I remember either reading or listening to him say that he recorded a solo for a Cars tune(don't remember which one) alone in his garage onto tape then brought that tape into the studio and it timed up perfectly.
I say that all the time. Can't believe he's 68 years old that means I must be getting real old LOL. Anyway one of the most underrated guitar players to be sure but he's probably the most underrated left-handed guitar player ever
@@ysam1960 You got me by 20 years and i feel old. But in my young childhood I remember my brother turning me on to The Cars. Had to be early 80s and they just had a different sound from everyone else. Loved those guys. Still do of course.
In this man's hands, it's the electric guitar as it was intended to be played by its inventors. The sheer genius and precision of Eliot Easton gave Cars their iconic sound.
The solo on Touch and Go is my favorite from Elliot Easton. That said he never played a bad solo. Very underrated, but true guitar fans know he's one of the best. 🤘
Funny, hearing just the guitar. Sounded like it could have been from a rockabilly tune from the late 50's. There was so much nostalgia packed into "New Wave".
Holy shit. I dialed in these tones for Elliot for him when I worked at Line 6 lol. It was me, the video guy, the AR rep and him. That was it. Truly magical.
Awesome story. What players want to know is though, how did he get the sounds (exact amp model and exact settings) and where can we download it. Strange demo since he doesn't exactly explain how he did it. There are some really bad patch downloads out there for Helix which sound nothing like the record.
I’m a hard rock and classic metal kinda guy and I must say, Elliot Easton is one of my absolute favorite guitarists of all time. He is the epitome of a guitarist that plays EXACTLY what the song needs. No more, no less. Such a musical and tasty player. Huge influence.
Well put! He was almost perfectly economical yet could bring the flash if it was needed for the song. He may be severely underrated to the casual listeners, but almost all serious guitar players know all about Elliot Easton.
@@mikeymutual5489 what's wrong with it, genius? How/why am I wrong? Easton NEVER shows up on any "goat" or "top" lists. If you criticize someone's comment but can't articulate a correction then it just means you are full of shit. Is some other guitarist MORE underrated? Who? Allan Holdsworth? Martin Barre? Andy Gill? Those three guys never get mentioned either.
@@craigdamage Do you even know what the word "underrated" means? No, you do not. Yet, you use that word like you are some kind of expert about everything, when you don't even know the meaning of English words. If you want to make an argument, start with it making some sense.
Yes, Easton and Campbell probably don't get the credit they deserve, but within the music industry both are as respected as any. They didn't shred for 3-minute solos or anything like that, but their solos were always perfect for the songs and well-timed. They were also both very tight, mistake-free, in live shows -- certainly not something to be taken lightly. I also think Gary Richrath of REO Speedwagon falls in the category of underrated as these other two.
Guy is a freaking musical legend. I don't think he's overlooked or underrated at all. Anyone who as ever listened to the cars knows what an amazing guitar player he is.
Not underrated among players of a certain vintage - but he's never really been a household name or a staple of "best of" lists, despite sprinkling magic dust all over so many classic pop songs. Not only are his solos divine, but what gets me even more is all the licks he adds throughout a song which always seem perfect and not flashy.
@@boohiss I agree with you that those from that era (70's - 90's) knows this guy is the real deal. Maybe not known so much from newer musicians. But the guy is just as good as what I would consider to be the any of the top guitarists from that area (Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Lindsey Buckingham, Mark Knopfler, etc.). He is one of the tightest, tasteful, and technical guitarists from that era. Yes, perfect and not overpowering! 🙂
I met Elliot in the early 80's working at a truckstop where I was a cook. The Cars had just rode in on their tour bus at the height of their career and he was incredibly nice and humble. I was too awestruck to get an autograph but a great memory none the less.
@Little luke Got to meet a few artists while they were on tour. I think most were just happy to get off the bus lol. The Alarm, drummer from Culture Club and quite a few others as well. Pretty sure Elliot got some mashed potatoes, no gravy and a piece of chicken too.
Something about his bends is so awesome. The speed of the bend, the vibrato and tonality are unmatched by anyone else. No two guitarists sound the same. I love Elliotts playing!
Elliot's guitar genius was such a major part of the Cars sound. The fact that they all came together at that point in history to make the group is divine intervention. We all reaped the benefits.
Elliot is the guitarist that can see a chord in his mind and simultaneously emulate a riffy 8 to 10 second interpretation of it within the Cars song, and fit it perfectly everytime. That's musicality, that's brilliance. ❤️
Elliot Easton is definitely one of rock's most underrated players. He cleverly sneaks country and jazz and licks into his melodic rock solos. And the best thing about his solos? They all tell a musical story - and they have a beginning, middle and end.
Mr. Easton:. You'll never read this, of that I'm certain:. But as you've said:. " When we came out with our album, I was hoping and would have been happy if it's sold 100 copies". Well, imagine that..... platinum. A cazillion Copies. So who knows....perhaps I will indeed hear from thee one and only greatest guitarist ever..... I just want you to know that you all came on the scene in 1977, when we were all mere teens, and blasted out our speakers thru High School, college, military enlistments, marriages, children and now we are all senior citizens on AARP. You, and the band, immortal on film and recordings forever, will be around for generations to come, long after we are all crossed over. Your love and appreciation of Ben, outstanding, and the three of you that now remain are so very valued. I just wanted to thank you Elliott. Your one very talented artist and may your riffs, strumming, picking, plucking and playing continue the rest of our days. So under rated. Thank you for every valued creative, addicting note. Be well Mr. Easton. Chances of meeting you this side of things, virtually zero, but I hope to at least salute you and shake your hand on the other side.....A very dedicated true blue fan, Laurel Wood
This artist was way way ahead of his time. So underrated. This is a true creative talent. So individual, so creative, so unique. 1 of 5, each and all played his part in being the infamous band that they were, are, will be to up and coming generations, and forever will be the one and only sound that only THE CARS had and have. Thank you Elliott. Thank you Ric, Ben, David and Greg. Life is way too short. Thank you for going thru my teens, mid life and senior citizen years with me. THE CARS:. WERE ALL STILL WATCHING, LISTENING AND TUNED IN. OH, TIME STAND STILL.....OR AT LEAST LETS GO BACK AND START AT 1977 AGAIN. I WISH.
He still plays those solos to perfection. He is an amazing guitarist. His solos complimented the music as well as the vocals, and were never overplayed, just what the song needed. I grew up on the music of the 70's and 80's and The Cars were one of my favorite groups. Elliot's great guitar work was a key part of The Cars' great sound.
I worship at the feet of Easton, a guitarist of tremendous taste and, most of all, economy. But Touch and Go can NOT sound the same without putting more distance between mic and amp. Legend has it Panorama was recorded in a house, I believe. I read years ago Easton placed his amp at the top of a flight of stairs and put the mic somewhere down the steps. That softened the distortion and created "space," for lack of a better word, for the solo. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Touch and Go one of my all time favorites. Wore two cassette out, listening to it over and over on my Walkman lol. Thanks for the flashback. The Cars were a huge part of my youth,and remain to this day looking forward to the new release!
Criminally underrated guitarist. He shines on the whole Candy O album. Candy O, Nightspots, You can’t hold on too long, Got a lot on my head, and Dangerous type. He shreds on all those songs.
Biscuits Forsmut There you are, I knew I would find you and it didn’t take long at all. It’s the guy in the comment section that always, no matter what, insists that whoever is being featured in the video is “underrated “. I call it the underrated fad or the underrated bandwagon. And there you are!! I like the slight spin you used with criminally underrated instead of the tried and true most underrated.
Oh! Just to shake your hand, salute you, bow down, and THANK YOU for the best sounds that ever came out of any Guitar anywhere. You are thee most talented, original, creative, humble of all . Thank you for making our teens, high school, college, military enlistments, marriages, children and now as senior citizens on AARP better. Your life long, Elliot, and immortal on film and recordings forever for generations yet to come, long after were all gone. Forever THE CARS. Ben gone way too soon, and Ric too sudden and unexpectedly. Thank you Elliott, Greg and David. Be safe and stay well. I hope only to meet you and thank you in person before this lifetime is over. A loyal grateful fan, Laurel Wood.
It’s All I Can Do is one of my favorites. Have yet to find a live performance of it…heard it wasn’t one the band liked playing live. If anyone has seen Elliot sample that somewhere, would love to see & really appreciate the information!
"shake it up" and "touch and go" are my top two favorites but really, any solo that he performed in any of the "cars" songs were not only great but just fit each song perfectly
that's right let's go. Er..let the good times roll. bring a long your line 6 amp and we'll hit the night spots on the town really shake it up. get yourself moving in stereo..just watch out for your Best Friend's girl I know tonight she comes. she's the dangerous type.
Elliot has always been amazing and The Cars are one of the greatest rock bands of my time - but that "Touch and Go" solo ... I bought Panorama after hearing "Touch and Go" and wore out that song and got excited to hear that guitar solo. The rest of the album grew on me in time, but more after Ben's death.
When Panorama came out I brought it home and put on the headphones. I was disappointing in the 1st song and then Touch and Go came on. I thought it was bizarre and was not liking it but it changed in the pre chorus. When the guitar solo came I could not wipe the smile off my face. That is one moment from 40ish years ago that I so clearly remember.
My dad showed me this song wile going to a reck baseball game in the 1st grade and it’s stuck with me for well over 9 years and i still love it like it’s the first time hearing it much love for the cars
Great band...too bad non of their records have the absolutely super punch that candy-o has.....I wish all their records had that thundering bass .....what happened??
Elliot has a nice staccato that I can only come close to with a very hard pick or a quarter. Even still it's very snappy and and difficult to duplicate. Very underrated guitarist indeed. One of the best.
Oh it’s so good... No matter how many times I hear him play I’m always so impressed!! He’s just so cool, I’m proud to say he’s my favorite guitarist. 💘
Emilie B there is no underestimating the impact that the Cars had when Best Friends Girl jumped out of the radio. The only other time that hit was with Nirvana
Emilie B Isn’t it a blast to hear him play after all these years. I remember being a young musician and guitarist were absolutely in love with his plane! An obvious Guitar icon for sure.
Emile, could not agree more with you ... Double E knew how to put in the right solo for so many great Cars songs and he and the group richly deserve to be "Hall of Famers"
Elliot goes down in my Top 5 all-time list, primarily because HIS SOLOS were AS MELODICALLY integral to each song as every verse, chorus, & bridge ever sung in the band. You actually “SING” the solos in your mind no differently than humming the vocal melodies. PRECIOUS few guitar players have had that kind of contribution to their respective bands. I invite anyone to name others in this rarified air (e.g., early Lifeson comes to mind). Discuss ... 😄✌️
CthulhuOO7 ... Wow. Glad I stumbled back on this vid while in the “bargaining” phase of my grief over Ocasek. You listed three PERFECT examples there! ✌️👍👏👏 Great to know other people notice & appreciate that rare talent ... just surprises me how few guitarists (no matter their virtuosity) don’t/can’t have that kind of consistency. It’s gotta be genetic. (*Oh! Steve Lukather just popped into mind. And many don’t know he was used over Roger Steen in The Tubes’ “She’s a Beauty,” too ... to add to his examples.)
In the same way a loving parent knows their kid and knows just what they need at the correct time, Elliott knew exactly what kind of solo the song needed without overdoing it to the point of being self indulgent and overpowering.
Four years later so you may not see this, but Rick Beato recently (late 2023) interviewed Nuno Bettencourt from Extreme and Nuno said pretty much the same thing, stating that Easton may be one of the greatest lead guitarists of all time for that reason.
I was in a band that rehearsed a couple of doors down from the Cars’ rehearsal room in the Cambridge Music Complex during the late 70’s. I was given a bunch of Candy-O guitar picks that I shared with my friends. Good memories. RIP Ben.
@@DaleHEmery In 1979/1980 I was 16/17. I was playing in a cover band with guys who were about 4 years older than me. We covered several Cars songs. Unbeknownst to us Elliott must have heard us and according to the security guard who monitored the security cameras, returned with his guitar and a PigNose battery amp. He played along standing just outside of our door. The other memory I have was listening to the Cars rehearsing songs for Panorama. The room we had cost us around $200.00. It was the size of a closet. The room the Cars had was probably one of the biggest. I recall it had enough room for a large mixing board.
Ronald Jones I do not. I saw them coming and going but never what they drove. I remember when you entered the building there was one or two pinball machines to the right near the security booth. There was also a diner next door that most of us used to go there to eat. I left the band about 6 months after being there. The keyboardist of the band I was in went on as the keyboardist for The Dream which later became Xtreme.
Even though The Cars were considered New Wave, Elliot's guitar playing kept the sounds contemporary rock, not allowing them to sound too punk or pop-syth in the day and making them a timeless gem in music history. One of my favorite bands loaded with talent.
Elliot, don't ever let them tell you that you weren't one of the "GREATS". In my book, nobody did it better with so much shared time. You got in, you got out; pouring out many years of practice and excellence. The Cars? Easily one of the best bands of the late 70's early 80's. You guys came along at just the right time. Losing Ric yesterday was a tough one. I don't shed a lot of water from my eyes, but when I heard of his passing, I grabbed a box of Kleenex. Best songwriter EVER.
True about Nuno. I briefly played drums with him in a band in Hudson, MA in the early 80s. We'd all hang around at a friends house and listen to The Cars, Journey, Night Ranger, etc. Everyone tried to sing along with Steve Perry.
If Elliot is reading this I just like to say that you are simply one of the best and likeable guitarists ever. Your guitar-work is really perfect in each song you touch. Thank you years for great music!
the "touch and go" solo is one of my favorites ........ I remember when seeing live footage of the Cars just how good and accurate his Elliot's guitar work was!!!!
Congratulations on being inducted into the Music Hall of Fame! Long overdo. You are one of the top 10 lead guitarists in my opinion. Your sound, lead riffs, and style is immediately identifiable, and unique. A pleasure to listen to for decades still, and I always looked forward to them when I listened to The Cars. I also admired how Ben would humbly take a few steps back, as you worked your magic. Thank you for your great enduring music!
Adrian Reyes Wow, there are a shit load of people in this comment section making the same worn out “ underrated “ comment. Its amazing at how fast this trend has grown in the last few years. Every musician out there is the most underrated ever. How they can all be the most underrated ever is a mystery , but if you read the comments, you will see that it is somehow true.
@@afterburner2869 I agree. It is overused, guilty as charged. But, I think it comes from the fact that Rolling Stone, and other guitar musician magazines takes it upon themselves to vote who THEY and their expert panelists feel is the top flavor of the century,... every year. They put so much emphasis on this ranking aka "rating" that many count it as fact. I look at those almost every time, just to see out of curiosity who they feel like disregarding. I look for Elliot. As is almost always the case, Elliot doesn't even crack the top 20, which is mind boggling. He is extremely well versed in various music styles, and likes to sneak them in his riffs without most even realizing it. (punkers enjoying Rockabilly without even realizing it). Not even Roy Clark cracks the top 20, and he arguably could be considered one of the best. Ric Ocasek worked with countless talented guitarists, and you should hear what high praises he laid upon Elliot in an interview, and his unique style. I think that is why the term under-rated comes about. We feel, and know he well deserves more accolades, more publicity, higher "ratings", but apparently they have some other standard. Regardless, we can listen to him as much as our hearts, and ears desire.
Adrian Reyes Your response to my comment is lucid, well thought out and chocked full of reasons why you made your original comment. You are obviously not one of those guys making that comment because he feels the rest of the world should think like he does. I appreciate the way you articulated your reasons and I must say, I support your conclusion. RUclips is filled with people making the same old most underrated comment to the point of adnauseam. You actually walk the walk and for that I say point well taken👍🏻.
There are well known guitarists who won't play alone like that because it doesn't sound as good without the bass and the rest of the music, but this guy does and it's so cool.
Please stop saying that Elliot Easton is an underrated guitar player. He is highly acclaimed and respected worldwide by all sorts of audiences and musician peers, and very deservedly so. His creativity, sensibility, elegance and skills are the signature of The Cars' sound. On top of of that, he is the nicest and most humble gentleman.
@@mikeymutual5489 I won't go so far as to call them drooling idiots, but for f***'s sake, commenters, _please_ stop saying that every effing thing you like is underrated. Just because someone isn't a household name doesn't mean they're underrated.
Been playing guitar most of my life, constantly watching and listening and guitar content, including other guitarists citing their favorite musicians and who’s inspired them etc, I have friends and band mates who play guitar and I almost never hear him mentioned. For a guy who’s solos are played daily over and over on rock stations and people think it’s Rick or Benjamin playing lead idk seems pretty underrated. Not to mention one of the band mates who gets Credit for his solos was on bass half the time that’s pretty sad. Idk if you’re nitpicking the definition or something but if someone like Elliot isn’t underrated by 99% of peoples understanding of the word, aka the colloquial de facto definition then idk what to tell you.
Probably never mentioned in most people’s list of favorite guitarists; I think Elliot is one of the most intuitive stylists out there. No phone ins here. Always very well thought out phrasing in my opinion. Respectfully
To play killer leads and complex riffs in top 40 hits is no small feat. Elliot blends them into the music so well the audiophiles pick it up yet the casual listener is not overwhelmed. Fantastic Guitarist!
Your Songs are of my youth , touch and go was one of my favorite tunes . Wore that cassette out in my Cvcc little driver .Look foreword to getting into the new stuff.
Elliot Easton deserves to be mentioned anytime we’re talking about some of the all-time greats in rock guitar history.
I agree, for most people when they see clips like this its always "who knew"
Elliot Easton was and still is an underated guitar player. The Cars NEVER would have been the same without him.
Not by me. The Cars would not have been period without him.
Massively underrated...squeaky clean too
I remember either reading or listening to him say that he recorded a solo for a Cars tune(don't remember which one) alone in his garage onto tape then brought that tape into the studio and it timed up perfectly.
Amazing player. Fluid, melodic and a sense of humor.
They sold 30 million records. Not underrated. I would say not as "famous" as others.
One of the most underrated guitarists. His solos were money!
Bye bye love solo kicks ass
Magical!
Doing less than more for his solos was perfect with the cars
I say that all the time. Can't believe he's 68 years old that means I must be getting real old LOL. Anyway one of the most underrated guitar players to be sure but he's probably the most underrated left-handed guitar player ever
@@ysam1960 You got me by 20 years and i feel old. But in my young childhood I remember my brother turning me on to The Cars. Had to be early 80s and they just had a different sound from everyone else. Loved those guys. Still do of course.
In this man's hands, it's the electric guitar as it was intended to be played by its inventors. The sheer genius and precision of Eliot Easton gave Cars their iconic sound.
Maybe you haven’t noticed, everyone here loves Elliot Easton with a passion.
The solo on Touch and Go is my favorite from Elliot Easton. That said he never played a bad solo. Very underrated, but true guitar fans know he's one of the best. 🤘
Your taste in solos is impeccable! The one in Touch and Go is sublime.
Comparto tu opinión, ese riff uno de los mejores!
Agree 100%
💯
Funny, hearing just the guitar. Sounded like it could have been from a rockabilly tune from the late 50's. There was so much nostalgia packed into "New Wave".
Holy shit. I dialed in these tones for Elliot for him when I worked at Line 6 lol. It was me, the video guy, the AR rep and him. That was it. Truly magical.
Awesome story. What players want to know is though, how did he get the sounds (exact amp model and exact settings) and where can we download it. Strange demo since he doesn't exactly explain how he did it. There are some really bad patch downloads out there for Helix which sound nothing like the record.
He's such a musical player. So melodic.
Elliot Easton, low profile guitar hero. Amazing Vibrato ability and plays in a very musical style.
I’m a hard rock and classic metal kinda guy and I must say, Elliot Easton is one of my absolute favorite guitarists of all time. He is the epitome of a guitarist that plays EXACTLY what the song needs. No more, no less. Such a musical and tasty player. Huge influence.
TheAxe4Ever just what the song needed right?!
Cosmic Pomegranante AHHH!!! I see what you did there! 👍🏻
Exactly right!!
@@tedb1015 i agree...from Ted P lol
Well put! He was almost perfectly economical yet could bring the flash if it was needed for the song. He may be severely underrated to the casual listeners, but almost all serious guitar players know all about Elliot Easton.
the guy is a hook master. Incredible playing.
the hook cook , just the right blend of ingredients to get totally tasty tunes
I was searching for the words to say about this guy and "hook master" really nails it.
most criminally underrated guitarist in rock history. Period.
Did you think of that brilliant comment all alone? SMH
@@mikeymutual5489 what's wrong with it, genius? How/why am I wrong? Easton NEVER shows up on any "goat" or "top" lists. If you criticize someone's comment but can't articulate a correction then it just means you are full of shit. Is some other guitarist MORE underrated? Who? Allan Holdsworth? Martin Barre? Andy Gill? Those three guys never get mentioned either.
@@craigdamage Do you even know what the word "underrated" means? No, you do not. Yet, you use that word like you are some kind of expert about everything, when you don't even know the meaning of English words. If you want to make an argument, start with it making some sense.
Nobody ever said Elliot wasn't great...??
@@billydeewilliams9104 Exactly!
Criminally underrated. This guy and Tom Pettys lead man made the 80s.
Mike Campbell, THAT is Tom Petty's lead man, now he's playing with fleetwood Mac .
Agreed.
Yes, Easton and Campbell probably don't get the credit they deserve, but within the music industry both are as respected as any. They didn't shred for 3-minute solos or anything like that, but their solos were always perfect for the songs and well-timed. They were also both very tight, mistake-free, in live shows -- certainly not something to be taken lightly. I also think Gary Richrath of REO Speedwagon falls in the category of underrated as these other two.
I like Berton Averre from The Knack too.
@@dkb21 Yes, good call on Berton!
This gentleman put together some the most musically creative and sonically delicious solos ever recorded. Always great to hear him play.
Way under rated guitar player
Agree one-hundred percent.
Sonically delicious? Love it!! It fits!
willssonline well put!
Guy is a freaking musical legend. I don't think he's overlooked or underrated at all. Anyone who as ever listened to the cars knows what an amazing guitar player he is.
Not underrated among players of a certain vintage - but he's never really been a household name or a staple of "best of" lists, despite sprinkling magic dust all over so many classic pop songs. Not only are his solos divine, but what gets me even more is all the licks he adds throughout a song which always seem perfect and not flashy.
@@boohiss I agree with you that those from that era (70's - 90's) knows this guy is the real deal. Maybe not known so much from newer musicians. But the guy is just as good as what I would consider to be the any of the top guitarists from that area (Eric Clapton, David Gilmour, Lindsey Buckingham, Mark Knopfler, etc.). He is one of the tightest, tasteful, and technical guitarists from that era. Yes, perfect and not overpowering! 🙂
Elliot makes every note count. To this day "Just What I Needed" might just be my favorite all-time solo. Criminally underrated is an understatement!
Probably one of the greatest guitar solos of all time, a masterpiece in and of itself!
@@timnewman1172 1000%!
Congratulations on using the most overused comment on YT. You whats truly criminally underrated? Originality 💩💩💩💩💩💩💩💩
Neck and neck with TnG, for me.
Also, his solo on " you're all i've got tonight" is incredible.
I met Elliot in the early 80's working at a truckstop where I was a cook. The Cars had just rode in on their tour bus at the height of their career and he was incredibly nice and humble. I was too awestruck to get an autograph but a great memory none the less.
@Little luke Got to meet a few artists while they were on tour. I think most were just happy to get off the bus lol. The Alarm, drummer from Culture Club and quite a few others as well. Pretty sure Elliot got some mashed potatoes, no gravy and a piece of chicken too.
When you say 80s Truckstop all I can think of is Maximum Overdrive.
@@glanemann LOL I wish. Although we did have many a great times there so hard to say I didn't also enjoy it and we had an awesome crew too.
Good story!
That would have been an awesome experience, especially now looking back!
Loved when him and Benjamin used to play next to and smile 😊. Benjamin with that wonderful smile.
The cars are one of those bands that truly have a unique sound
This guy rules. Everyone should know this guy's name. Incredible.
Something about his bends is so awesome. The speed of the bend, the vibrato and tonality are unmatched by anyone else. No two guitarists sound the same. I love Elliotts playing!
Wonderful player, his solos are so memorable and well composed. Thank you Mr. Easton for the great music over the years.
Elliot's guitar genius was such a major part of the Cars sound. The fact that they all came together at that point in history to make the group is divine intervention. We all reaped the benefits.
I totally agree…I’ve often told this to my music buddies..
a definite ‘harmonic Convergence,
Dang, those licks are so seamless in the song you totally overlook how awesome they are. Dudes a monster.
Agree
He's got the most crazy unique style. No one plays guitar like he does.
Elliot is the guitarist that can see a chord in his mind and simultaneously emulate a riffy 8 to 10 second interpretation of it within the Cars song, and fit it perfectly everytime. That's musicality, that's brilliance. ❤️
Elliot Easton is definitely one of rock's most underrated players. He cleverly sneaks country and jazz and licks into his melodic rock solos. And the best thing about his solos? They all tell a musical story - and they have a beginning, middle and end.
Mr. Easton:. You'll never read this, of that I'm certain:. But as you've said:. " When we came out with our album, I was hoping and would have been happy if it's sold 100 copies". Well, imagine that..... platinum. A cazillion Copies. So who knows....perhaps I will indeed hear from thee one and only greatest guitarist ever..... I just want you to know that you all came on the scene in 1977, when we were all mere teens, and blasted out our speakers thru High School, college, military enlistments, marriages, children and now we are all senior citizens on AARP. You, and the band, immortal on film and recordings forever, will be around for generations to come, long after we are all crossed over. Your love and appreciation of Ben, outstanding, and the three of you that now remain are so very valued. I just wanted to thank you Elliott. Your one very talented artist and may your riffs, strumming, picking, plucking and playing continue the rest of our days. So under rated. Thank you for every valued creative, addicting note. Be well Mr. Easton. Chances of meeting you this side of things, virtually zero, but I hope to at least salute you and shake your hand on the other side.....A very dedicated true blue fan, Laurel Wood
Elliot Easton....one of the all time greats! Such an innovator!
Some of the best and most original lead runs in the best decade of my life, the 80’s. Thank you Elliot.
Nice to see a well known musician giving an insight into his work
I forgot how sick and perfect his solo for "Touch and Go" was. Matter of fact, most of his solos are like that. So good, so tasty.....lol
The dangerous type...
He doesn't hit the first high note! WTF?
Other spot on solos - Nightspots, and Candy-o. Love how he adopted Eddie VH’s tapping method.
Agreedd....love playing that solo even now
Even Dave Mustaine said Elliot Easton wrote some memorable tasty guitar solos. This guy took The Cars to a whole new level.
This artist was way way ahead of his time. So underrated. This is a true creative talent. So individual, so creative, so unique. 1 of 5, each and all played his part in being the infamous band that they were, are, will be to up and coming generations, and forever will be the one and only sound that only THE CARS had and have. Thank you Elliott. Thank you Ric, Ben, David and Greg. Life is way too short. Thank you for going thru my teens, mid life and senior citizen years with me. THE CARS:. WERE ALL STILL WATCHING, LISTENING AND TUNED IN. OH, TIME STAND STILL.....OR AT LEAST LETS GO BACK AND START AT 1977 AGAIN. I WISH.
I was in junior high when the cars exploded on the scene. Definitely one of my favorite bands
Such a sweet gentleman, very talented and a true artist. His solos are signatures for each Cars song, melodic and memorable. One of the greats :-) x
He still plays those solos to perfection. He is an amazing guitarist. His solos complimented the music as well as the vocals, and were never overplayed, just what the song needed. I grew up on the music of the 70's and 80's and The Cars were one of my favorite groups. Elliot's great guitar work was a key part of The Cars' great sound.
I worship at the feet of Easton, a guitarist of tremendous taste and, most of all, economy. But Touch and Go can NOT sound the same without putting more distance between mic and amp. Legend has it Panorama was recorded in a house, I believe. I read years ago Easton placed his amp at the top of a flight of stairs and put the mic somewhere down the steps. That softened the distortion and created "space," for lack of a better word, for the solo. That's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Touch and Go one of my all time favorites. Wore two cassette out, listening to it over and over on my Walkman lol. Thanks for the flashback. The Cars were a huge part of my youth,and remain to this day looking forward to the new release!
Beatles,Cars,REM😎
I grew up on Elliot Easton’s playing and have always loved his style, touch, tone, and sound. Timelessly tasteful playing.
Some of the most memorable solos of the era. Such a hook master. I think him and Mike Campbell have a lot in common in this regard.
It’s so nice to see Ric left his wig to Elliot so it can keep on rockin!!
Criminally underrated guitarist. He shines on the whole Candy O album. Candy O, Nightspots, You can’t hold on too long, Got a lot on my head, and Dangerous type. He shreds on all those songs.
Biscuits Forsmut There you are, I knew I would find you and it didn’t take long at all. It’s the guy in the comment section that always, no matter what, insists that whoever is being featured in the video is “underrated “. I call it the underrated fad or the underrated bandwagon. And there you are!! I like the slight spin you used with criminally underrated instead of the tried and true most underrated.
Oh! Just to shake your hand, salute you, bow down, and THANK YOU for the best sounds that ever came out of any Guitar anywhere. You are thee most talented, original, creative, humble of all . Thank you for making our teens, high school, college, military enlistments, marriages, children and now as senior citizens on AARP better. Your life long, Elliot, and immortal on film and recordings forever for generations yet to come, long after were all gone. Forever THE CARS. Ben gone way too soon, and Ric too sudden and unexpectedly. Thank you Elliott, Greg and David. Be safe and stay well. I hope only to meet you and thank you in person before this lifetime is over. A loyal grateful fan, Laurel Wood.
My personal favorites were his solos on “It’s all I can do” and “shake it up”.
It’s All I Can Do is one of my favorites. Have yet to find a live performance of it…heard it wasn’t one the band liked playing live. If anyone has seen Elliot sample that somewhere, would love to see & really appreciate the information!
"shake it up" and "touch and go" are my top two favorites but really, any solo that he performed in any of the "cars" songs were not only great but just fit each song perfectly
@@ladystrange7791 SAME!!! :)
Touch And Go! One of the best solos known to humankind.
That's it, I've had enough... I'm buying a Line 6 amp! I think it will be just what I needed
AARRRR.........lol.
Aaron Shepherd I see what you did there
that's right let's go. Er..let the good times roll. bring a long your line 6 amp and we'll hit the night spots on the town really shake it up. get yourself moving in stereo..just watch out for your Best Friend's girl I know tonight she comes. she's the dangerous type.
@@paulandrews331 Hey, you're not my best friends girl are you? llol.
Who's gonna drive you home with your new amp?
Dude is a shredder... I loved The Cars when I was a kid....still go back to them. Elliot has some amazing licks... killer and underrated player
The man who opened my eyes to how much can be done in a short 8 bar guitar solo
one of the best at writing a solo. never did too much or too little during lead breaks. just right every time.
Yesss tasty solos 👍
Elliot has always been amazing and The Cars are one of the greatest rock bands of my time - but that "Touch and Go" solo ... I bought Panorama after hearing "Touch and Go" and wore out that song and got excited to hear that guitar solo. The rest of the album grew on me in time, but more after Ben's death.
When Panorama came out I brought it home and put on the headphones. I was disappointing in the 1st song and then Touch and Go came on. I thought it was bizarre and was not liking it but it changed in the pre chorus. When the guitar solo came I could not wipe the smile off my face. That is one moment from 40ish years ago that I so clearly remember.
My dad showed me this song wile going to a reck baseball game in the 1st grade and it’s stuck with me for well over 9 years and i still love it like it’s the first time hearing it much love for the cars
Great band...too bad non of their records have the absolutely super punch that candy-o has.....I wish all their records had that thundering bass .....what happened??
Just what i needed is his best, rip benjamin orr.
Their live aid was ace.
The second best Orr to play in bean town!
Yes, R.I.P. Benjamin Orr
RIP Ric Ocasek too now
Elliot has a nice staccato that I can only come close to with a very hard pick or a quarter. Even still it's very snappy and and difficult to duplicate. Very underrated guitarist indeed. One of the best.
One of the most under rated player ever. His solos are magical.
Those who say he was or is underrated obvious put him there in that category for someone to mention it.
Literally every notable guitar player has been described as "underrated" by someone at some point in time.
To this day I’m still listening to the Cars in 2020. Very awesome sound
Such a fab player- great band. Always drop everything to pay attention to an Elliott solo- they’re always one of a kind. ⚡️
Elliot & Alex Lifeson are probably the two most underrated guitarists ever.
also CC deville
no compare
@@soofitnsexy LOL yea ok kid
@@ytr3488 older then u son
You are so right!
Oh it’s so good... No matter how many times I hear him play I’m always so impressed!! He’s just so cool, I’m proud to say he’s my favorite guitarist. 💘
Emilie B there is no underestimating the impact that the Cars had when Best Friends Girl jumped out of the radio. The only other time that hit was with Nirvana
Ya notice he's left-handed when he plays. Not too many rock guitarists are left-handed. He is awesome!
Emilie B
Isn’t it a blast to hear him play after all these years. I remember being a young musician and guitarist were absolutely in love with his plane! An obvious Guitar icon for sure.
Emile, could not agree more with you ... Double E knew how to put in the right solo for so many great Cars songs and he and the group richly deserve to be "Hall of Famers"
dass cuz u crazy yo' :[) LoL
Unsung hero of the guitar. He’s solos are so well thought out, always being true to the underlying harmony.
An incredible connector of hooks and solos in a song the guy is genius
Every song has Elliot's signature on them, and they are al memorable!
Elliot goes down in my Top 5 all-time list, primarily because HIS SOLOS were AS MELODICALLY integral to each song as every verse, chorus, & bridge ever sung in the band. You actually “SING” the solos in your mind no differently than humming the vocal melodies.
PRECIOUS few guitar players have had that kind of contribution to their respective bands. I invite anyone to name others in this rarified air (e.g., early Lifeson comes to mind).
Discuss ... 😄✌️
Lifeson, Gilmour, May. These are my huge influences for that very reason, and I have always put Easton in there as well.
CthulhuOO7 ...
Wow. Glad I stumbled back on this vid while in the “bargaining” phase of my grief over Ocasek. You listed three PERFECT examples there! ✌️👍👏👏
Great to know other people notice & appreciate that rare talent ... just surprises me how few guitarists (no matter their virtuosity) don’t/can’t have that kind of consistency. It’s gotta be genetic.
(*Oh! Steve Lukather just popped into mind. And many don’t know he was used over Roger Steen in The Tubes’ “She’s a Beauty,” too ... to add to his examples.)
In the same way a loving parent knows their kid and knows just what they need at the correct time, Elliott knew exactly what kind of solo the song needed without overdoing it to the point of being self indulgent and overpowering.
Four years later so you may not see this, but Rick Beato recently (late 2023) interviewed Nuno Bettencourt from Extreme and Nuno said pretty much the same thing, stating that Easton may be one of the greatest lead guitarists of all time for that reason.
Absolute monster on guitar. Touch and Go amazing.
One of the best in the world. He is absolutely amazing!
I agree.
Eliot you’ve been making my soul smile for over 40 years now
I was in a band that rehearsed a couple of doors down from the Cars’ rehearsal room in the Cambridge Music Complex during the late 70’s. I was given a bunch of Candy-O guitar picks that I shared with my friends. Good memories. RIP Ben.
Roaming Gnome Private Lightning also rehearsed there. Remember them?
Dale H. Emery That sounds familiar. It was so long ago. Did you rehearse there too?
@@DaleHEmery In 1979/1980 I was 16/17. I was playing in a cover band with guys who were about 4 years older than me. We covered several Cars songs. Unbeknownst to us Elliott must have heard us and according to the security guard who monitored the security cameras, returned with his guitar and a PigNose battery amp. He played along standing just outside of our door. The other memory I have was listening to the Cars rehearsing songs for Panorama. The room we had cost us around $200.00. It was the size of a closet. The room the Cars had was probably one of the biggest. I recall it had enough room for a large mixing board.
Someone showed me your comment. Did you ever see a white Volvo there?? Ric loved his Volvo. Haha ;)
Ronald Jones I do not. I saw them coming and going but never what they drove. I remember when you entered the building there was one or two pinball machines to the right near the security booth. There was also a diner next door that most of us used to go there to eat. I left the band about 6 months after being there. The keyboardist of the band I was in went on as the keyboardist for The Dream which later became Xtreme.
Even though The Cars were considered New Wave, Elliot's guitar playing kept the sounds contemporary rock, not allowing them to sound too punk or pop-syth in the day and making them a timeless gem in music history. One of my favorite bands loaded with talent.
I could watch this guy play guitar solos all day. He’s that good!
Elliot, don't ever let them tell you that you weren't one of the "GREATS". In my book, nobody did it better with so much shared time. You got in, you got out; pouring out many years of practice and excellence. The Cars? Easily one of the best bands of the late 70's early 80's. You guys came along at just the right time. Losing Ric yesterday was a tough one. I don't shed a lot of water from my eyes, but when I heard of his passing, I grabbed a box of Kleenex. Best songwriter EVER.
Such an underrated guitar player. You never hear anybody mention him as an influence, except for perhaps Nuno B. Easton is just cool.
I do..i did. ;)
I hear what you're saying. I totally agree. Slash gave him props in his book.
True about Nuno. I briefly played drums with him in a band in Hudson, MA in the early 80s. We'd all hang around at a friends house and listen to The Cars, Journey, Night Ranger, etc. Everyone tried to sing along with Steve Perry.
Marty Friedman said he was an influence in one of his instructional videos
Ed roland from collective soul has eliot as his favorite guitarist, and the cars as his favorite group
Loved this guy's playing all through his career. To be shown his tricks by him is a special treat.
If Elliot is reading this I just like to say that you are simply one of the best and likeable guitarists ever. Your guitar-work is really perfect in each song you touch. Thank you years for great music!
Damn. Just plain ole awesome. Glad I grew up in this era. Cars sound was magic, from all members.
the "touch and go" solo is one of my favorites ........ I remember when seeing live footage of the Cars just how good and accurate his Elliot's guitar work was!!!!
These solos are blowing my mind, even without the rest of the songs around them! 🎸💥🎇
King of the 10-second solo!
Well said. Packed so much into short bursts.
George Harrison. Mike Campbell. Lots of guys do that.
I like short solos
@@FYMASMD
not lots of guys...short list,
millions of of albums sold, relevant to this day, check yourself young troll
Elliott and The Cars are true legends. Few can compare.
We used to cover some Cars back in the day. Elliot's parts were always a joy to play.
Genius. Legend. Very underrated guitarist.
Elliot! Easton! Always loved your work and the Cars! This was just great.
Just What I Needed and Touch and ago are my favorite Cars songs and Elliott’s work on both are wonderful additions.
Ther'es a reason why Elliot was always referred to as the "Hook Master".
UGH such iconic sounds. God it's so pure beautiful rock. Just what I needed. Is what the CARS always were on the radio. Fabulous guitarist.
Love the Cars.Thank you for sharing your musical genius Elliott!👏👏👏👏
ELLIOT YOU ARE SO UNDERRATED, I'VE BEEN A CARS FAN SINCE '78 AN ALWAYS ADMIRED YOUR PLAYING... YOU ARE AWESOME DUDE!!!!!!!
Always loved Elliot's instantly recognizable playing style, which, as others have said, never got the full accolades it deserved!!
Great guitar player . Been listening to the cars since 1979. One of my favorite bands of all time!!! Elliot Easton is amazing
Congratulations on being inducted into the Music Hall of Fame! Long overdo. You are one of the top 10 lead guitarists in my opinion. Your sound, lead riffs, and style is immediately identifiable, and unique. A pleasure to listen to for decades still, and I always looked forward to them when I listened to The Cars. I also admired how Ben would humbly take a few steps back, as you worked your magic. Thank you for your great enduring music!
Agreed! Elliot and Ben anchored their side of the stage brilliantly and tastefully. Everyone was a wonderful player in a great band.
Adrian Reyes Wow, there are a shit load of people in this comment section making the same worn out “ underrated “ comment. Its amazing at how fast this trend has grown in the last few years. Every musician out there is the most underrated ever. How they can all be the most underrated ever is a mystery , but if you read the comments, you will see that it is somehow true.
@@afterburner2869 I agree. It is overused, guilty as charged. But, I think it comes from the fact that Rolling Stone, and other guitar musician magazines takes it upon themselves to vote who THEY and their expert panelists feel is the top flavor of the century,... every year. They put so much emphasis on this ranking aka "rating" that many count it as fact. I look at those almost every time, just to see out of curiosity who they feel like disregarding. I look for Elliot. As is almost always the case, Elliot doesn't even crack the top 20, which is mind boggling. He is extremely well versed in various music styles, and likes to sneak them in his riffs without most even realizing it. (punkers enjoying Rockabilly without even realizing it). Not even Roy Clark cracks the top 20, and he arguably could be considered one of the best. Ric Ocasek worked with countless talented guitarists, and you should hear what high praises he laid upon Elliot in an interview, and his unique style. I think that is why the term under-rated comes about. We feel, and know he well deserves more accolades, more publicity, higher "ratings", but apparently they have some other standard. Regardless, we can listen to him as much as our hearts, and ears desire.
Adrian Reyes Your response to my comment is lucid, well thought out and chocked full of reasons why you made your original comment. You are obviously not one of those guys making that comment because he feels the rest of the world should think like he does. I appreciate the way you articulated your reasons and I must say, I support your conclusion. RUclips is filled with people making the same old most underrated comment to the point of adnauseam. You actually walk the walk and for that I say point well taken👍🏻.
@@afterburner2869 Thank you! Much appreciated! I try!
Elliot was being modest when he said "I just hope I get it right".... If he cannot do it then I expect no one can
There are well known guitarists who won't play alone like that because it doesn't sound as good without the bass and the rest of the music, but this guy does and it's so cool.
I don't know anything about playing the guitar but this video just made me smile from ear to ear! As a Cars fan this was just a pure joy to listen to!
Thanks for all the great memories Elliot. You were part of one of the greatest bands of the 70s and 80s
OMG love his solos AND riffs--no one sounded like him
Always loved the Cars. I was there for these songs and bought Cars tapes as they were released.
Please stop saying that Elliot Easton is an underrated guitar player. He is highly acclaimed and respected worldwide by all sorts of audiences and musician peers, and very deservedly so. His creativity, sensibility, elegance and skills are the signature of The Cars' sound. On top of of that, he is the nicest and most humble gentleman.
Yes, but he's not usually mentioned when people speak of guitar heros.
Yeah, but that would take some actual thought and knowledge of music. Most RUclips commenters who say that are drooling idiots.
@@mikeymutual5489 I won't go so far as to call them drooling idiots, but for f***'s sake, commenters, _please_ stop saying that every effing thing you like is underrated. Just because someone isn't a household name doesn't mean they're underrated.
@@BassByTheBay It is the buzzword for the ignorant and lazy.
Been playing guitar most of my life, constantly watching and listening and guitar content, including other guitarists citing their favorite musicians and who’s inspired them etc, I have friends and band mates who play guitar and I almost never hear him mentioned. For a guy who’s solos are played daily over and over on rock stations and people think it’s Rick or Benjamin playing lead idk seems pretty underrated. Not to mention one of the band mates who gets Credit for his solos was on bass half the time that’s pretty sad. Idk if you’re nitpicking the definition or something but if someone like Elliot isn’t underrated by 99% of peoples understanding of the word, aka the colloquial de facto definition then idk what to tell you.
One great musician that will always be remembered forever. I wish you a long life! And God bless you and your family.
Big fan of this fabulous guitar player. Love his solos in the music of The Cars
Probably never mentioned in most people’s list of favorite guitarists; I think Elliot is one of the most intuitive stylists out there. No phone ins here. Always very well thought out phrasing in my opinion. Respectfully
To play killer leads and complex riffs in top 40 hits is no small feat. Elliot blends them into the music so well the audiophiles pick it up yet the casual listener is not overwhelmed. Fantastic Guitarist!
Your Songs are of my youth , touch and go was one of my favorite tunes . Wore that cassette out in my Cvcc little driver .Look foreword to getting into the new stuff.
Highly underrated. An all time great tone master, for sure.