far in the solo wilderness you wondered how he managed to return to the song. He really had a flare and had no fear of getting lost when in his solos. The players who imitate Page tend to stick to the rules and never drift too far away from the recorded solos.
My favourite guitarist is Andy Latimer of Camel. He can play as fast as anyone, but normally just plays wonderful, melodic and emotional solos. Hackett is also a genius. His solo on Firth of Fifth is incredible. As for Rory Gallagher, you may not have heard of him in the States, but in the UK, he's a legend.
25 minutes in and i was loosin hope, but then my prayers were answered and you gave Rory some time in the spotlight. I'll always be convinced he's the greatest, tying with Stevie Ray and Eddie.
I've played guitar for over 40 years and today I've been introduced to both Frank Zappa - Watermelon In Easter Hay, and Eddie Hazel / Funkadelic - Maggot Brain. Epic!
"Can you think of another song, any song, for which, when its first chord is played, an entire audience of 20,000 rise spontaneously to their feet, not just to cheer or clap hands, but in acknowledgement of an event that is crucial for all of them?" Grateful Dead playing Dark Star
When I went to concerts in the 70s and 80s the crowd loved the solo's. We lived for them. The place was like a cloud of smoke anyway and the solos were mesmerizing.
What a huge oversight not to mention Robin Trower- one of the 70's finest guitarists, a big act in the 70's and also hugely influenced by Hendrix who you frequently mention. What a shame.
After all these years I am still discovering hidden gems from the 70s. It was an era of musical experimentation and long improvisations that still managed to be fun. The electric guitar ruled that era above all else.
A heartfelt thank you for including Rory Gallagher. An absolutely underrated gem of a musician. If the first 30 seconds or so of “Irish Tour” doesn’t stand your hairs up, check your pulse and call a physician because something is wrong with you.
Hi @Polyphonic, let me start off by saying this is an amazing video that I bet was rather challenging considering the sheer number of amazing guitar solos in the 70s. I'm not sure how often you read the comments underneath your videos, let alone take suggestions from random people, but there's been something that's captivated me as of late and I can't think of a better person to do a video on it than you. UFO is considered one of the best underrated bands out there, and what I find particularly intriguing is their first 2 albums, which are often overlooked; UFO 1 and UFO 2: Flying. They were released in 1970 and 1971 respectively, and feature some of the best space and heavy rock I've ever had the pleasure of listening to, especially the latter one. These two albums are far more experimental in contrast to their later works (which are far more streamlined) and were done by the original lineup which featured the guitarist that preceded Michael Schenker. His name is Mick Bolton, and despite the talent and potential you hear in their early work, he just... disappears? I couldn't find anything about him beyond his work with UFO, but maybe I lack the research skills you and your team have. I think it makes for an interesting video and I'm really curious to hear your thoughts on the matter; if not in a video, then hopefully in a comment. Songs like Star Storm and Flying are journeys in and of themselves, not too dissimilar to Pink Floyd's Echoes or Zeppelin's Achilles Last Stand. Truly makes one wonder what else they could've done had they kept the original lineup intact, and if there are similar works out there by other bands that have been buried under the sands of time.
My fave live Zep moment (that I've only really seen through youtube videos cuz im a youngin) was in their latter years (maybe 75-78), Jimmy was doing an extended solo and someone in the audience shouts "get on with it" very audibly, Jimmy just starts playing louder and more insane and goes on for another few minutes before getting back into the song
Watching this video I suddenly realized that the guitar solos, especially the most complex ones, were an important part and in some cases they became historic and inspiring for future generations. They are no longer important for the music industry. In many cases, if the music is simple or less complex, it will be more successful for the masses.
as a teenager i loved The Stranglers & Tangerine Dream but on a school trip bus in 1978 I 1st heard Ritchie Blackmores’ bonkers lead solo in Highway Star from the original Made in Japan. That & Alex Lifeson on La Villa..on Hemispheres had me hooked on heavy Rock or Prog etc
Great job. Bummed you didn’t mention any of Alex Lifeson’s work during this. Then I realized you are waiting to you him in the next video. I know Tom Sawyer is the popular choice, but on Red Barchetta, he really evokes the feeling of flying down the open road in a fast car.
dude SAME. Lifeson gets lost between to absolute masters of their instruments but he is one of the most creative soloist of all time. YYZ, Subdivisions, Tom Sawyer, fkn SPIRIT OF THE RADIO ! how could he leave out RUSH?!
Good commentary; not bloated or rhetorical. Just about the right time length. Good collection of masters. I always miss Rik Emmett of Triumph in these mentions of great guitarists.
Rory Gallagher!! One of my heroes!!!! The reason his Strat had its unique finish was because of Rory's blood type. Rory's sweat acted as paint thinner and stripped the lacquer and finish off of his Strat. Rory's live albums are where he shined. I would recommend anyone start with Gallagher's "Irish Tour." It's a great live album. The back to back of the ballad "A Million Miles Away" and the stormer "Walking on Hot Coals" show Rory's skills. He was the real deal.
Interesting, I think of Zappa as a technical musician, but, a spontaneous playful guitarist. (As your quote would seem to show) He did, after all, hire Steve Vai to play parts he wrote but could not play.
Animala as Leaders? Polyphia? Winery Dogs? There are tons of other guitar based bands popping ip everywhere. I think COVID actually got tons of younger people into guitar. Keep looking. It may not be in the top 100 lists as much, but there is great guitar music everywhere.
This video is so much better done than others of its type. I can't stand cheap remake guitar rock content. This one does it so well and I'll be sharing it as I can.
Jazz Fusion guitarists are on another level. They are by far the most technically proficient players out there. Al Dimeola, Allan Holdsworth, John McLaughlin, Frank Gambale, and the one and only Shawn Lane are not that well known outside guitar circles but they are up there as one of the best
Great compiliation. Glad you mentioned Rory Galagher. Didnt see Clapton or Stevie Ray Vaughan. Eric Clapton solo on Layla is one of the most iconic ever in my opinion.
one of the best things about videos like this is that I get to see where a lot of my favourite musicians got their own inspirations from. every time I hear a Robert Fripp or Hendrix clip I think 'oh this is where John Frusciante got it from' in the best way
glad to see rory gallagher mentioned at the end!!! this video and series is absolutely awesome!! and huge shoutout to brian raine for the original music, it's just great and really fits the videos
Thank you polyphonic for remembering rory gallagher, its about time he gets more recognition along with gary moore, gallagher is insane on his shadow play live solos
I grew up listening to my Dad’s curated collection of rock music from the 60s and 70s. Each distinct style of every musician, with specific instruments and instantly recognizable riffs, felt like hearing a voice and knowing exactly who it was singing. When I got into my 20s, I embraced other genres that relied heavily on the guitar. Heavy metal, punk, emo, and more recently the rock-ier side of Jpop and K-pop. I suppose that in America and the UK, the guitar had its golden age in the 70s. But I feel it would be utterly remiss to neglect Scandinavian and Asian music genres that have taken that baton, that have RUN with it and continued evolving the guitar solo into something new
I to stumbled upon Gallagher about 23 years ago. Yep, Napster era. It was a great tool to discover new music. I actually would go purchase the album I like after. I know not everybody did that. Gallagher (and you pronounced it right with a silent g) was a true Irish bard!
I remember when Desire by Meg Myers came out in 2014 and that has an AMAZING guitar solo. I thought maybe we’d have a renaissance, but we get the great solo just here and there still. Makes them even more special when they do pop up!
You'll never convince me that the studio recording of Sultans of Swing isn't the pinnacle of guitar work. It's absolute perfection. the rhythm, the cadence, the tone.
Polyphonic you always make me happy. The guitar solo is one of the things I live for. When I am alone and playing my Les Paul I go into a solo I pulled out of the air and get lost for 10 minutes or more and I think of all the Polyphonic videos I have seen. You feed me what I need. Thank you so much. Life is good!! ❤ I wish you would do something about Bonnie Raitt and her slide guitar solos and how she achieves them. She is one of my guitar heroes.
Great stuff as always. I do think you overlooked two guitarists that must be, imo, in such a video. First one is Jeff Beck, who like Rory appears on the mt Rushmore of many many talented and famous guitarists. Beck implemented Bluesy solos that were more popular in Rock music as you told, in funky and jazzy rhythms, basically inventing Red Hot Chili Peppers' entire style (a hyperbole, but you know what I mean). His solos inspired probably every guitarist in the next decade and the emergence of Hair Metal. Second one I want to mention is Andrew Latimer from Camel. An absolute staple of prog rock. Their 1975 album The Snow Goose is to prog rock basically what Dave Brubeck's Time Out is to jazz. It is one of the first records you will ever listen to when venturing into the genre. Latimer embeds his solos throughout the orchestral arrangements and for many people was the first time they heard distorted guitars in such a "classical" setting. If you go over the comments and read this, would love to hear your thoughts about them.
I was going to say good job with highlighting most of the big names from the 70's but it boggles the mind how you neglected to mention one of the greatest prog bands of all time "Rush". Lifeson checks all the boxes more than most and was a huge influences on guitarist. I'm glad you mentioned Rory Gallager who generally gets missed but another name to add to "most underrated" is Frank Marino, who imo should be ranked as one of the greatest guitar players of all time.
@22:28 "...wicked fast notes..." to most of the world, that is a descriptive term. To Bostonians it is a technical designation. And we salute you for it!
I know you can’t capture everything, and this is an awesome video! That said, could be worth mentioning the rise of dual (sometimes triple) harmony solos - like Thin Lizzy & Boston. That style of harmonies becomes diffuse through the 80s (eg, Maiden).
George Benson, Larry Coryell, John McLaughlin, Pat Martino, Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, Johnny Winter, Santana, Frank Zappa, Allan Holdsworth, Pat Metheny, Steve Howe, Jan Akkerman, Al Di Meola, Gary Boyle, Steve Hillage, Jukka Tolonen, Coste Apetrea, John Scofield, John Ethridge, Tommy Bolin, Frank Gambale, Andrew Latimer, Robert Fripp, Rory Gallagher, Elvin Lee, Roy Buchanan, Philip Catherine, Steve Morse, Buckethead, Shawn Lane, Bireli Lagrene, Jimmy Herring and many others (Jazz, Fusion, Jazz-Rock, Blues, Blues-Rock, Prog, Hard-Rock)
All of those bands are probably why myself have always been huge on writing solos with my bands, Animal Ally and Mortal Wrath definitely have some tasty solos on each one of our songs, thanks to influence and inspiration from the greats 🤘
An underground great that should definitely be highlighted around this time is Mizutani from the Japanese psychedelic band Les Rallizes Denudes. '77 Live is one of the most foundational performances to all of noise rock, and Mizutani's soloing throughout their closing rendition of "The Last One" makes it one of those songs that genuinely does not feel real. Go listen to '77 Live.
Great overview! This genera is my jam and I'm proud that there wasn't a song or album that was listed that I hadn't known. Still gives me goosebumps to this day even though I've listened to them all dozens of times by now.
I was yelling play freebird in 1997.... Its been a running gag as long as I can remember. My dad grew up in Redding California, in 1978 he was 19. He has his original van Halen concert Tshirt from the first show, of the first tour ever. He played guitar so i grew up listening to everyone you listed in the video, and several more, Eric Johnson, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, thats not even counting any of the local bands that played at the bar he was half owner of..... If you ever run across Baby Jason and the spankers, those guys had a heck of a show.
No Gary Moore, Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson from Thin Lizzy 😢. The dual lead guitar work was amazing. Not to mentioned the solos those guys could belt out
Amazing video! Your videos are always so well done. However, I did hope to see Alex Lifeson on here. Definitely one of the most unique guitar players and solo performers.
Zappa is my all time favorite guitarist. Glad this video gave him the credit he deserves and, unfortunately, so often lacks. From ‘73-82 I think he was the best guitarist in the universe. He wasn’t bad in ‘70-‘72 or ‘88 either.
![[DRAGON BALL LEGENDS REVEALS ＆ STUFF] LEGENDS FESTIVAL 2024 Special Edition Part 1](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/mV5bGIswTtQ/mqdefault.jpg)
This whole series is scored by my friend and collaborator Brian, from Ways in Waves. He posted a timelapse of his entire process for this episode if you want to check it out: ruclips.net/user/shortsqSa0cq6CNxc
And if you want to listen to more of his music, find him at waysinwaves.bandcamp.com/
Another in this style of early metal was original lineup of Uriah Heap Daemond's and Wizards the second album well as early Atomic Rooster in first lineup with the Death Walks Behind You album and song. Also credit should go the Who as well with songs like Boris the Spider off 1967 Who a quick one as well as songs off The Who's Tommy.
Guitar solos? Still thriving, excelling even, ruclips.net/video/v0azmPD_KE0/видео.html
Formed in 2016, every one of this band's 60 original songs has two 'solos' (one from each of the two guitarists) and only a handful lack a guitar-harmony-duet, while a majority include unison/harmony melodic guitars throughout, as the second song at the above link shows. It is played with guitars in unison/harmony start to end, including an extended 'twin-solo' in the middle. Also, lyrics of self-empowerment & personal-responsibility.
The fact zeppelin played a version of Dazed and Confused that lasted (no exaggeration) 45 minutes is insane in the best way possible. They really gave you your money’s worth. Bring back 3 hour concerts!
Bruce Springsteen I believe still plays 3-4h shows, the absolute legend!
thats that good ‘ol heron. Jimmy high as giraffe pxssy just going off on guitar while he’d walk in a circle and the rest of the band just had to go with it
@@poindextertunes right! Except not in 75’ when it took place. Although people accredit his sloppy playing on this tour to his heroin use, it was actually due to a broken finger as a result of smashing it in a train door. His heroin usage began after this tour and resulted in the several disastrous shows of the 77’ tour. Although, they still had their monumental moments such as their return to the LA forum, heard through the bootleg titled “Listen to this, Eddie”
@@EthanJamesMOJOTrain doors
@@StratsRUs thank you! Corrected it instead of it saying “car or train door.”
I love the solo on Time, especially when he reaches on those bends....WOW
The last solo on “Dogs” is probably my favorite but that solo on “Time” is close second. Those bends when the female backing vocals come back into the track is just magical.
I recommend you check out wrathchild America version
something like echoes or the great fat old sun
Oh, how I agree . The solo on "Comfortably Numb" is fantastic without a doubt, but "Time" has an equally amazing solo, too.
So glad you recognize Zappa and include him in the history of guitar solo. For so many years, people have always pretended to be deaf and almost completely ignore his influence on music, and instead focusing on his rather eclectic and bizarre image. His technicality, and his ability to built moods and integrate feelings in his compositions, really goes decades beyond others at the time.
Black Napkins 😎
Everything I've ever heard by him just makes my ears hurt, and of all the clips played here, the Zappa ones were the only ones I didn't like.
@@robgronotte1 well then thats okay. i was just exactly like you at first, but through curiousity, i then finally found the extravagant stuff that has been rarely played in documentaries and stuff like this. And he has such a diverse discography, i mean, REALLY diverse, he even had 60 albums released while he was alive and about 60+ more posthumous albums released until this very moment. He had covered so many styles that i am sure will get your minds blown, if you are into music production. The only other genius i could attribute the same characteristics as Zappa is Todd Rundgren
Well he was equally as interesting as a person as he was as a musician so it's not that weird, it's just too bad
@@michelvondenhoff9673 check out the live version on Mike Douglas (if you haven't already)
Maaaannn, I've always been amazed at how David Gilmour's solo in "Time" is, effectively, him reciting the lyrics of the song... just through a guitar. Absolute poetry without a single human voice.
No it's not because the lyrics are sung in 7/8 whereas Gilmour's solo is in 4/4 because he wasn't able to deliver it in 7/8. Yet some ignorants think this guy is a genius.
@@mojoblues66genius isn’t being being able to play in 7/8 or any other weird ass time signature. Genius is being able to record something that resonates with millions regardless of technical abilities. That said you completely overlook the fact he sings the ONLY 7/4 song to ever be a billboard hit🤦♂️ just because you don’t like him doesn’t mean he isn’t genius. I can’t stand most of zappa’s music, but no doubt he was a musical genius.
I believe you're thinking of Money, not Time. Money is in 7/8 until the guitar solo. Time is in 4/4 the entire time@@mojoblues66
Genius is knowing that Time is not in 7/8 lol
When I think of 70's rock, the unique sound that always comes to mind is that of the band Boston. The heavy guitars, the duet solos, Brad Delp's angelic harmonies.
Would've loved to hear them in this video.
Tom Schulz is a very underrated guitarist too, full agree
Boston paved the way less in music itself (though it was still pretty good) and more in production. Their self-titled album sounds like the first 80's album, despite being made in 1976.
Boston's first two albums were a large part of my childhood music appreciation. And while Scholz is just as known for his organ (and other keyboard) playing as for his guitar work, I've always thought that the solo at the end of Hitch a Ride specifically is a criminally underappreciated one that could stand among the all-time greats. It's certainly among my favorites to this day, even if there are others that are flashier, more iconic, or more novel in approach.
@@bmac4the beginning of AOR.
to me is "wishbone ash" always been my fav twin guitarists of hard rock 70's, even you can ask steve harris
When I saw Rory's check shirt at the end, I teared up. He's always been my favorite and I love seeing him get the recognition he never got when he was alive, but likely wouldn't have cared about even if he had. Thank you for this project..
you know who really never gets recognition? buck dharma of blue oyster cult.
Seeing Taste's live performance on Isle of Wight from 1970 is what forced me to buy a guitar, he's too good
@@xanderbucher9625 True that, Veteran of the Psychic Wars live 10/9/1981 is a perfect example, the rendition is just insanely, mind blowing, good. I was hoping to see it on the video. You can check it out on youtube.
@@gilbertovampre9494 i know it. its on the extraterrestrial live album
Man, the 70s was such a golden age of music, not just guitar solos, but everything. I feel like there's an endless list of great artists and bands in so many genres.
Most of the songs that are generally considered 'greatest of all time' come from 70s
Absolutely. The same thing can be said of the 70s films. Some of the best come from that decade.
@@JackOwens exorcist and alien were revolutionary, not even 80s could top those 2. But when it comes to movies, I feel like the 90s were golden era for the cinema.
Godfather, Taxi Driver, Star Wars, Jaws, Halloween, One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest etc are from the 70s. Some good stuff. Although I'll agree a lot of it is must a matter of personal taste.
Survivor bias imo
But it was indeed an interesting time in terms of fine artistry mixed with experimentation being mainstream
Glad to see Steve Howe mentioned. He had so many incredible moments during Yes’ classic period. Not to mention how his skills went beyond just the electric guitar.
we've always said if you find yourself singing along to the guitar solo, you've given the instrument it's voice. The power to speak without saying a word always gives me chills. It demands your attention but also earns it.
Fancy Meeting You Here, and also agreed completely
Agreed, one of many that comes to mind is 'Since Ive been loving you' by Jimmy Page.
If you'd like an album of very singable solos, may I recommend _American Garage_ by Pat Metheny Group?
Well said!
So glad I was in high school in the early 70s. I got to experience all this as the record albums hit the stores. It makes being old now worth it! 😂
So jealous. We had lots of good stuff coming out when I was in high school (2018-2021) but the experience was waaay different than what you had. People in the 70s got to fully live not worried about their every move and word being surveilled and recorded on the internet. Led Zeppelin couldn’t have hurt too lol
Yes, the 70s was awesome.
you're beautiful
I’m in to my 7th decade. Nothing comes close to the 70’s
No social media no youtube no iphones... COMPUTERS THE SIZE OF YOUR ROOOM THAT YOU CAN'T TAKE WITH YOU! What did you guys do all day? No wonder everyone got on drugs!
The craziest thing about Elliott Randall's solo on Reelin' in the Years is that he just came in, read the lyrics to get a sense of the feeling of the song and just whipped it out of nowhere but they didn't record it since they thought he was just practicing. Then he just played it again one more time and that was it, perfection.
Yep on a Tele with humbuckers too! Iconic solo among many iconic Steely Dan solos. Don't Take me Alive! Larry Carlton
It's worth checking out the Bros Landreth cover of that song too, absolutely lives up to the original
@@jperryfan It was not recorded on a Tele
It was on his custom 1963 Strat with a '69 PAF Humbucker, covers off, in the neck position
To maximize the warm and singing tones found here
Randall has commented on this multiple times and its even all over his own site too
To anyone curious about Rory Gallagher, check out his band from the 60s, Taste. Their 1970 Isle of Wight Festival performances were truly electrifying. Seeing Taste's live performances of What's Going On and Sugar Mama on RUclips back in 2019 was what made me stick with guitar when I felt like I wasn't getting anywhere. Both of their albums and Rory's first two solo albums are awesome. I also must say that Rory's saxophone playing is beautiful.
I'd add "Irish tour 74" to that, some absolutely amazing playing on that. Videos of those live shows are on youtube for anyone intereseted.
A deep dive on live Stairway solos is so fulfilling. Never played the same twice, dozens as good as Earl’s Court May 25th
And likely dozens even better funnily enoigh
Saw Brian May live in Toronto last month it's like walking into a dream when he plays live
Love the mention of Hackett. His recognition as one of the greatest guitarists of the 70s is long overdue. It would be great to see your take on the work of Genesis in a standalone video. Great video :)
Steve is one of the elite level of guitar players who's just as amazing acoustically as they are electrically, his intro to Blood on the Rooftops is just sublime.
Just had the pleasure of seeing Steve in DC last month. He sounds better than ever, with a fantastic band. Such a brilliant guitarist, and by all accounts a wonderful and humble guy
@@aurinrakkun8589 agreed. his acoustic work was brilliant
@@johnhoerl7326 sounds amazing - I saw him in London a year ago for the foxtrot at 50 thing and he was great
I feel like I was born at the right time to enjoy the glory days of the guitar solo. Page, Perry, Nugent, Gilmour, EVH, Randy, Zakk and every one from the late 80s were all people that I got to enjoy in real time.
Eddie Hazel on Maggot brain is next level🤟🏼🎶
I'm way happy that you mentioned Zappa for a video on solos. Dude had some of the best chops in the game
Probably should've mentioned Tom Scholz of Boston. He's responsible for many guitarists' sound profile and some of his solos are truly insane (like the one from Hitch A Ride)
Thank you for highlighting Rory Gallagher. I had the pleasure of seeing him live three times and he put on awesome shows every time. I saw a lot of shows in the 70s, including most of the players you showcased here (alas, I was a bit too young for Hendrix!) and they were all great.
A little upset Gary Moore wasn’t mentioned. I believe he was already killing it in Thin Lizzy in the 70’s. He’s one of the absolute Greats with the most beautiful Vibrato you’ll hear.
George Harrison isn’t even mentioned either
Band of Gypsys is my favorite live record of all time. Machine Gun, Isabella, classics.
Great compilation of guitar musicians. One stand out omission, for me, would be Peter Green. Rarely can a guitarist make his instrument talk and communicate quite like he did in Albatros and Green Manalishi with a grateful nod to Danny Kirwin.....a very young but talented member of young Fleetwood Mac.
The solo from Comfortably Numb is one the very best solos ever. Not the most technical, but so many emotions in this song and in the solo. It's extraordinary
Say no more...
"Watermelon in Easter Hay" is so hauntingly beautiful!
It is cool to see Steve Hackett get some love and attention for His groundbreaking guitar work.
He was one of the first to finger tap the fretboard around 1971.
Man.. being a guitarrist myself, left handed and in a Genesis Cover Band.. I mean, it really borught tears in my eyes. PS: Kudos to putting Hakket tapping before EVH.
Are you still performing ? In which country ?
@@vratyadeleon1928 hi! I do play, bit the Genesis Cover band is on hyatus now. It’s Genesis Archives, check out our laser concert with an orchestra
I can only imagine the hard edit in this video is because of copyright drama. I've always said this channel is so risky in what's heard in the story telling. What I've noticed with Page in his live playing the solo's are rarely ever the same. They are all adventures on the fretboard. Jimmy would go off so far in the solo wilderness you wondered how he managed to return to the song. He really had a flare and had no fear of getting lost when in his solos. The players who imitate Page tend to stick to the rules and never drift too far away from the recorded solos.
I just love how Page starts the Stairway solo. So much taste on it!
My two favorite soloists are Clapton & Page. They always seemed to make great choices that fit the song itself.
My favourite guitarist is Andy Latimer of Camel. He can play as fast as anyone, but normally just plays wonderful, melodic and emotional solos.
Hackett is also a genius. His solo on Firth of Fifth is incredible.
As for Rory Gallagher, you may not have heard of him in the States, but in the UK, he's a legend.
25 minutes in and i was loosin hope, but then my prayers were answered and you gave Rory some time in the spotlight. I'll always be convinced he's the greatest, tying with Stevie Ray and Eddie.
Jeff Beck had one of his greatest decades of playing in this era, where was he in this?
Stevie Ray, Jerry Garcia and a few others that were missed.
I've played guitar for over 40 years and today I've been introduced to both Frank Zappa - Watermelon In Easter Hay, and Eddie Hazel / Funkadelic - Maggot Brain. Epic!
Wow!
"Can you think of another song, any song, for which, when its first chord is played, an entire audience of 20,000 rise spontaneously to their feet, not just to cheer or clap hands, but in acknowledgement of an event that is crucial for all of them?"
Grateful Dead playing Dark Star
Don't forget Lil Wayne's guitar solo.
I was waiting for Jerry to get a mention too - his style was incredibly original.
When I went to concerts in the 70s and 80s the crowd loved the solo's. We lived for them. The place was like a cloud of smoke anyway and the solos were mesmerizing.
What a huge oversight not to mention Robin Trower- one of the 70's finest guitarists, a big act in the 70's and also hugely influenced by Hendrix who you frequently mention. What a shame.
After all these years I am still discovering hidden gems from the 70s. It was an era of musical experimentation and long improvisations that still managed to be fun. The electric guitar ruled that era above all else.
A heartfelt thank you for including Rory Gallagher. An absolutely underrated gem of a musician.
If the first 30 seconds or so of “Irish Tour” doesn’t stand your hairs up, check your pulse and call a physician because something is wrong with you.
Anyone who likes Rory is instantly my friend. So, hey there friend! Also thanks Polyphonic!
Unfortunately he can't even pronounce his name right.
The kicker about "Eruption" was that it was Eddie Van Halen just warming up! Someone happened to record it.
I have no comments on the content itself, because I'm speechless. I'm just commenting to praise your work. Thank you!
Hi @Polyphonic, let me start off by saying this is an amazing video that I bet was rather challenging considering the sheer number of amazing guitar solos in the 70s. I'm not sure how often you read the comments underneath your videos, let alone take suggestions from random people, but there's been something that's captivated me as of late and I can't think of a better person to do a video on it than you.
UFO is considered one of the best underrated bands out there, and what I find particularly intriguing is their first 2 albums, which are often overlooked; UFO 1 and UFO 2: Flying. They were released in 1970 and 1971 respectively, and feature some of the best space and heavy rock I've ever had the pleasure of listening to, especially the latter one. These two albums are far more experimental in contrast to their later works (which are far more streamlined) and were done by the original lineup which featured the guitarist that preceded Michael Schenker. His name is Mick Bolton, and despite the talent and potential you hear in their early work, he just... disappears?
I couldn't find anything about him beyond his work with UFO, but maybe I lack the research skills you and your team have. I think it makes for an interesting video and I'm really curious to hear your thoughts on the matter; if not in a video, then hopefully in a comment. Songs like Star Storm and Flying are journeys in and of themselves, not too dissimilar to Pink Floyd's Echoes or Zeppelin's Achilles Last Stand. Truly makes one wonder what else they could've done had they kept the original lineup intact, and if there are similar works out there by other bands that have been buried under the sands of time.
My fave live Zep moment (that I've only really seen through youtube videos cuz im a youngin) was in their latter years (maybe 75-78), Jimmy was doing an extended solo and someone in the audience shouts "get on with it" very audibly, Jimmy just starts playing louder and more insane and goes on for another few minutes before getting back into the song
Watching this video I suddenly realized that the guitar solos, especially the most complex ones, were an important part and in some cases they became historic and inspiring for future generations. They are no longer important for the music industry. In many cases, if the music is simple or less complex, it will be more successful for the masses.
as a teenager i loved The Stranglers & Tangerine Dream but on a school trip bus in 1978 I 1st heard Ritchie Blackmores’ bonkers lead solo in Highway Star from the original Made in Japan. That & Alex Lifeson on La Villa..on Hemispheres had me hooked on heavy Rock or Prog etc
Love the Lindsey Buckingham shoutout, have always thought he's underrated among the pantheon of great guitarists
His acoustic work on the Buckingham Nicks album is unbelievable. Especially on songs like Frozen Love
Great job. Bummed you didn’t mention any of Alex Lifeson’s work during this. Then I realized you are waiting to you him in the next video.
I know Tom Sawyer is the popular choice, but on Red Barchetta, he really evokes the feeling of flying down the open road in a fast car.
dude SAME. Lifeson gets lost between to absolute masters of their instruments but he is one of the most creative soloist of all time. YYZ, Subdivisions, Tom Sawyer, fkn SPIRIT OF THE RADIO ! how could he leave out RUSH?!
That beginning lick on the solo of Red Barchetta is SO GOOD
Was looking for other Lifeson fans down here in the comments. XD
La Villa Strangiato is Lifeson's masterpiece; Freewill is another favorite of mine
@@JubaDeMetalAlumínio those would also be good picks.
God damn, you just went through the list of my favorite bands, one by one. I could cry.
Good commentary; not bloated or rhetorical. Just about the right time length. Good collection of masters. I always miss Rik Emmett of Triumph in these mentions of great guitarists.
Rory Gallagher!! One of my heroes!!!!
The reason his Strat had its unique finish was because of Rory's blood type. Rory's sweat acted as paint thinner and stripped the lacquer and finish off of his Strat.
Rory's live albums are where he shined. I would recommend anyone start with Gallagher's "Irish Tour." It's a great live album. The back to back of the ballad "A Million Miles Away" and the stormer "Walking on Hot Coals" show Rory's skills. He was the real deal.
BS. Please elaborate how different blood types affect sweat composition and how that dissolves lacquer…🤦♂️
"You've e got a piece of time and you have to decorate it".. perfect quote from zappa there!
Absolutely flabbergasted that there was no mention of Rush and Alex Lifeson or Grateful Dead and Jerry Garcia.
Interesting, I think of Zappa as a technical musician, but, a spontaneous playful guitarist. (As your quote would seem to show) He did, after all, hire Steve Vai to play parts he wrote but could not play.
Zappa’s auditions were BRUTAL
He called vai his stunt guitarist I think haha.
@@jacksonbarker7594 Yes, Vai is even credited as such on the album covers
the guitar is overdue for a renaissance in popular music.
how, what is there new to explore or do you just miss 'the old days'.
i feel like we’re already getting that, even if guitar solos aren’t super popular right now
70s was the renaissance
@@anuraggdeshpande286nah just a progression of what came before it
Animala as Leaders? Polyphia? Winery Dogs? There are tons of other guitar based bands popping ip everywhere. I think COVID actually got tons of younger people into guitar. Keep looking. It may not be in the top 100 lists as much, but there is great guitar music everywhere.
This video is so much better done than others of its type. I can't stand cheap remake guitar rock content. This one does it so well and I'll be sharing it as I can.
Jazz Fusion guitarists are on another level. They are by far the most technically proficient players out there. Al Dimeola, Allan Holdsworth, John McLaughlin, Frank Gambale, and the one and only Shawn Lane are not that well known outside guitar circles but they are up there as one of the best
Great compiliation. Glad you mentioned Rory Galagher. Didnt see Clapton or Stevie Ray Vaughan. Eric Clapton solo on Layla is one of the most iconic ever in my opinion.
I was fortunate enough to see Rory Gallagher open for Rush back in the day. Good call!
R.I.P. Hendrix, EVH, Zappa and all the great guitarists mentioned who are no longer here
OOF that comfortably numb bit got chopped?
shoulda nebula'd
Rory Gallagher has some of the best live albums of all time, Irish Tour 74 shows how naturally the guitar came to him.
Im glad i got to see Rory in concert. He opened up for j geils band, i think
one of the best things about videos like this is that I get to see where a lot of my favourite musicians got their own inspirations from. every time I hear a Robert Fripp or Hendrix clip I think 'oh this is where John Frusciante got it from' in the best way
Thank you for unlocking the gem that is Rory Gallagher for me. I’ve never heard about him until today.
glad to see rory gallagher mentioned at the end!!! this video and series is absolutely awesome!! and huge shoutout to brian raine for the original music, it's just great and really fits the videos
Thank you polyphonic for remembering rory gallagher, its about time he gets more recognition along with gary moore, gallagher is insane on his shadow play live solos
I grew up listening to my Dad’s curated collection of rock music from the 60s and 70s. Each distinct style of every musician, with specific instruments and instantly recognizable riffs, felt like hearing a voice and knowing exactly who it was singing.
When I got into my 20s, I embraced other genres that relied heavily on the guitar. Heavy metal, punk, emo, and more recently the rock-ier side of Jpop and K-pop. I suppose that in America and the UK, the guitar had its golden age in the 70s. But I feel it would be utterly remiss to neglect Scandinavian and Asian music genres that have taken that baton, that have RUN with it and continued evolving the guitar solo into something new
Whoa! Your dialog got clipped at Pink Floyd's "Comfortably Numb" and Zappa's "Montana."
Gilmore’s and Zappa’s publishers are very quick to invoke copyright claims
I to stumbled upon Gallagher about 23 years ago. Yep, Napster era. It was a great tool to discover new music. I actually would go purchase the album I like after. I know not everybody did that. Gallagher (and you pronounced it right with a silent g) was a true Irish bard!
I remember when Desire by Meg Myers came out in 2014 and that has an AMAZING guitar solo. I thought maybe we’d have a renaissance, but we get the great solo just here and there still. Makes them even more special when they do pop up!
The quality of these videos is crazy. Starting to get in the same neighborhood as a Ken Burns doc
You'll never convince me that the studio recording of Sultans of Swing isn't the pinnacle of guitar work. It's absolute perfection. the rhythm, the cadence, the tone.
It’s alright 🤷🏼♂️
Brothers in arms is peak guitar imo
Romeo and Juliet and Tunnel of Love, too.
Theres a guy in my friend group who always steals the aux at every party to put sultans of swing on 🤣
Polyphonic you always make me happy. The guitar solo is one of the things I live for. When I am alone and playing my Les Paul I go into a solo I pulled out of the air and get lost for 10 minutes or more and I think of all the Polyphonic videos I have seen. You feed me what I need. Thank you so much. Life is good!! ❤
I wish you would do something about Bonnie Raitt and her slide guitar solos and how she achieves them. She is one of my guitar heroes.
Great stuff as always.
I do think you overlooked two guitarists that must be, imo, in such a video.
First one is Jeff Beck, who like Rory appears on the mt Rushmore of many many talented and famous guitarists. Beck implemented Bluesy solos that were more popular in Rock music as you told, in funky and jazzy rhythms, basically inventing Red Hot Chili Peppers' entire style (a hyperbole, but you know what I mean). His solos inspired probably every guitarist in the next decade and the emergence of Hair Metal.
Second one I want to mention is Andrew Latimer from Camel. An absolute staple of prog rock. Their 1975 album The Snow Goose is to prog rock basically what Dave Brubeck's Time Out is to jazz. It is one of the first records you will ever listen to when venturing into the genre. Latimer embeds his solos throughout the orchestral arrangements and for many people was the first time they heard distorted guitars in such a "classical" setting.
If you go over the comments and read this, would love to hear your thoughts about them.
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I was going to say good job with highlighting most of the big names from the 70's but it boggles the mind how you neglected to mention one of the greatest prog bands of all time "Rush". Lifeson checks all the boxes more than most and was a huge influences on guitarist. I'm glad you mentioned Rory Gallager who generally gets missed but another name to add to "most underrated" is Frank Marino, who imo should be ranked as one of the greatest guitar players of all time.
Really pleased to see Rory in their he never gets the recognition he deserves greatest of all time in my opinion
Thank you for being through enough with the Zappa research to highlight WIEH!
Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Page and Eddie Van Halen, probably the three most important guitarists to ever exist, hence the greatest for me.
Well said my man
Jeff Beck tops them all
@@chrisbyrne5358Even Jeff Beck admitted that he was sad when Clapton and Page overshadowed him.
@22:28 "...wicked fast notes..." to most of the world, that is a descriptive term. To Bostonians it is a technical designation. And we salute you for it!
I know you can’t capture everything, and this is an awesome video! That said, could be worth mentioning the rise of dual (sometimes triple) harmony solos - like Thin Lizzy & Boston. That style of harmonies becomes diffuse through the 80s (eg, Maiden).
George Benson, Larry Coryell, John McLaughlin, Pat Martino, Jimi Hendrix, Jeff Beck, Johnny Winter, Santana, Frank Zappa, Allan Holdsworth, Pat Metheny, Steve Howe, Jan Akkerman, Al Di Meola, Gary Boyle, Steve Hillage, Jukka Tolonen, Coste Apetrea, John Scofield, John Ethridge, Tommy Bolin, Frank Gambale, Andrew Latimer, Robert Fripp, Rory Gallagher, Elvin Lee, Roy Buchanan, Philip Catherine, Steve Morse, Buckethead, Shawn Lane, Bireli Lagrene, Jimmy Herring and many others (Jazz, Fusion, Jazz-Rock, Blues, Blues-Rock, Prog, Hard-Rock)
I love that you've recognized Zappa in this video ! I love his work and I'd love to see you cover more of his work .
All of those bands are probably why myself have always been huge on writing solos with my bands, Animal Ally and Mortal Wrath definitely have some tasty solos on each one of our songs, thanks to influence and inspiration from the greats 🤘
Strictly speaking, Page’s double-neck is not a Gibson SG, it’s an EDS-1275.
An underground great that should definitely be highlighted around this time is Mizutani from the Japanese psychedelic band Les Rallizes Denudes. '77 Live is one of the most foundational performances to all of noise rock, and Mizutani's soloing throughout their closing rendition of "The Last One" makes it one of those songs that genuinely does not feel real.
Go listen to '77 Live.
Hazel, Zappa and Rory Gallagher in a video. You were cooking in this one Polyphonic
Thanks man, Rory Gallagher is in the top 3 players for me and many who play that style, love his touch on the strings.....
Great overview! This genera is my jam and I'm proud that there wasn't a song or album that was listed that I hadn't known. Still gives me goosebumps to this day even though I've listened to them all dozens of times by now.
I still love buddy Holly’s quick little solo’s along with song La Bamba. Would of been a great show to see back in the day.
Awesome, but wish you added a blurb about jerry Garcia/allman bros. for that branch of rock :) love your channel!
POLYPHONIC…… you do your research thoroughly You are absolutely incredible. Thank you for this post.
This maybe a tragedy but i had never listened to maggot brain before and it’s the most powerful thing i’ve ever heard
Managed to make a song that ends with fireworks
I was yelling play freebird in 1997.... Its been a running gag as long as I can remember. My dad grew up in Redding California, in 1978 he was 19. He has his original van Halen concert Tshirt from the first show, of the first tour ever. He played guitar so i grew up listening to everyone you listed in the video, and several more, Eric Johnson, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, thats not even counting any of the local bands that played at the bar he was half owner of.....
If you ever run across Baby Jason and the spankers, those guys had a heck of a show.
No Gary Moore, Scott Gorham and Brian Robertson from Thin Lizzy 😢. The dual lead guitar work was amazing. Not to mentioned the solos those guys could belt out
Amazing video! Your videos are always so well done. However, I did hope to see Alex Lifeson on here. Definitely one of the most unique guitar players and solo performers.
You should also have checked out the original guitarist of Chicago, Terry Kath. Hendrix was even quoted saying ¨He is better than me¨
Terry was incredible. What a tragic death too...i can't even imagine.
Zappa is my all time favorite guitarist. Glad this video gave him the credit he deserves and, unfortunately, so often lacks. From ‘73-82 I think he was the best guitarist in the universe. He wasn’t bad in ‘70-‘72 or ‘88 either.
As a musician and guitarist myself, I have this feeling that the world is getting hungry for guitar music again & I’m excited for that.
I ALSO enjoyed his solo on COMFTOR