Honorable, honorable mentions: Heart - Barracuda, ZZTop - La Grange, Animals - House of the Rising Sun (I know, it isn't flashy or complex but what a set of chords), Hendrix - The Wind Cries Mary, The Hollies - Long Cool Woman
What honestly surprises me is that Rick has never covered the Smiths. Johnny Marr is such a unique, melodic guitar player and the Smiths music generally is phenomenal. Hope he does some videos on them, what an oversight!
Marr is brilliant. An important dimension to their music is the multitracking. You can hear three or four guitar parts on a lot of songs. Cemetry Gates is an excellent example. Their production is amazing.
I'd go with How Soon Is Now? as being the most classic when it comes to rhythm guitar. I know all songs are the culmination of many parts, but it feels to me that the guitar drives How Soon more than any other of their songs.
Rick is that uncle we all would love to have, he is a down to earth man with kindness, shareness,happyness, loveness to music and all of us to gets these amazing clips to tag along with. Good on you Rick! Greetings from Sweden.
The Mick Taylor/Keith Richards era of the Stones was by far the best music they ever did. Mick Taylor's self titled solo album is a "must have" for any collection - he's got some very amazing music on that one - particularly his instrumentals that would have done Jeff Beck proud, very beautiful music.
I was a little surprised that the master of the simple chord-rhythm song structure-- Tom Petty-- didn't appear on either the main list or honorable mentions. Lots and lots of examples....Runnin Down a Dream, Free Fallin', Mary Jane's Last Dance, You Wreck Me, Jammin' Me, Here Comes My Girl, Learning to Fly.... and on and on
@@JeanMarieMessaavid & Jerry Harrison at first, then Robert Fripp, Adrian Belew, Alex Weir There's a funny story that starts with Talking Heads and AC/DC spending time together at Compass Point studio in Nassau --- look it up
Hey! You seem kind of bothered here. Call them YOUR favourites, Rick! Nobody should argue with YOUR favourites. They should only offer THEIR favourites. Often, when I come here, you set my playlist for the day. So many wonderful songs that I can't recall them all at will. You bring all that enjoyment back. As my little island's most popular DJ is known for saying, "Too much hard tunes! Cyan (can't) play all!"
Never Going Back Again by Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac is a great, highly technical, unique part, carries the melody, and is underneath the singing. It's the quintessential rhythm guitar that fills all the requirements that Rick has laid out for this list.
He can't do that! Remember? Due to RUclips's strict community guidelines, which are constantly getting enhanced, the series can't happen anymore! I wanted him to do an episode on "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!", but I know it ain't gonna happen because Shania is a blocker!
Oh come on! Jumping Jack Flash! The sound of that guitar through that Vox amplifier is amazing. When you play it off vinyl it send electric shivers up any spine.
Good one. I'd go with Can't you hear me knockin. For us old Stones fans, Start Me Up sounded recycled when it came out and wouldn't be the one I'd pick.
Nile Rodgers' rhythm riffage on Diana Ross's I'm Coming Out is pure gold. And it fueled a second mega-hit 17 years later with Biggie's Mo' Money Mo Problems. Legendary.
That’s one of the earliest rock n roll chord based riffs popularized by The Who, AC/DC, Stones, etc. It ventured outside the Chuck Berry blues thing. It seems like it was unique at that time.
Both Pete Townsend and David Gilmore loved the unique tuning of the Beat’s “Save it for Later”, Pete doing a beautiful cover. Eddie Vedder and Pearl Jam also utilized it.
I suggested Bark at the Moon. I think Rick has a bit of a blind-spot with quality hair metal, where they were doing really unique stuff with rhythm guitar.
The acoustic guitar in Daughter of Pearl Jam!!! Amazing riff! But may I just say, Rick, you don't have to explain yourself or your choices, we don't care, we just looooove your videos!
I commented the same thing on the other recent Beato video. “Daughter” is a much more iconic and fun rhythm part (compared to “Dissident”), and like a couple of the other selections on the Top 20 list, “Daughter” is in an open/alternate tuning.
What you did was impossible from the beginning. You can continue this forever and say «I could done……” forever. To many good riffs out there to make a top list.
Glad to hear there might be some Deep Purple content on this channel because I think they are a band that has tended to be overlooked. Like Thin Lizzy, a band whose importance to a whole generation of artists often seems to go unrecognised.
Rick the only to talk is only for Zeppelin,Beatles,Van Hallen and others but is clear that he didn't like Purple witch is ok but not fair,if you know what i mean.
Blue Oyster Cult is also often overlooked. I'm glad he had Buck on the channel at one point, though. I love Deep Purple too. "Child in Time" is one of the best rock songs of all time, in my opinion. I have to admit I'm not familiar with Thin Lizzy aside from one song. As for newer music, I'd love to hear what he thinks of the Black Keys.
Man Lizzy does not get her due. They were a force of artistic style no one can touch. Lynott as a writer and frontman criminally goes by the wayside. Moore and Gorham arent ever mentioned among the great guitarists when they should be. And Downey is one of the greatest dummers imo
Why do people use the word underrated. The Doobie Brothers have sold enormous amounts of albums, are considered great by their peers. How does that make them underrated? Simple fact now is that the Doobie Brothers are not contemporary. The Doobie Brothers are just old. Deal with it. My favorites are old as well. But my favorites are not underrated because they’re old. People need to quit using underrated.
underrated? these groups like The Doobie Brothers aren’t underrated to the musicians and fans who grew up with them. too many times i’ve seen the term “underrated” equated to obliviousness of a musician’s discography.
@@brokl26 Underrated is not about album sales. It is about not acknowledging specific skills. For example, Prince, one of the most popular musicians ever, was for a long time an underrated guitarist. I would call Chris Hayes of Huey Lewis and the News a very underrated guitar player, despite the fact that Huey was huge in the 80s. Re Doobies: Road Angel. Wow, just wow.
Alex Lifeson has got to be my most fascinating guitar player I have listened to. The whole of the Moving Pictures album is outstanding. The reggae influence they got from The Police played a huge part. Hitch a Ride by Boston is fantastic.
Since you mntion The Police, how about the guitar in Every Breath You Take? Absolutely perfect adn Andy Summers is an incredible guitarist. Never overplayed even though he is exceptionally talented.
@@JimDuggan-tq2lv Too right Jim. He played some fantastic parts. He also had a sound of his own. In fact the whole band did. Pure melody. I think Brian May is somewhat underrated and another who had his own sound. You could always recognise a track that Brian plays on by his sound. Very unique.
Would have loved to see Heart on the list, so many great rhythm parts. Crazy On You, Barracuda, Love Alive, Even It Up, Down On Me, Rockin' Heaven Down, Back to Avalon, Lost Angel... to name a few 😁
@@lorigoshert6667 The only time I can recall is Rick choosing Nancy's intro to Crazy on You as his #14 Best Acoustic Intro of all Time. (And he did not attempt to play it, showing a video of her instead).
For me the ultimate rock rhythm groove performance is Message to Love, from the Band of Gypsys live record. Even when Buddy Miles speeds up for Jimi’s solos, and even when they slow back down for the verses, he never loses that fat back groove. The whole performance is smoking hot. It’s all there. Killer guitar rhythm riffs and fills to the insane solos.
Seems to me like no one talks about the guitar work in Blind Melon. Check out the rythm guitars on "Tones of Home", "Paper Scratcher", " Soak the Sin", "Soul One", "Toes Accross the Floor" or "Mouthful of Cavities". Interlocking riffs, acoustic riffs, and the Bass parts all just amazing.
Rick, I’m an extremely beginning 58 year old guitar player and even though you are light years ahead in terms of skill and knowledge, we’re near the same age and it is such a kick to me when you cover all those great songs that we came of age with (ie: More Than a Feeling, Jamie’s Crying, Roxanne, etc). Plus i love all bands from Zeppelin to Stevie Wonder, but The Beatles are the cream of the crop. Keep doing what you’re doing, it’s fantastic stuff! ps- Did you ever think in your wildest dreams you’d be interviewing in person the likes of Sting, Christopher Cross, and Peter Frampton??? :)
Ohhh, ohh, Lindsay Buckingham also, he is underrated, however he’s so creative both in electric and acoustic…but man we can go on forever on phenomenal, creative guitarists…thank you again for the wonderful content. I guess you can have part 1, 2, 3, 4 and so on when it comes to this subject.
I'm amazed that the Atlanta Rhythm Section doesn't get any love on this channel. Incredibly tight band, all across the board, and JR Cobb was the quintessential rhythm player to Barry Bailey's spot on lead lines.
Yes agreed…actually no southern rockers no Lynyryd Skynyrd, Outlaws, Marshall Tucker, Molly Hatchet, Blackfoot, ARS you mentioned, Allman Brothers, and others
@@TonyRichards while I know ARS is/was from the south, I hardly consider them southern rock in those terms. I have heard them referred to as “The Steely Dan of Southern Rock”, I think that probably fits them well. And I love southern rock, even recorded with some of those guys you've mentioned. But ARS was maybe a bit more refined than most SR bands, at least in my opinion.
Day Tripper: Now you know why Lennon favored his Ric 325, which had a scale length of 21.5": TWENTY ONE POINT FIVE INCHES!, making that riff, with its 'walking pinky bass-line" so much easier to play than on a full scale fingerboard! When JL bought that 325 in Germany in 1950, they were playing 8 hour club gigs in Hamburg, and he was probably doing a ton of Chuck Berry rock and roll tunes with 'walking pinky bass-lines', making the short scale Ric a perfect guitar for those shows... I always keep a short scale kicking around, you never know when you're gonna need one...
If Lennon bought a guitar in 1950 he would have been giggin' Hamburg at 10 yrs. old. I think you meant 1960. Always proofread before sending...peace out.
Loving that you've just learned Tom Sawyer! It's great that Alex Lifeson is getting some recognition - the guy's a genius. SO many of his guitar parts are extraordinary/weird/creative/unique. Would love to see you interview him & Geddy.
Not having anything by Johnny Marr on this list is nothing short of a crime! Come on; "This Charming Man", "How Soon is Now?", "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now" etc...
The rhythm guitar backing on Boston's "Smokin" propels the whole song. Tom Sholtz backs himself up on the Organ solo and then mute picking on the second pipe organ solo.
I enjoyed your list , Rick . Here are a few I would add -"Working for MCA" Lynyrd Skynyrd . "Who's behind the door" Zebra . "Carry On" CSNY . "Crazy Train" Blizzard of Oz . "The boys are back in town" Thin Lizzy . "Love don't stay here" Tygers of Pan Tang .
Bob Mould from Hüsker Dü played great rhythm guitar in my opinion. He could play incredibly fast while using many open voicings. He created a wall of sound with one guitar.
There’s a lot of punk guitarists from the 80s and 90s that could fit Rick’s criteria with a number of their riffs. D Boon, Ian Mackaye, Guy Picciotto, Steve Albini, Santiago Durango, Duane Denison, Justin Trosper, David Pajo, Rowland S Howard, Andy Kerr, Greg Ginn to name a few more.
For me, one of the toughest rhythm guitar parts is Dave Mason's "Only You Know and I Know". Sounds simple with a lot of right hand flourishes, but the open tuning, left hand movement and the flipping of the beat makes it a good one! Just my opinion.
Rick, You forgot to mention one creator of iconic rhythm guitar parts: U2's The Edge. I only mention "Bad" here, because of the obvious use of the the delay as an integral part of the rhythm. There's more of course. If You make a top 20 list, there's always something missing. So, no blame here. Looking forward to Your next video.
Totally agree. The Edge is the most glaring omission. Revolutized rhythm guitar and so unique. Pride in the name of love is literally the epitome of the criteria used for this video (unique rhythm part as backing for lyrics).
Revolutionized guitar by copying the sound David Gilmour used on several songs on the Wall? Was the part where he did the same tired trick over and over again the part that was revolutionary, or the whole tricking people into thinking he’s revolutionary?
Surely Steve Cropper should have been in there. Peter Gabriel said in 1979 that Paul Weller was the best young rhythm guitarist in the UK and got him in to improve And Through the Wire.
Biffy Clyro are masters of the intricate background riff. Simon is both singing and playing these complex riffs at the same time, and to see him do it live is mesmerising.
The Difference by Kings X deserves a mention here, the beauty and relentlessness of the rhythm guitar here matches the uniqueness on display in the other tracks, i think :) (great vid as always)
I think there are 2 artists/bands you missed on your list or in your honourable mentions. 1. U2 - the Edge. There are so many songs to choose from that are both unique and iconic. 2. Dave Matthews - has some of the most unique chord and rhythm/time choices in his catalog. Both would be on my list when talking about rhythm guitar.
"Down on the Corner" by CCR. Tom Fogerty was a simple rhythm guitarist but he was the musical glue that kept the group together. But that is definitely one of the funkier parts he ever played
I would have loved if Rick mentioned Michael landau, Dann Huff or Steve Lukather. They are all my Favorite rythm guitar players. An example would be Dann Huff's playing on Glory of love by Peter Cetera. There is a isolated track of it here on RUclips if anyone is interested. There is also Landau's part on Endless summer nights by Richard Marx. Fenomenal guitarist all of them!
Not saying he ought to be on the list, but I've always felt Incubus's Mike Einziger deserves more recognition in the guitar world for some of his rhythm part writing. There are so many unique and cool riffs outside of their hit songs that non fans may never ever hear but would probably get a real kick out of.
I think almost any rhythm guitar part by Bob Weir with Grateful Dead is a masterclass in rhythmic guitar overall. Even apparently easy songs like "One more saturday night" are amazing. Or all the Weir-written "Weather Report Suite" or "Lazy Lightning"....he's an underrated genius, he just knows every chord and can play any song i any spot on the fretboard..
I miss a song from the Smiths: Bigmouth strikes again, William it was really nothing, Still Ill, Handsome devil... They have plenty creative unique riffs that fit into Rick’s list.
You bet your ass it was Nile Rodgers. The baddest guitarist that most people have never heard of. And my personal hero. Read his book, fascinating story. And I agree with Doobs, Don Stop to Watch the Wheels Go Round. Great stuff, didn't know it was in D tuning. I used to play it in standard tuning.
Rory Gallagher was a master of Rhythm guitar (and everything else). Rick - when are you gonna do a deep dive in to the playing of Rory. His lead work, slide work and acoustic playing where off the planet. Now with his latest posthumous live Album out would be great time to introduce this artist to the wider American public!
Absolutely! There are few from that album, including "Venus" that immediately came to mind, when this video/topic came up. Tom & Richard are both severely underrated, especially their playing on that record. There are so many examples of "unique" (gross understatement) rhythm guitar parts on that album.
I am stunned you didn’t mention Hendrix. Some of the most unique rhythm playing of all time. Also Lindsey Buckinghams fingerpicking style is worth a mention.
He doesn't feature Hendrix much because whoever manages his music will block the video. Rick could mention him, but he wouldn't be able to play the music.
Lukather might as well have gotten songwriting credit, because many times his playing provided the glue and often the hook for the song... He is a true craftsmen.
Rick, your list was great. Honorable mentions are worth mentioning, however the list is huge and almost endless and not everyone will be satisfied. It’s mind blowing to think of all the incredible sounds and riffs musicians have made over the years. Our ears and souls have truly been blessed. Peace and love.
Yes, loved this list, specially the acoustic, I think Croce for sure deserves to be in this list Lover’s Cross, Time in a Bottle, to name a couple classic super songs with beautiful rhythm and then Bread as well, If and Make it with You have exquisite acoustic guitars.
No love for Jethro Tull? There are so many great rhythm guitar parts on the Aqualung, Minstrel in the Gallery, and Thick as a Brick records (as well as all the others,) they could fill a Beato video by themselves. 🤔
You forgot the following: I'm the One by AWB; Good Times by Chic; You Got the Love by Rufus featuring Chaka Khan; Good Times by Chic; Doin' It by Herbie Hancock; Love Rollercoaster by The Ohio Players.
not much diversity on his list. very vanilla. i mentioned elsewhere he negates the musicians whom are the inspirations for the people on his list! like Catfish Collins (Parliament’s Flashlight), Tony Maiden (Rufus’ Sweet Thing), Al McKay (EWFʻs Shining Star), and these OGs: Chuck Berry, JB, Cornell Dupree (Memphis Soul Stew w/ King Curtis),Jimi Hendrix (Power to Love), Bo Didley (Bo Didley), Jim Hall, and Jōao Gilberto (Desafinado).
@@somerset8088 i don't know of a way to link specific comments, but you should be able to find it. I posted it using this same account. This is what I wrote. "An interesting list. Very rock-focused. Nothing wrong with that I suppose. No "Sing a Simple Song" by Sly? "You Got the Love" by Rufus? "1999"? Hmm..."
I’m overwhelmed by the Johnny mart love in the comments, he is a legendary melodic chord writing rhythm guitarist. The first two seconds of how soon is now or this charming man are instantly recognizable
Loved your list, no complaints. Could have had some other Stone Temple Pilots songs in there. Army Ants, Still Remains, and Tripping on a Hole in a Paper Heart come to mind.
Gary Richrath: Ridin the Storm Out, Roll with the Changes, Back on the Road Again. Lonesome Dave Peverrit(sp?): Any Foghat song. Aaron Barrett: any Reel Big Fish song. Rick Nielson: Need Your Love, Surrender, Dream Police. All these guys play rhythm and lead awesomely.
Johnny Marr riffs would be an interesting and a unique challenge.
Honorable, honorable mentions: Heart - Barracuda, ZZTop - La Grange, Animals - House of the Rising Sun (I know, it isn't flashy or complex but what a set of chords), Hendrix - The Wind Cries Mary, The Hollies - Long Cool Woman
What honestly surprises me is that Rick has never covered the Smiths. Johnny Marr is such a unique, melodic guitar player and the Smiths music generally is phenomenal. Hope he does some videos on them, what an oversight!
Right! This night has opened my eyes, this charming man, how soon is now, and so many more great ones
Another vote for Marr and The Smiths 👍
Marr is brilliant. An important dimension to their music is the multitracking. You can hear three or four guitar parts on a lot of songs. Cemetry Gates is an excellent example. Their production is amazing.
I'd go with How Soon Is Now? as being the most classic when it comes to rhythm guitar. I know all songs are the culmination of many parts, but it feels to me that the guitar drives How Soon more than any other of their songs.
Big BAng Baby, Gimme Shelter, Brown Sugar, Get Back , Layla, over under sideways down,
Rick is that uncle we all would love to have, he is a down to earth man with kindness, shareness,happyness, loveness to music and all of us to gets these amazing clips to tag along with.
Good on you Rick! Greetings from Sweden.
Little Guitars is probably my favorite of Eddie's playing. It goes through so many changes and colors all throughout the song.
Can’t You Hear Me Knocking ,Keith and Mick Taylor share phenomenal parts.Keith especially knocks it out of the park.
I agree I've never been a die hard Stones fan but I love Can’t You Hear Me Knocking it's one of the most tasteful and melodic guitar solo's ever.
Now that song rocks! Indelibly printed on my brain from my youth - great suggestion!
The Mick Taylor/Keith Richards era of the Stones was by far the best music they ever did. Mick Taylor's self titled solo album is a "must have" for any collection - he's got some very amazing music on that one - particularly his instrumentals that would have done Jeff Beck proud, very beautiful music.
Yep,best intro ever
@@lastdaysguitaryou are right. By far my favorite period of the Stones
I was a little surprised that the master of the simple chord-rhythm song structure-- Tom Petty-- didn't appear on either the main list or honorable mentions. Lots and lots of examples....Runnin Down a Dream, Free Fallin', Mary Jane's Last Dance, You Wreck Me, Jammin' Me, Here Comes My Girl, Learning to Fly.... and on and on
yes
My beginner skills match up with his catalog too
@@mattmiller4516 That’s the point- every garage band in town can play him…. But who else could write it?
The intro riff on fooled again, is so good
Definitely Runnin" Down A Dream
Easy Rick. You'll make yourself nuts. There's not enough time in a year to touch on all the fantastic rhythm pieces that exist throughout the decades.
Heavy is the head of the King… while we Lilliputians sling little arrows at his ankles.
yeah man!
David Byrne has terrific stuff all throughout Talking Heads' catalog.
@@unknownkingdomSo who did ? :-)
@@unknownkingdomyea, he did.
Have never heard Talking Heads on this channel :(
@@JeanMarieMessaFripp played a few songs on one record from memory, I Zimbra
@@JeanMarieMessaavid & Jerry Harrison at first, then Robert Fripp, Adrian Belew, Alex Weir
There's a funny story that starts with Talking Heads and AC/DC spending time together at Compass Point studio in Nassau --- look it up
The Edge's intro to "Where the Streets Have No Name" has to be one of the greatest rhythm guitar riffs.
Glad you mentioned it. I thought the same
U2 is a band I wish I could like 😢 My dad played them so much when I was a kid that they sound like nails on a chalkboard to me now, decades later.
"bad" is also a great edge riff
Hey! You seem kind of bothered here. Call them YOUR favourites, Rick! Nobody should argue with YOUR favourites. They should only offer THEIR favourites.
Often, when I come here, you set my playlist for the day. So many wonderful songs that I can't recall them all at will. You bring all that enjoyment back.
As my little island's most popular DJ is known for saying, "Too much hard tunes! Cyan (can't) play all!"
Todo lo que toca the edge ,lo convierte en oro.
Never Going Back Again by Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac is a great, highly technical, unique part, carries the melody, and is underneath the singing. It's the quintessential rhythm guitar that fills all the requirements that Rick has laid out for this list.
HIs guitar work on Landslide is also great, almost classical guitar-like, and really holds the song together.
David Gilmour's chord progression on Dogs is pretty unique and propels the verses of that epic
Good call
Leslie West’s work on Mountain’s Mississippi Queen is truly epic.. Would love to see a "What makes this song Great" on this one..
He can't do that! Remember? Due to RUclips's strict community guidelines, which are constantly getting enhanced, the series can't happen anymore! I wanted him to do an episode on "Man! I Feel Like a Woman!", but I know it ain't gonna happen because Shania is a blocker!
Oh come on! Jumping Jack Flash! The sound of that guitar through that Vox amplifier is amazing. When you play it off vinyl it send electric shivers up any spine.
That's one I never get tired of playing. It's infectious!
Good one. I'd go with Can't you hear me knockin. For us old Stones fans, Start Me Up sounded recycled when it came out and wouldn't be the one I'd pick.
@123jkjk123 the opening for Can't You Hear Me Knocking is probably one of the greatest opening licks of all time.
@@frankwebster9110 And let's not forget SWAY.
@@saigonexile531 Sway rhythm guitar is Mick Jaggar..
Nile Rodgers' rhythm riffage on Diana Ross's I'm Coming Out is pure gold. And it fueled a second mega-hit 17 years later with Biggie's Mo' Money Mo Problems. Legendary.
Best breakdown in any song, period.
Still no mention of The Kinks "You Really Got Me?" Always thought that was one of the most influential rhythm guitar riffs of all time 🤯😅
this is right
Totally right. Birth of metal
That’s one of the earliest rock n roll chord based riffs popularized by The Who, AC/DC, Stones, etc. It ventured outside the Chuck Berry blues thing. It seems like it was unique at that time.
Fools Gold - Stone Roses. Because it works. Never gets old.
Nice call 👍❤
I’d love to see Rick do a video on John Squire’s guitar work!
Flock of Seagulls "I Ran" is pretty unique.
Also The Smiths "How soon is now" and yeah... Stone Roses.
Nancy Wilson is a fantastic rhythm player
Both Pete Townsend and David Gilmore loved the unique tuning of the Beat’s “Save it for Later”, Pete doing a beautiful cover. Eddie Vedder and Pearl Jam also utilized it.
Porcupine Tree’s “The Sound of Muzak” is a very cool rhythmic riff (Drop D tuning) 👍🏻🎸
“Lay it Down” by Ratt is such an awesome rhythm part over the chorus, same as the intro. I think it definitely deserves a spot in my top 10!
I suggested Bark at the Moon. I think Rick has a bit of a blind-spot with quality hair metal, where they were doing really unique stuff with rhythm guitar.
@@joecrafted For sure, that’s another great one! You just can’t fit them all in one video.
i like between the eyes by ratt
"Enough is Enough" has an exceptional rhythm part too!!!
@joecrafted Bark at the Moon is an exceptional rhythm part. One of the most fun to play. I was hoping to find that one on the list.
Pretenders… Tattooed Love Boys as an example. Chrissie Hynde has such a rhythm approach ; sort of spastic but it works
"Mystery achievement" has such a groove
Spastic but it works......the Cosmic Gears have clicked in Place! I get that too! It's Perfect, as is The Pretenders with Chrissy.
You Nailed it!
@@rileyjackfansmithandjones8238n
“Rock And Roll Hootchie-Koo” has a great riff, too.
Louie Shelton's guitar work on Last Train to Clarksville is killer. So is his work on The Jackson 5's I Want You Back.
Great call. Fantastic guitar parts.
I recently stumbled across Louie’s RUclips channel. I had never heard of him or that he played on those classics. He is a phenomenal player.
The acoustic guitar in Daughter of Pearl Jam!!! Amazing riff!
But may I just say, Rick, you don't have to explain yourself or your choices, we don't care, we just looooove your videos!
I commented the same thing on the other recent Beato video. “Daughter” is a much more iconic and fun rhythm part (compared to “Dissident”), and like a couple of the other selections on the Top 20 list, “Daughter” is in an open/alternate tuning.
What you did was impossible from the beginning. You can continue this forever and say «I could done……” forever. To many good riffs out there to make a top list.
PEarl jam has a great riff in Given to Fly too, but that one is mostly Hendrix based, so not that unique
Glad to hear there might be some Deep Purple content on this channel because I think they are a band that has tended to be overlooked. Like Thin Lizzy, a band whose importance to a whole generation of artists often seems to go unrecognised.
Rick the only to talk is only for Zeppelin,Beatles,Van Hallen and others but is clear that he didn't like Purple witch is ok but not fair,if you know what i mean.
Or Steve Morse.... for that matter.
@@feloniousmonk3049 Either way only his favorite bands-artist is the most videos.Not a equal-fair perception imho.
Blue Oyster Cult is also often overlooked. I'm glad he had Buck on the channel at one point, though. I love Deep Purple too. "Child in Time" is one of the best rock songs of all time, in my opinion.
I have to admit I'm not familiar with Thin Lizzy aside from one song.
As for newer music, I'd love to hear what he thinks of the Black Keys.
Man Lizzy does not get her due. They were a force of artistic style no one can touch. Lynott as a writer and frontman criminally goes by the wayside. Moore and Gorham arent ever mentioned among the great guitarists when they should be. And Downey is one of the greatest dummers imo
Andy Summers is such an underappreciated master of rhythm guitar. So inventive, great chops.
Agreed. As is Charlie Burchill of Simple Minds
@nicowiersema7109 don't forget about Buckethead. He does and can play anything
@@nicowiersema7109
He is very underrated. An absolute guitar hero.
Just saw the Doobie Brothers last month and gotta say i think they are criminally underrated musicians and songwriters, live show was amazing
Why do people use the word underrated. The Doobie Brothers have sold enormous amounts of albums, are considered great by their peers. How does that make them underrated? Simple fact now is that the Doobie Brothers are not contemporary. The Doobie Brothers are just old. Deal with it. My favorites are old as well. But my favorites are not underrated because they’re old. People need to quit using underrated.
A better word would be "overlooked".
underrated? these groups like The Doobie Brothers aren’t underrated to the musicians and fans who grew up with them. too many times i’ve seen the term “underrated” equated to obliviousness of a musician’s discography.
@@brokl26 Underrated is not about album sales. It is about not acknowledging specific skills. For example, Prince, one of the most popular musicians ever, was for a long time an underrated guitarist. I would call Chris Hayes of Huey Lewis and the News a very underrated guitar player, despite the fact that Huey was huge in the 80s.
Re Doobies: Road Angel. Wow, just wow.
@@brokl26 haha.....this is exactly what I was thinking when I scrolled to your comment.....word for word
Alex Lifeson has got to be my most fascinating guitar player I have listened to. The whole of the Moving Pictures album is outstanding. The reggae influence they got from The Police played a huge part. Hitch a Ride by Boston is fantastic.
Since you mntion The Police, how about the guitar in Every Breath You Take? Absolutely perfect adn Andy Summers is an incredible guitarist. Never overplayed even though he is exceptionally talented.
@@JimDuggan-tq2lv Too right Jim. He played some fantastic parts. He also had a sound of his own. In fact the whole band did. Pure melody. I think Brian May is somewhat underrated and another who had his own sound. You could always recognise a track that Brian plays on by his sound. Very unique.
Would have loved to see Heart on the list, so many great rhythm parts. Crazy On You, Barracuda, Love Alive, Even It Up, Down On Me, Rockin' Heaven Down, Back to Avalon, Lost Angel... to name a few 😁
And I would add Magic Man. Little Queen, and Straight On.
Yes! Have they ever been on this channel? I don't remember seeing them featured.
@@lorigoshert6667
The only time I can recall is Rick choosing Nancy's intro to Crazy on You as his #14 Best Acoustic Intro of all Time. (And he did not attempt to play it, showing a video of her instead).
I’ve always thought “All My Loving” by The Beatles was so underrated for its simplicity. The triplet feel in the verse is great; just fits right in.
Simple but near impossible to play well. Lennon was a beast.
For me the ultimate rock rhythm groove performance is Message to Love, from the Band of Gypsys live record. Even when Buddy Miles speeds up for Jimi’s solos, and even when they slow back down for the verses, he never loses that fat back groove. The whole performance is smoking hot. It’s all there. Killer guitar rhythm riffs and fills to the insane solos.
Seems to me like no one talks about the guitar work in Blind Melon. Check out the rythm guitars on "Tones of Home", "Paper Scratcher", " Soak the Sin", "Soul One", "Toes Accross the Floor" or "Mouthful of Cavities". Interlocking riffs, acoustic riffs, and the Bass parts all just amazing.
I saw a lot of people mention The Smiths (Johnny Marr) in the live chat. I have to agree, he wrote some killer riffs. A legend.
Rick, I’m an extremely beginning 58 year old guitar player and even though you are light years ahead in terms of skill and knowledge, we’re near the same age and it is such a kick to me when you cover all those great songs that we came of age with (ie: More Than a Feeling, Jamie’s Crying, Roxanne, etc). Plus i love all bands from Zeppelin to Stevie Wonder, but The Beatles are the cream of the crop. Keep doing what you’re doing, it’s fantastic stuff!
ps- Did you ever think in your wildest dreams you’d be interviewing in person the likes of Sting, Christopher Cross, and Peter Frampton??? :)
Ohhh, ohh, Lindsay Buckingham also, he is underrated, however he’s so creative both in electric and acoustic…but man we can go on forever on phenomenal, creative guitarists…thank you again for the wonderful content. I guess you can have part 1, 2, 3, 4 and so on when it comes to this subject.
I think the guitars on Big Love (if you pardon the pun) don’t get much love.
I love the Spanish guitar in the background.
I have a feeling this list could go on for days and days.
I'm amazed that the Atlanta Rhythm Section doesn't get any love on this channel. Incredibly tight band, all across the board, and JR Cobb was the quintessential rhythm player to Barry Bailey's spot on lead lines.
Yes agreed…actually no southern rockers no Lynyryd Skynyrd, Outlaws, Marshall Tucker, Molly Hatchet, Blackfoot, ARS you mentioned, Allman Brothers, and others
ARS were geniuses. Today's bands pale by comparison.
@@TonyRichards while I know ARS is/was from the south, I hardly consider them southern rock in those terms. I have heard them referred to as “The Steely Dan of Southern Rock”, I think that probably fits them well. And I love southern rock, even recorded with some of those guys you've mentioned. But ARS was maybe a bit more refined than most SR bands, at least in my opinion.
Day Tripper: Now you know why Lennon favored his Ric 325, which had a scale length of 21.5": TWENTY ONE POINT FIVE INCHES!, making that riff, with its 'walking pinky bass-line" so much easier to play than on a full scale fingerboard! When JL bought that 325 in Germany in 1950, they were playing 8 hour club gigs in Hamburg, and he was probably doing a ton of Chuck Berry rock and roll tunes with 'walking pinky bass-lines', making the short scale Ric a perfect guitar for those shows... I always keep a short scale kicking around, you never know when you're gonna need one...
If Lennon bought a guitar in 1950 he would have been giggin' Hamburg at 10 yrs. old. I think you meant 1960. Always proofread before sending...peace out.
Loving that you've just learned Tom Sawyer!
It's great that Alex Lifeson is getting some recognition - the guy's a genius. SO many of his guitar parts are extraordinary/weird/creative/unique.
Would love to see you interview him & Geddy.
An Alex and Geddy interview would be beyond fantastic.
Not having anything by Johnny Marr on this list is nothing short of a crime! Come on; "This Charming Man", "How Soon is Now?", "Heaven Knows I'm Miserable Now" etc...
The rhythm guitar backing on Boston's "Smokin" propels the whole song. Tom Sholtz backs himself up on the Organ solo and then mute picking on the second pipe organ solo.
An overlooked guitar recording riff is Mike Nesmith's Pleasant Valley Sunday. Outstanding!
Awesome as always. James’ rhythm part behind Kirk’s solo on The Unforgiven is so simple but truly epic and one of my fave rhythm parts of all time.
Can you hear me knocking -Stones is definitely an honorable mention
Supertramp - Give A Little Bit. Perhaps not the most unique, but that 12-string chord progression just sticks in your head.
I enjoyed your list , Rick . Here are a few I would add -"Working for MCA" Lynyrd Skynyrd . "Who's behind the door" Zebra . "Carry On" CSNY . "Crazy Train" Blizzard of Oz . "The boys are back in town" Thin Lizzy . "Love don't stay here" Tygers of Pan Tang .
Rick, if you ever get the opportunity, please have Rik Emmet of Triumph on your cast, it will be gold!
Rik also taught music at the collegiate level. If I'm not mistaken Humber College in Toronto
Yes, we need more Triumph on the channel! Interviewing Rik or Gil or Mike would be awesome!
Second that
Why not a visit to Toronto, with interviews with Emmett, as well as Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson?
@@gillesthibault429 that would be fantastic
Bob Mould from Hüsker Dü played great rhythm guitar in my opinion. He could play incredibly fast while using many open voicings. He created a wall of sound with one guitar.
There’s a lot of punk guitarists from the 80s and 90s that could fit Rick’s criteria with a number of their riffs. D Boon, Ian Mackaye, Guy Picciotto, Steve Albini, Santiago Durango, Duane Denison, Justin Trosper, David Pajo, Rowland S Howard, Andy Kerr, Greg Ginn to name a few more.
I absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE that you included “Don’t Stop To Watch The Wheels” on the original video! That riff is incredible!
For me, one of the toughest rhythm guitar parts is Dave Mason's "Only You Know and I Know". Sounds simple with a lot of right hand flourishes, but the open tuning, left hand movement and the flipping of the beat makes it a good one! Just my opinion.
I love that song!
Dave Mason, awesome guitar player!
Yes! Play more in videos. Guitar, drums, piano, singing. Let go Rick!
Rick, You forgot to mention one creator of iconic rhythm guitar parts: U2's The Edge. I only mention "Bad" here, because of the obvious use of the the delay as an integral part of the rhythm. There's more of course.
If You make a top 20 list, there's always something missing. So, no blame here. Looking forward to Your next video.
Totally agree. The Edge is the most glaring omission. Revolutized rhythm guitar and so unique. Pride in the name of love is literally the epitome of the criteria used for this video (unique rhythm part as backing for lyrics).
Revolutionized guitar by copying the sound David Gilmour used on several songs on the Wall? Was the part where he did the same tired trick over and over again the part that was revolutionary, or the whole tricking people into thinking he’s revolutionary?
SOAD has some interesting and unique rhythm guitar parts. Johnny Marr deserves a video!
Oh, yes!
💯
Johnny Marr is something else
How soon is now! Come on!
I’m still waiting for that interview
I listen to and play all types of music but almost any AC/DC song has the most amazing rhythm guitars!, Malcom
Surely Steve Cropper should have been in there. Peter Gabriel said in 1979 that Paul Weller was the best young rhythm guitarist in the UK and got him in to improve And Through the Wire.
Yeah - I usually get Rick’s picks, but don’t get no Steve Cropper🤔
Biffy Clyro are masters of the intricate background riff. Simon is both singing and playing these complex riffs at the same time, and to see him do it live is mesmerising.
Jesus Christ, they make Coldplay look positively dangerous. My 7 year old sister would think it’s corny.
The Difference by Kings X deserves a mention here, the beauty and relentlessness of the rhythm guitar here matches the uniqueness on display in the other tracks, i think :) (great vid as always)
I think there are 2 artists/bands you missed on your list or in your honourable mentions.
1. U2 - the Edge. There are so many songs to choose from that are both unique and iconic.
2. Dave Matthews - has some of the most unique chord and rhythm/time choices in his catalog.
Both would be on my list when talking about rhythm guitar.
Would love to see him dig into Dave. Incredible catalog with huge talent.
"Don't Fear the Reaper" by Blue Oyster Cult. Unforgettable rhythm.
Yes, good call!
"Down on the Corner" by CCR. Tom Fogerty was a simple rhythm guitarist but he was the musical glue that kept the group together. But that is definitely one of the funkier parts he ever played
Fortunate Son.👍👍👍
Grace by Jeff Buckley has one of my favorite rhythm guitar parts. Really any Jeff Buckley song could’ve been on the list!
Great call there!
Fantastic player! Probably more known as a singer though.
Yes! Gary Lucas (former beefhart guitarist and manager) on that cut.
He was an underrated player. Easily done with a voice like his.
True!
Your old fave Peter Frampton sings over the intro ‘oh Baby I love Your Way’ but hey Rick you’ve got it down anyway with your choices !
King's X... Ty Tabor's intro riffs for 'I Just Can't Help It' or 'Lost in Germany'.. Very unique.
Oh man. You ain't kidding!!!
Ha, i left a comment about Lost in Germany on the original vid 😊
We Were Born to be Loved is my personal favorite. All the crazy breaks in that rhythm make it unique
I think another honorable mention would be Satellite by Dave Matthews. Probably many others from him, too, but that's what comes to mind.
Dave needs some love on this channel.
Hole Hearted is an amazing acoustic riff that fits in the guidelines.
Boston??? Let's talk "Peace of Mind" and "Don't Look Back" for rhythm.
Should include the incredible strumming rhythms of Pete Townshend. 😉
of course !!!!
Shocking that Rick disdains Pete Townshend! 😮
Rick, you're right. And it's more fun for us to see you play em'. Keep rocking!
Funk #49 - James Gang (Joe Walsh)
Killer song! Classic guitar riff for sure.
"I can't play today" and "the action is too high" should be lesson #1 for guitarists. I've used it often in my 36 years of playing! :)
I would have loved if Rick mentioned Michael landau, Dann Huff or Steve Lukather. They are all my Favorite rythm guitar players. An example would be Dann Huff's playing on Glory of love by Peter Cetera. There is a isolated track of it here on RUclips if anyone is interested. There is also Landau's part on Endless summer nights by Richard Marx. Fenomenal guitarist all of them!
@joanneanderson4190 I missed that. Thank! 🤘
Not saying he ought to be on the list, but I've always felt Incubus's Mike Einziger deserves more recognition in the guitar world for some of his rhythm part writing. There are so many unique and cool riffs outside of their hit songs that non fans may never ever hear but would probably get a real kick out of.
I think almost any rhythm guitar part by Bob Weir with Grateful Dead is a masterclass in rhythmic guitar overall. Even apparently easy songs like "One more saturday night" are amazing. Or all the Weir-written "Weather Report Suite" or "Lazy Lightning"....he's an underrated genius, he just knows every chord and can play any song i any spot on the fretboard..
Rick never gives the Dead credit
Best rhythm player of all time, hands down.
@@RobertWeirnah, he doesn’t. He has good taste.
@@Tyrannosaurine lol yeah, the Moody blues really pump my nads
Beatles All My Lovin. John's strumming is megga!
I miss a song from the Smiths: Bigmouth strikes again, William it was really nothing, Still Ill, Handsome devil... They have plenty creative unique riffs that fit into Rick’s list.
You bet your ass it was Nile Rodgers. The baddest guitarist that most people have never heard of. And my personal hero. Read his book, fascinating story. And I agree with Doobs, Don Stop to Watch the Wheels Go Round. Great stuff, didn't know it was in D tuning. I used to play it in standard tuning.
Singing over it, very unique: ‘Sinful Love’, ‘Morning Final’, and even ‘(Don’t Fear) The Reaper’: Blue Oyster Cult
Rory Gallagher was a master of Rhythm guitar (and everything else). Rick - when are you gonna do a deep dive in to the playing of Rory. His lead work, slide work and acoustic playing where off the planet. Now with his latest
posthumous live Album out would be great time to introduce this artist to the wider American public!
Televison's "Venus" is very original in it's rhythm part and has a melancholy that hits the listener to the heart
Elevation is a great TV song also. Great band.
Absolutely! There are few from that album, including "Venus" that immediately came to mind, when this video/topic came up. Tom & Richard are both severely underrated, especially their playing on that record. There are so many examples of "unique" (gross understatement) rhythm guitar parts on that album.
@@fatbackfunk The whole Marquee Moon album is a masterclass in the Rick Beato definition of rhythm guitar playing.
@@crh4878 I wholeheartedly concur!
Blackbird. Now that’s unique! And mirrors/complements the vocals perfectly!
YES Smoke on the Water deserved to be on the list. Such a dramatic, raw, unique Rythym guitar creations of all time. Please!!
I am stunned you didn’t mention Hendrix. Some of the most unique rhythm playing of all time. Also Lindsey Buckinghams fingerpicking style is worth a mention.
He doesn't feature Hendrix much because whoever manages his music will block the video. Rick could mention him, but he wouldn't be able to play the music.
@@lorigoshert6667 Yes, I’m aware. I just figured he would have mentioned him at least once on the livestream.
@@lorigoshert6667he also should talk about Buckethead
Lukather might as well have gotten songwriting credit, because many times his playing provided the glue and often the hook for the song... He is a true craftsmen.
I was a bit surprised’New Sensation’ by INXS did not make the list. There are a handful of tasty licks in the song. Still love all you do there Rick!
Correct. Distinctive.
Rick, your list was great. Honorable mentions are worth mentioning, however the list is huge and almost endless and not everyone will be satisfied. It’s mind blowing to think of all the incredible sounds and riffs musicians have made over the years. Our ears and souls have truly been blessed. Peace and love.
Great comment.
Feel Johnny Marr deserves a spot here … Girl Afraid or What Difference Does it Make
I’d love what makes this song great for Perfect Strangers or Knocking at your back door.
Yes, loved this list, specially the acoustic, I think Croce for sure deserves to be in this list Lover’s Cross, Time in a Bottle, to name a couple classic super songs with beautiful rhythm and then Bread as well, If and Make it with You have exquisite acoustic guitars.
I really like John McGeoch's guitar on Spellbound by Siouxsie and the Banshees.
Rick Beato is my Rock Hero! He know’s everything I want to know about music.
No love for Jethro Tull? There are so many great rhythm guitar parts on the Aqualung, Minstrel in the Gallery, and Thick as a Brick records (as well as all the others,) they could fill a Beato video by themselves. 🤔
Two videos on rhythm guitar and still no mention of Can't You Hear Me Knockin'. It boggles the mind!
You forgot the following: I'm the One by AWB; Good Times by Chic; You Got the Love by Rufus featuring Chaka Khan; Good Times by Chic; Doin' It by Herbie Hancock; Love Rollercoaster by The Ohio Players.
not much diversity on his list. very vanilla. i mentioned elsewhere he negates the musicians whom are the inspirations for the people on his list! like
Catfish Collins (Parliament’s Flashlight), Tony Maiden (Rufus’ Sweet Thing), Al McKay (EWFʻs Shining Star), and these OGs:
Chuck Berry, JB, Cornell Dupree (Memphis Soul Stew w/ King Curtis),Jimi Hendrix (Power to Love), Bo Didley (Bo Didley), Jim Hall, and Jōao Gilberto (Desafinado).
@@somerset8088agreed. I posted something similar in the comments yesterday.
@@n.oneimportant5 : would you be able to copy and post it here…? can’t seem to find it
@@somerset8088 i don't know of a way to link specific comments, but you should be able to find it. I posted it using this same account. This is what I wrote.
"An interesting list. Very rock-focused. Nothing wrong with that I suppose. No "Sing a Simple Song" by Sly? "You Got the Love" by Rufus? "1999"? Hmm..."
@@n.oneimportant5 : agree! where’s Prince and Sly Stone?
i’ve noticed that he never really covers Hendrix, etc. but at least include Bo Didley! lol
I totally agree with “Watching the Wheels” - uniqueness and really rockin’
I'm late, but "Oh Well" by Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac should be in there somewhere, I think.
I’m overwhelmed by the Johnny mart love in the comments, he is a legendary melodic chord writing rhythm guitarist. The first two seconds of how soon is now or this charming man are instantly recognizable
Loved your list, no complaints. Could have had some other Stone Temple Pilots songs in there. Army Ants, Still Remains, and Tripping on a Hole in a Paper Heart come to mind.
Gary Richrath: Ridin the Storm Out, Roll with the Changes, Back on the Road Again. Lonesome Dave Peverrit(sp?): Any Foghat song. Aaron Barrett: any Reel Big Fish song. Rick Nielson: Need Your Love, Surrender, Dream Police. All these guys play rhythm and lead awesomely.