I believe that Alvin Lee was only meaningful for a brief moment, immortalized at in the Woodstock documentary. I have never heard, nor read of any major player saying they were influenced by his playing. As I've said before, this is my opinion, my list, my video, however you'd like to phrase it. Yours would/is different and that's cool.
Is your opinion based on research or actually listening to his music? Your statement suggests " I have never heard, nor read of any major player saying they were influenced by his playing". Statistics or Taste? Check Joe Bonamassa Playing Alvin Lee's Guitar "Big Red" in Royal Albert Hall
Justin Hayward fronted The Moody Blues for 55 years playing a ‘63 335 yet he never gets recognition on these kind of lists. He’s the sole reason I started playing. His tone and solos are amazing.
That’s the reason these lists are all bullshit. Some guy thought that he had come up with some idea that everyone needed to hear; but he is wrong, every single time. It’s essentially’”Where’s Waldo!”… Who got left off “the list”?…and if it was MY guy, you’d better look out, because MY choice is smarter and, therefore, better than anyone else’s. It’s the desperate quest for parental approval extended into “adulthood”; “Look-a-me, daddeh!”, I ‘member’d tuh say ‘Ten Years After’! Aintcha PROWD?!?”… “MY list of greatest rock n roll guitarists is UNIQUE…” “How so? You have Hendrix at number one, like everybody else.” “Yeah, but my choices for #69 and 84 - not to mention 91 - don’t appear on anybody else’s list…and im fairly certain that that makes me brilliant…I mean, it’s not as if my mom wasn’t clued into my uniqueness from Jump…” bravo 😑 It’s the yearly yammering on over who “belongs” in the RRHOF in miniature. It doesn’t matter. At all. None of it. Not the actual inductees, not Jann Wenner, not those plates they have in New York City that for some reason cost thousands of dollars to “honor” a form of music whose very simplicity & the ability of amateurs to play it as well - BETTER, actually, much much better - as millionaires, since its attitude & 3-chords that count for more than having money could ever make up for. Wait, what was the subject again?…
I love rock because of the electric guitar. And that is why I love The Moody Blues. Subtle, understated playing that is always in service to their overall sound (but still jams)...and thus is vastly underrated. Genius!
Another vote for Alvin Lee. His Woodstock performance was iconic. His career as a popular, name guitarist wasn't as prominent as some players, but he burned up Woodstock, and Harvard Stadium in Boston when I saw him up close.
I was going to mention him because he was the reason I wanted a cherry dot 335. I vividly remember hearing the Ten Year's After cover of 'Woodchopper's Ball' on BBC World Service some time in 1980 and have never been so blown away by a guitarist's technical abilities since. That may be down to my own growth as a player but even now I find that track, and the whole 'Undead' album, inspiring to listen to.
After Chuck Berry, Alvin Lee's 335 is the most iconic one and also the fastest one! Going Home performance from Woodstock is among the most defining guitar moments in history
To me, Alvin Lee was the original shredder. I still listen to Rock & Roll Music to the World to this day. Two things I learned are that he was given several 335s, but would always uncover the pickups, flip them upside down (which would drive Gibson crazy because it would make more noise) but to him it had a sharper sound, also he sometimes cut a hole in the middle to insert a Fender pickup. The second thing was that he said he had tried Strats, which he liked, but he kept hitting the pickup switch by mistake. Thus, history was made by a mistake.
So true. I feel bad I didn't even think of him. Especially since "I Fooled Around and Fell in Love" was playing on the radio when my girlfriend and I decided we were in love, and should move in together, while sitting in line at a Taco Bell drive thru. We got married four years later and that was 32 years ago.
Nice! 50 year harmonica player here, full-time pro by age 20. Have opened for Elvin Bishop and last weekend I played a gig with Johnny V Vernazza- who is on about 5-6 Elvin B. Albums and whose guitar you hear on "Fooled around and fell in love".
Big Red IS one of the most famous and pivotal 355s in guitar history. The battle between Elvin Bishop and Mike Bloomfield in the epic instrumental "East-West", off the eponymous 1966 Paul Butterfield Blues Band album, pretty much set the standard for rock guitar over the subsequent decades.
Very surprised there’s no mention of Alvin Lee. I’m Going Home was a real workout to learn and I’m still using those licks today. That said, another great list!
I have to agree with others in the comments here. I'm a big fan of almost everyone on the list, but when I hear the 335 being discussed my thoughts go immediately to Alvin Lee and Big Red. He was an amazing player to watch.
I really feel like Keith missed the boat for the first time. Alvin Lee is the greatest 335 player. His performance on woodstock is no doubt the most seen actual guitar performance on a 335.
Alvin Lee at Woodstock!!! That was the ear opener for me! Blows ALL these other players away, imo. 😊 I have never owned a 335. Not cheap these days. Lol
Just so that his name will be mentioned here : Bill Nelson ( Be Bop Deluxe and wonderful solo career ) used a stereo wired 345 for much of Be Bop Deluxe's run. Wishing you all the best - John
I'll go with Dave Edmunds. maybe he didn't change the world but his influence on me was incredible. I'd also as Keith Richards. Alvin Lee tore up woodstock with that intro on Goin' Home.
I agree with the Alvin Lee upvotes. Also, no love for the ES339? I like it because it's a part of the E series but smaller and more comfortable for me. Personally not small (6'-3', 250+lbs) but I always found 335s and the like too big and unwieldy.
How do you create a "Top 10 335 Players Who Changed the World" list without Alvin Lee? He should be at the top of the list. He wrote I'd Love to Change the World! My favorite guitarists on your list are Freddy, B.B., and Chuck. Rock on. :)
Another great show, though I must agree that the omission of Alvin Lee from at least an honourable mention a little odd, but its your list, not mine 😉 I have been forever haunted by the time I tried a ‘64 cherry red ES-335 in a London vintage guitar shop, about 15 years ago. I was trying out a pedal they had for sale, which I found difficult to focus on as the beautiful guitar in my hands had that weird feeling that it was playing itself. I recently bought an Epiphone 335 and even though I replaced the pickups with Lollar Imperials and the harness with one from Monty’s, its still not giving me much mojo - though it must be said I’ve been fully converted to all things Telecaster since getting one three years ago.
Wonderwall Don’t Look Back in Anger Some Might Say Champagne Supernova You ought to listen to Oasis’s What’s The Story Morning Glory again or try it if you haven’t.
Steve Howe's 345 playing on Close to the Edge and Siberian Katru was world changing for me. Steve plays an assortment of guitars. He is most notably famous for the ES 175, but also plays a 335 and 345. If you ever have a chance to see Yes in concert it is well worth the price. Steve is still at the top of.
God bless you for doing the heavy lifting...Steve Howe left off of ANY list of guitar players (short of best banjo player) is a incomplete examination !
@@johnpublic6890 I believe he did have one stolen. Since then, when he travels by air he always books a second seat for "Mr. Gibson" He has a couple of 175's and one 345 (stereo) for Close to the Edge and Siberian Katru. When I saw Yes at the Anaheim Grove Steve had a problem with the 345 and switched to a Les Paul mid song.
Justin Hayward...no one sounded like him with that guitar from 68-71. It sounded like a violin...he was playing like Brian May and Steve Hackett years before they became known. Progressive, melodic and Bach like...he was the first to do it. Listen to the Moody Blues album "To Your Children's, Children's Children" to get an idea of just how majestic his playing was. All on this Gibson 335.
Yeah! Hayward kind of re-invented himself. He went from the "Ride My Seesaw" Telecaster sound to his own 335 sound; starting (I think) with "Threshold of a Dream".
@@robertvavra414 Yes. He kept that tone on all the albums thru Seventh Sojourn. Listen to his playing on the Blue Jays album...I'm surprised he isn't given more credit for his guitar playing...as he is very, very good. His songwriting kind of overshadows his playing, I think.
Many many people complained about Alvin Lee not being on the list, but you're the only one I've seen who said anything about Steve Howe, who is definitely deserving.
As with all of your videos, I love this one! I would have added Ritchie Blackmore as an honorable mention too. Although he's more known for his work with the Stratocaster, Blackmore used a 335 from his early session work days right up to - and including Deep Purple In Rock... and his mind-blowing solos on the studio versions, and every live version of Child In Time, Wring That Neck, and Mandrake Root prior to 1971 were all played on his red Gibson 335! He definitely set the standard for the term "Shredding," and showed just how blazingly fast he was using that guitar!!!
The cover photo of a grizzled Alex Lifeson getting down, is on its own, very inspirational to me. Ritchie Blackmore always comes to mind for me also. Surely Ritchie has to be high on this list?
Ritchie's career was based most with the Strat, than the 335. Granted, Hush and the first record was done with the Gibson, but the classics albums were done on a Strat, unless Blackmore say otherwise. For example, Clapton did the Farewell Concerts, From the Cradle and some Yardbirds performance with the ES 335, but he is most renown with the Les Paul (Bluesbreaker) and the Strat (Derek and the Dominos to present). Also, for me, Johnny Winter is most identifiable with the Firebird, but from the 80's (as far as I recall) to his last performances, it was the Lazer guitar. I could be wrong, but I'll wait what Keith is going to present.
@@NavelOrangeGazer I think that Concerto for a Rock Band? I think that's the title or not, he used the 335. I remember seeing the video on a documentary. I think he was pairing the 335 with a Vox AC 30 and a Treble Booster. Correct me, if I'm wrong
Good call, Ritchie established himself with the 335, but he is inextricably linked with the Strat ever since, so perhaps an "Hourable Mention", at best. And I'm a huge Blackmore fan, btw, so no negative bias on my part... 😂😂
Hear, Hear I say to those that Know the Great ALVIN LEE..... CB & BB are now doubt 1&2! But It's a miscarriage to not have ALVIN LEE at #3!!!!!!!! From Woodstock to long legs and the BLUEST BLUES how could he not even be an honorable mention at least!!!!! The Horror!!!!! Literally!!! To those who posted before me about ALVIN LEE, I send much praise!!.Yes we do know!!! I'm thinking of that rag mag that recently left out so many that should have been on their list, and many that should be kicked to the curb of the real talent that has been out there and those that are still around or to come. Yes Keith we all do have our opinions. And I do love your channel!! But as that sniveling socialist Greta T. says {How Dare You}......Lol.. Just keeping the history real..... Merry Christmas to you all.............And as Joe Bonamassa would say... Lets keeps the blues alive!!!!!!!!! Many Blessings to you all..................
I live in Macon Ga. He played a benefit show for Alzheimers here some years ago. For the show they brought out Duane Allman’s Les Paul for Vince to play. It was quite a night!
I used to live in GA, not too far from you. We went to the state fair and saw Vince Gill standing behind a fence talking to some fans before his show. He was wearing his dress shirt for the concert and a pair of flowered board shorts.😂 I really like his music. This would have been in about 1991. @@edwardyazinski3858
Love this list. The spoof of Marty McFly is no joke. That guitar is still a dream acquisition for me because of that film and the actual #5 Noel Gallagher. But at the very least, Alvin Lee and John Lee Hooker deserve an honorable mention.
Magic. I was trying to save this for Saturday morning and coffee (and I’ll probably rewatch then too), but I just couldn’t resist! Another amazing video, Mr. Keith. Very anticipated by me, and did not disappoint, how could it! Much, much thanks to you for this video and all the outstanding work you do. I hope you get to have a fun holiday break and reflect on all the good you put into the world for so many of us. Take care, be kind to yourself, and a very happy holiday season to you. 😌🎄✨
Alex Lifeson already mentioned, but just my two cents: the black and white live footage of Rush doing 2112 in 1976 features some of the greatest electric guitar tones I've ever heard.
I love the non-obviousness of some of these choices. I also love that at least half of them don't play 335's, but 345's, 355's and in on case, a Trini Lopez. As a former ES-345 owner, I enjoy the inclusion of the Varitone switch equipped models. I used to get asked what guitar I played, and when I answered "a 345" people would almost always reply "you mean a 335, right?" Nope. Two other notable 345 players were Jorma Kaukonen and Elvin Bishop.
I’m adding Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues to that list. The sound quality and performance on his 335 did indeed change the lives of many around the world for the better.
Leaving off Alvin Lee was both sinful and dispectful. You catered too much to the young ones at Alvin's expense. Your work up till now has been almost perfect. I'm sure you'll get it right next time Keith.
You do great videos Keith. I wish I could “Patreonize” all my favorite channels on RUclips but, I’m old, fixed income, etc. So all I can do is say Thank You!
From England, I will say Johnny Marr from The Smiths and Bernard Butler from Suede, (or the London Suede if you're in the States 😉)...both incredible 355 players
I recently pulled out my old cd of What’s The Story Morning Glory from Oasis. Noel Gallagher deserves a spot on the list. Those songs are very memorable and are currently stuck in my head.
Another well done doc. Your shows remind me of watching MTV "Behind the Music" from the 90s, but more informative. And possibly better - I can only remember the tone and general effect of "Behind the Music". But I always liked those too.
Another excellent bluesman, wonderful human and my best friend, is my brother Dave. I’ll never forget the day back in August of 1996 when he brought home his brand new blonde Gibson 335 dot. I believe he paid $900 for it at Long and McQuade. He still has it, it’s had new nuts, new frets, new tuners, new switches over the years, sports some pretty good belt buckle rash on the back and pick marks on the front… but nowadays his Frankencaster is his go-to.
Another awesome video, Keith! Had to smile when you flashed the 2012 B.B. King tour poster during his segment. I opened for him on the Pittsburgh date of that tour (a surreal experience) and asked his tech if I could take a picture holding that particular “Lucille” after the show. Unfortunately, that was a bridge too far to cross and I had to settle for one standing a safe distance away from it. Finally bought a black 335 this year to get one in my hands! Cheers and happy holidays!
Great video! Happy to say I own one of the 2013 olive Chris Cornell guitars and it is an excellent sounding guitar, everybody who hears it is always blown away. Surprisingly it does high gain sounds particularly well.
Epic video. Cordy was such a great choice for the music too. As soon as I heard the phrasing I knew it was him. Matter of time before that guy becomes huge methinks…
Hey How about Blues Image ? Remember "Ride Captain Ride " ? That song has that quintessential 335 sound in the solo. Loved it for years. I believe it dates back to 1970.
Nice to see my cherry Epiphone Lucille off my reverb page in one of your videos...I noticed the green tape and my handwriting right away....glad it could be of use to you...amazing guitar for an Epiphone!!!
Spanky Alford also deserves a mention, he played his signature 335 and his work with d'angelo and the soultronics basically defined neo soul as a genre
Top of the list is solid. Glad Larry was at #3. Wondering if Rick B. Influenced that rating, lol. Had the pleasure of talking with Larry at a meet and greet before one of his shows. As nice and humble as one can be. Took pictures and autographed that same 1979 issue of GP you had in the video . Please keep making these, even it the list of what are considered iconic guitars is shrinking.
Steve Howe sure changed my world and should be high on this list. Putting some guy from Oasis at #5 on this list and over Alex Lifeson?? - we all make mistakes Keith. We love your videos, keep on making them.
I know it's already been mentioned numerous times, but overlooking Alvin Lee in favor of Marty McFly, Noel Gallagher or Dave Grohl was a criminal oversight. And Ritchie Blackmore should have at least received an honorable mention. Still enjoyed the video, though. 👍
@@fivewattworld Heheh... Yeah, after I posted that, I thought it was probably too strong a word, but I assumed you would take it with aplomb. Still, Alvin Lee was pretty legendary, as was his 335 itself.
Well for me it was Lee Ritenour and his 1976 album "First Course" that changed my world. Ritenour is one of the most recorded 335-style guitar players, along with Larry Carlton and Jay Graydon. It took me almost ten years to get a 1962 block ES335 in red. But I found it... 😊
Glad to see Marcus King on the Honorable Mention list. Definitely a great up and coming player. Excited he will be playing down the street from my house in October. Can't wait to see him live.
This is exactly why I can't do top ten ....anything. #2 known for always playing a 355 or "Lucille". Brilliant. Marty McFky? No Alvin Lee? Were you part of Rolling Stones' top 200 guitar players? Sorry. While I've enjoyed some of your reviews such as the Marshall amp history, you missed the mark here by quite a few omissions.
Lee Ritenour should have DEFINITELY been on this list. Maybe bc Keith had put Larry Carlton on it he didn't think he should list both ( since they're so closely related musically ), anyway, Ritenour's a BEAST with the ES-335.
The Gibson ES-335 is my all-time favorite guitar. Watching Marty McFly do his thing on Back to the Future was a seminal moment, but I'm sure falling in love with Chuck Berry's music was just as huge an influence. Even before I had the money to buy one, I wanted one so desperately I settled for a bootleg from Asia, just so I could play one. But I finally was able to save up enough to get one, and it's the guitar I reach for the most. I just love its sound, its versatility, and it is, in my opinion, the most beautiful guitar ever.
Marty’s borrowed 335 was itself something of a time traveler, as it didn’t exist yet in 1955 ;) But it was the right choice for the film and its hat-tip to Mr. Chuck Berry. (I suppose it was also the right choice for Marty to play “Johnny B. Goode”, as opposed to, say, “My Ding-A-Ling”.)
Love your channel. Agree with a few guys on the list and didn't quite get a lot of them. I'm 55 and I have heard of all of them, but I don't see their relevance. One big miss was John Scofield. (335 style)
The players that influenced me to buy my Red ES-335 were Peter Hayes from The Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Noel Gallagher of Oasis , I call my guitar ' A Monster ' because it is so powerful & versatile . Thanks Keith & 5 Watt !
It's all preference.. I bought my Gibson es 335, with block inlays, in 1969... ($700. ) I liked what I seen, like the way it played, and liked the sound...Never once thought who else plays one...
BB Alex Lifeson Larry Carlton Possibly Dave Grohl (but the trini lopez) Maybe Chuck Berry but he played other es guitars just as much Who’s gonna make the list
I'd like to add Robben Ford in the 70s. He played a 335 in the L.A. Express and with Joni Mitchell. His great solo album "The Inside Story" from '79 is still my favorite of his, and was the same 335 mostly thru a Super Reverb. These are the years and sounds of Robben's that really made him top the list of my favorites.
Also a shout out to Lee Ritenour during and after the 70s. Many solo albums and hundreds of studio dates for artists from Benson to Gilmour and countless others all done on his red 335.
Thank you for this video and all your work to make 5 watt world... By the way no complaints from me about the pecking order of 335 or 3** series players. I'm a mostly fender player that appreciates and owns a couple Gibson made guitars.
Really good. Here in Mississippi the most common blues guitar has long been the ES 335. Usually an Epiphone even for experienced players, some few who reach a level of success or just find a remarkable deal move up to a Gibson. There are some who play a Les Paul, a Strat, or some other brands, but the 335 or its brethren are the ax of choice. Look to Kenny Brown, who was RL Burnside's side man and who plays for the Black Keys in addition to solo work, Keith Johnson, Castro "Mr. Sipp" Coleman. Christone "Kingfish" Ingram started with a ES 335 before his star took off and he has his pick of guitars. He still plays a 335 or a Les Paul when he comes home to Clarksdale. Luther Dickinson of the North Mississippi All Stars still plays a 335 though he's mostly moved to Strats and Telecasters from his preferred Gibsons. There's something about the ES 335 that connects with the blues pickers of Mississippi.
8:44 YESSSSS! This movie was so influential for me as a kid. Between that and Teen Wolf I just wanted to grow up to be a teenage guitar-slinging werewolf. In my late 40s, I’m just about there. And never mind the fact that that Gibson didn’t exist in 1955. It’s a movie about time travel!❤
Excellent job as always. Love these videos! When I hear "335" first player that comes to mind is Carlton. One of my biggest influences and favorite players. That being said, I can't argue with putting BB and Chuck Berry 1 and 2 because of the huge influence they have had. Can't wait for a Gretsch or Rickenbacker top 10!
I believe that Alvin Lee was only meaningful for a brief moment, immortalized at in the Woodstock documentary. I have never heard, nor read of any major player saying they were influenced by his playing.
As I've said before, this is my opinion, my list, my video, however you'd like to phrase it. Yours would/is different and that's cool.
Is your opinion based on research or actually listening to his music? Your statement suggests " I have never heard, nor read of any major player saying they were influenced by his playing". Statistics or Taste? Check Joe Bonamassa Playing Alvin Lee's Guitar "Big Red" in Royal Albert Hall
His playing at Woodstock made me want to play fast like him. No doubt it had the same effect on many others.
@@cvdevol As he said his influence was brief.
@@nyobunknown6983 But a LOT of people here are questioning why he wasn't included. Looks like "influence" to me. 54 years after Woodstock.
Could have been included for Cricklewood Green alone... that album was huge to us in California in the 70's.
Justin Hayward fronted The Moody Blues for 55 years playing a ‘63 335 yet he never gets recognition on these kind of lists. He’s the sole reason I started playing. His tone and solos are amazing.
Yep same here!
Here too! One of my favorites and criminally underrated as a singer/guitarist/songwriter.
That’s the reason these lists are all bullshit. Some guy thought that he had come up with some idea that everyone needed to hear; but he is wrong, every single time. It’s essentially’”Where’s Waldo!”…
Who got left off “the list”?…and if it was MY guy, you’d better look out, because MY choice is smarter and, therefore, better than anyone else’s. It’s the desperate quest for parental approval extended into “adulthood”; “Look-a-me, daddeh!”, I ‘member’d tuh say ‘Ten Years After’! Aintcha PROWD?!?”…
“MY list of greatest rock n roll guitarists is UNIQUE…”
“How so? You have Hendrix at number one, like everybody else.”
“Yeah, but my choices for #69 and 84 - not to mention 91 - don’t appear on anybody else’s list…and im fairly certain that that makes me brilliant…I mean, it’s not as if my mom wasn’t clued into my uniqueness from Jump…”
bravo 😑
It’s the yearly yammering on over who “belongs” in the RRHOF in miniature. It doesn’t matter. At all. None of it. Not the actual inductees, not Jann Wenner, not those plates they have in New York City that for some reason cost thousands of dollars to “honor” a form of music whose very simplicity & the ability of amateurs to play it as well - BETTER, actually, much much better - as millionaires, since its attitude & 3-chords that count for more than having money could ever make up for.
Wait, what was the subject again?…
I love rock because of the electric guitar. And that is why I love The Moody Blues. Subtle, understated playing that is always in service to their overall sound (but still jams)...and thus is vastly underrated. Genius!
With a Bigsby Wammy.
No Alvin Lee! Major omission. A great player who played an iconic 335 with the peace sticker.
Another vote for Alvin Lee. His Woodstock performance was iconic. His career as a popular, name guitarist wasn't as prominent as some players, but he burned up Woodstock, and Harvard Stadium in Boston when I saw him up close.
I was going to mention him because he was the reason I wanted a cherry dot 335. I vividly remember hearing the Ten Year's After cover of 'Woodchopper's Ball' on BBC World Service some time in 1980 and have never been so blown away by a guitarist's technical abilities since. That may be down to my own growth as a player but even now I find that track, and the whole 'Undead' album, inspiring to listen to.
Alvin Lee is a must on this list. At least top 3.
Alvin Lee was the shredder of his day, and was the reason I wanted a cherry 335, after hearing him in 1970.
After Chuck Berry, Alvin Lee's 335 is the most iconic one and also the fastest one! Going Home performance from Woodstock is among the most defining guitar moments in history
To me, Alvin Lee was the original shredder. I still listen to Rock & Roll Music to the World to this day. Two things I learned are that he was given several 335s, but would always uncover the pickups, flip them upside down (which would drive Gibson crazy because it would make more noise) but to him it had a sharper sound, also he sometimes cut a hole in the middle to insert a Fender pickup. The second thing was that he said he had tried Strats, which he liked, but he kept hitting the pickup switch by mistake. Thus, history was made by a mistake.
Not that he belongs in the top 10, but Elvin Bishop deserves an Honorable mention. His influence on the west coast players in the 1970's was huge.
He aint good lookin' but he sure can play!
So true. I feel bad I didn't even think of him. Especially since "I Fooled Around and Fell in Love" was playing on the radio when my girlfriend and I decided we were in love, and should move in together, while sitting in line at a Taco Bell drive thru. We got married four years later and that was 32 years ago.
Good call. Seen him, them, at least twice opening for whomever way back when. They did a tight 4O minutes and Bishop did rip...
Nice! 50 year harmonica player here, full-time pro by age 20. Have opened for Elvin Bishop and last weekend I played a gig with Johnny V Vernazza- who is on about 5-6 Elvin B. Albums and whose guitar you hear on "Fooled around and fell in love".
Big Red IS one of the most famous and pivotal 355s in guitar history. The battle between Elvin Bishop and Mike Bloomfield in the epic instrumental "East-West", off the eponymous 1966 Paul Butterfield Blues Band album, pretty much set the standard for rock guitar over the subsequent decades.
Alvin Lee said Big Red was worth too much money to a take on tour, and is probably the most famous 335.
Very surprised there’s no mention of Alvin Lee. I’m Going Home was a real workout to learn and I’m still using those licks today. That said, another great list!
I have to agree with others in the comments here. I'm a big fan of almost everyone on the list, but when I hear the 335 being discussed my thoughts go immediately to Alvin Lee and Big Red. He was an amazing player to watch.
I think Alvin Lee had more influence than some of the younger players that you mention. They may have actually been influenced by Lee.
I really feel like Keith missed the boat for the first time. Alvin Lee is the greatest 335 player. His performance on woodstock is no doubt the most seen actual guitar performance on a 335.
Alvin Lee could be on this list, yes, but, no, not above Larry, B.B., or Chuck.
Alvin should definitely be on the list.
Alvin Lee at Woodstock!!! That was the ear opener for me! Blows ALL these other players away, imo. 😊 I have never owned a 335. Not cheap these days. Lol
Santana blew all away.
@@heimomoilanen9654 I’ll give him a tie for the Woodstock performance. He should’ve stuck with his SG later in life. IMO.
Johnny Rivers was a big influence. We must not forget Alvin Lee.
I was tempted to mention Johnny Rivers too; another hugely influential original talent who I recall played a 335 or similar.
Just so that his name will be mentioned here : Bill Nelson ( Be Bop Deluxe and wonderful solo career ) used a stereo wired 345 for much of Be Bop Deluxe's run.
Wishing you all the best - John
Nice choices for this video. Alvin Lee's iconic Big Red should have a noteworthy mention.
Big vote for Bill Nelson here. A major influence on a generation of guitarists shapedin the 70s…like me! And many others, of course.
Yes !!!
His solo on "...Yorkshire Landscape" from "Live in the Air Age"
@@BillKurn THE greatest live album. EVER!
big yes for Bill from me too!
I'll go with Dave Edmunds. maybe he didn't change the world but his influence on me was incredible. I'd also as Keith Richards. Alvin Lee tore up woodstock with that intro on Goin' Home.
Another vote for Alvin Lee. He literally had a song called "I'd love to change the world".
I agree with the Alvin Lee upvotes. Also, no love for the ES339? I like it because it's a part of the E series but smaller and more comfortable for me. Personally not small (6'-3', 250+lbs) but I always found 335s and the like too big and unwieldy.
How do you create a "Top 10 335 Players Who Changed the World" list without Alvin Lee? He should be at the top of the list. He wrote I'd Love to Change the World! My favorite guitarists on your list are Freddy, B.B., and Chuck. Rock on. :)
Well he got one.
Alvin Lee Ten Years After Check out Woodstock the movie
No.1 HAS TO BE ALVIN LEE!!!!!!!!!!!! (great work though, love the channel) 😠😎
Another great show, though I must agree that the omission of Alvin Lee from at least an honourable mention a little odd, but its your list, not mine 😉
I have been forever haunted by the time I tried a ‘64 cherry red ES-335 in a London vintage guitar shop, about 15 years ago. I was trying out a pedal they had for sale, which I found difficult to focus on as the beautiful guitar in my hands had that weird feeling that it was playing itself. I recently bought an Epiphone 335 and even though I replaced the pickups with Lollar Imperials and the harness with one from Monty’s, its still not giving me much mojo - though it must be said I’ve been fully converted to all things Telecaster since getting one three years ago.
I’ll second that Alvin Lee comment,and raise you an Elvin Bishop,Mr.Crabshaw himself.
Elvin Bishop with Red Dog 👍👍
Alvin Lee, as usual , is again overlooked.
Definitely deserves an honorable mention
No Alvin Lee? Come on. One of the best blues players of all time.
Alvin Lee not being named over Noel Gallager is kinda of messed up
Wonderwall
Don’t Look Back in Anger
Some Might Say
Champagne Supernova
You ought to listen to Oasis’s What’s The Story Morning Glory again or try it if you haven’t.
Ok boomer
Also no one cares about his hand or music these days.
so true
@pookachu64 ok zoomer
Steve Howe's 345 playing on Close to the Edge and Siberian Katru was world changing for me. Steve plays an assortment of guitars. He is most notably famous for the ES 175, but also plays a 335 and 345.
If you ever have a chance to see Yes in concert it is well worth the price. Steve is still at the top of.
God bless you for doing the heavy lifting...Steve Howe left off of ANY list of guitar players (short of best banjo player) is a incomplete examination !
Ditto. He also used the 345 exclusively on ‘Fragile’ before CTTE and on their awesome cover of ‘America’.
Steve got his 175 used when he was just a kid. He stopped traveling with it for fear that it would be stolen, so he used the 335/345 on tour.
@@johnpublic6890 I believe he did have one stolen. Since then, when he travels by air he always books a second seat for "Mr. Gibson" He has a couple of 175's and one 345 (stereo) for Close to the Edge and Siberian Katru. When I saw Yes at the Anaheim Grove Steve had a problem with the 345 and switched to a Les Paul mid song.
Justin Hayward...no one sounded like him with that guitar from 68-71. It sounded like a violin...he was playing like Brian May and Steve Hackett years before they became known. Progressive, melodic and Bach like...he was the first to do it. Listen to the Moody Blues album "To Your Children's, Children's Children" to get an idea of just how majestic his playing was. All on this Gibson 335.
💯
Yeah! Hayward kind of re-invented himself. He went from the "Ride My Seesaw" Telecaster sound to his own 335 sound; starting (I think) with "Threshold of a Dream".
@@robertvavra414 Yes. He kept that tone on all the albums thru Seventh Sojourn. Listen to his playing on the Blue Jays album...I'm surprised he isn't given more credit for his guitar playing...as he is very, very good. His songwriting kind of overshadows his playing, I think.
Honorable mention and some love for Mr. Johnny Rivers. His version of "Memphis" is the one we ALL play.
Great video, but I think Alvin Lee had to be in there, and probably Steve Howe also.
Many many people complained about Alvin Lee not being on the list, but you're the only one I've seen who said anything about Steve Howe, who is definitely deserving.
@@goodun2974 I thought of Steve Howe, too, but his main and most famous axe was an ES-175, very different beast from a 335.
As with all of your videos, I love this one! I would have added Ritchie Blackmore as an honorable mention too. Although he's more known for his work with the Stratocaster, Blackmore used a 335 from his early session work days right up to - and including Deep Purple In Rock... and his mind-blowing solos on the studio versions, and every live version of Child In Time, Wring That Neck, and Mandrake Root prior to 1971 were all played on his red Gibson 335! He definitely set the standard for the term "Shredding," and showed just how blazingly fast he was using that guitar!!!
Matt "Guitar" Murphy was a great blues player and favored 335/345 guitars for a long time.
Alvin Lee at Woodstock should have been on the list instead of McFly
The cover photo of a grizzled Alex Lifeson getting down, is on its own, very inspirational to me. Ritchie Blackmore always comes to mind for me also. Surely Ritchie has to be high on this list?
Ritchie's career was based most with the Strat, than the 335. Granted, Hush and the first record was done with the Gibson, but the classics albums were done on a Strat, unless Blackmore say otherwise. For example, Clapton did the Farewell Concerts, From the Cradle and some Yardbirds performance with the ES 335, but he is most renown with the Les Paul (Bluesbreaker) and the Strat (Derek and the Dominos to present). Also, for me, Johnny Winter is most identifiable with the Firebird, but from the 80's (as far as I recall) to his last performances, it was the Lazer guitar. I could be wrong, but I'll wait what Keith is going to present.
Yeah, I tried to center on folks that used a 3 series as their main instrument.
@@MrRodyf Child in Time was on the 335 as well
@@NavelOrangeGazer I think that Concerto for a Rock Band? I think that's the title or not, he used the 335. I remember seeing the video on a documentary. I think he was pairing the 335 with a Vox AC 30 and a Treble Booster. Correct me, if I'm wrong
Good call, Ritchie established himself with the 335, but he is inextricably linked with the Strat ever since, so perhaps an "Hourable Mention", at best. And I'm a huge Blackmore fan, btw, so no negative bias on my part... 😂😂
Marcus is another King working his way into history. His grandfathers Gibby “Big Red” has been replicated by Gibson too. Cool story. Great player!
Hear, Hear I say to those that Know the Great ALVIN LEE..... CB & BB are now doubt 1&2! But It's a miscarriage to not have ALVIN LEE at #3!!!!!!!! From Woodstock to long legs and the BLUEST BLUES how could he not even be an honorable mention at least!!!!! The Horror!!!!! Literally!!! To those who posted before me about ALVIN LEE, I send much praise!!.Yes we do know!!! I'm thinking of that rag mag that recently left out so many that should have been on their list, and many that should be kicked to the curb of the real talent that has been out there and those that are still around or to come. Yes Keith we all do have our opinions. And I do love your channel!! But as that sniveling socialist Greta T. says {How Dare You}......Lol.. Just keeping the history real..... Merry Christmas to you all.............And as Joe Bonamassa would say... Lets keeps the blues alive!!!!!!!!! Many Blessings to you all..................
Just watched Vince Gill slaying his blonde 335 last night. Such an amazing player and instrument.
Awesome! He’s a really good guy and actually a pretty good golfer.
I live in Macon Ga. He played a benefit show for Alzheimers here some years ago. For the show they brought out Duane Allman’s Les Paul for Vince to play. It was quite a night!
I used to live in GA, not too far from you. We went to the state fair and saw Vince Gill standing behind a fence talking to some fans before his show. He was wearing his dress shirt for the concert and a pair of flowered board shorts.😂 I really like his music. This would have been in about 1991. @@edwardyazinski3858
Not a word about Steve Howe??? the man single handed crafted the sound of an era out of his 345 (let alone his virtuoso, body of work etc.)
It's about the 355.
Love this list. The spoof of Marty McFly is no joke. That guitar is still a dream acquisition for me because of that film and the actual #5 Noel Gallagher. But at the very least, Alvin Lee and John Lee Hooker deserve an honorable mention.
Magic. I was trying to save this for Saturday morning and coffee (and I’ll probably rewatch then too), but I just couldn’t resist! Another amazing video, Mr. Keith. Very anticipated by me, and did not disappoint, how could it!
Much, much thanks to you for this video and all the outstanding work you do. I hope you get to have a fun holiday break and reflect on all the good you put into the world for so many of us. Take care, be kind to yourself, and a very happy holiday season to you. 😌🎄✨
Alex Lifeson already mentioned, but just my two cents: the black and white live footage of Rush doing 2112 in 1976 features some of the greatest electric guitar tones I've ever heard.
Indeed. I wonder why he abandoned his white 335 later, such a pity.
I love the non-obviousness of some of these choices. I also love that at least half of them don't play 335's, but 345's, 355's and in on case, a Trini Lopez. As a former ES-345 owner, I enjoy the inclusion of the Varitone switch equipped models. I used to get asked what guitar I played, and when I answered "a 345" people would almost always reply "you mean a 335, right?" Nope. Two other notable 345 players were Jorma Kaukonen and Elvin Bishop.
Maybe not a soloist, but Roy Orbison was also associated with the model.
Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues still plays his 335 and is a player not always given his just dues.
I’m adding Justin Hayward of the Moody Blues to that list. The sound quality and performance on his 335 did indeed change the lives of many around the world for the better.
Leaving off Alvin Lee was both sinful and dispectful. You catered too much to the young ones at Alvin's expense. Your work up till now has been almost perfect. I'm sure you'll get it right next time Keith.
You do great videos Keith. I wish I could “Patreonize” all my favorite channels on RUclips but, I’m old, fixed income, etc. So all I can do is say Thank You!
I read this as "the top 10,355 players."
And I thought, gee, that's an ambitious list for year end from 5 Watt World.
For me, after B.B. and Chuck, the 335 is synonymous with Pearl Thompson of The Cure. Pearl slinging that red 50's 55 is the essence of rock and roll.
Porl?
Man, you forgot Rick Derringer, who played one of the greatest solos ever on "Back In The USA" on the "Roadwork" album...
From England, I will say Johnny Marr from The Smiths and Bernard Butler from Suede, (or the London Suede if you're in the States 😉)...both incredible 355 players
So pleased to see Chuck Berry in his rightful place. Influential begins and ends with him.
Noël Gallagher makes the list and Alvin Lee doesn’t? Usually love your stuff, Keith, but come on....
Not a big Alvin Lee fan. Name something after Woodstock?
@@fivewattworld Fair enough. I’m not a big fan of Noël Gallagher, so....
I recently pulled out my old cd of What’s The Story Morning Glory from Oasis. Noel Gallagher deserves a spot on the list. Those songs are very memorable and are currently stuck in my head.
@@davidgood6744 I couldn’t name an Oasis song beyond Champagne Supernova, and I loathe Champagne Supernova. I disagree.
...and I have no idea why my iPad keeps putting umlauts on his name.... Just noticed that.
"hip RUclipsrs" and cuts to Rick and Tim. Nice one 😂
Another well done doc. Your shows remind me of watching MTV "Behind the Music" from the 90s, but more informative. And possibly better - I can only remember the tone and general effect of "Behind the Music". But I always liked those too.
Another excellent bluesman, wonderful human and my best friend, is my brother Dave. I’ll never forget the day back in August of 1996 when he brought home his brand new blonde Gibson 335 dot. I believe he paid $900 for it at Long and McQuade. He still has it, it’s had new nuts, new frets, new tuners, new switches over the years, sports some pretty good belt buckle rash on the back and pick marks on the front… but nowadays his Frankencaster is his go-to.
Another awesome video, Keith! Had to smile when you flashed the 2012 B.B. King tour poster during his segment. I opened for him on the Pittsburgh date of that tour (a surreal experience) and asked his tech if I could take a picture holding that particular “Lucille” after the show. Unfortunately, that was a bridge too far to cross and I had to settle for one standing a safe distance away from it. Finally bought a black 335 this year to get one in my hands! Cheers and happy holidays!
I kept waiting to hear the name: Dave Edmunds with his Black Gibson ES-335. I saw him use this guitar on stage with Rockpile!
Great video! Happy to say I own one of the 2013 olive Chris Cornell guitars and it is an excellent sounding guitar, everybody who hears it is always blown away. Surprisingly it does high gain sounds particularly well.
Love those, I’m jealous.
17:27 Woah, is that Ringo in the background?
Now the series gets to the truley exceptional talents! 😊 You rock Keith.
Alex Lifeson = Beast Mode on guitar.
Epic video. Cordy was such a great choice for the music too. As soon as I heard the phrasing I knew it was him. Matter of time before that guy becomes huge methinks…
I was just gifted a new Gibson 335 (natural) by my brother-n-law. I am psyched!
Hey
How about Blues Image ?
Remember "Ride Captain Ride " ?
That song has that quintessential 335 sound in the solo.
Loved it for years.
I believe it dates back to 1970.
Nice to see my cherry Epiphone Lucille off my reverb page in one of your videos...I noticed the green tape and my handwriting right away....glad it could be of use to you...amazing guitar for an Epiphone!!!
Trini Lopez was a film actor too e.g. the Dirty Dozen. Perhaps the first Latin American 'star' to make it big in the US mainstream. Very important!
Spanky Alford also deserves a mention, he played his signature 335 and his work with d'angelo and the soultronics basically defined neo soul as a genre
Once again a great list that was well produced and presented!
Merry Christmas to you and your family
Top of the list is solid. Glad Larry was at #3. Wondering if Rick B. Influenced that rating, lol. Had the pleasure of talking with Larry at a meet and greet before one of his shows. As nice and humble as one can be. Took pictures and autographed that same 1979 issue of GP you had in the video . Please keep making these, even it the list of what are considered iconic guitars is shrinking.
Alex lifesons will always be his original tobacco burst. Watch his movie of home film from the 60s-70s its legendary
Steve Howe and Alvin Lee should be there... or at least honorable mention.
Steve Howe sure changed my world and should be high on this list. Putting some guy from Oasis at #5 on this list and over Alex Lifeson?? - we all make mistakes Keith. We love your videos, keep on making them.
I know it's already been mentioned numerous times, but overlooking Alvin Lee in favor of Marty McFly, Noel Gallagher or Dave Grohl was a criminal oversight. And Ritchie Blackmore should have at least received an honorable mention. Still enjoyed the video, though. 👍
Criminal? That’s a little strong don’t you think?
I’m so glad you mentioned Noel Gallagher, Dave Grohl, and Marty McFly. It’s only rock-n-roll.
@@fivewattworld Heheh... Yeah, after I posted that, I thought it was probably too strong a word, but I assumed you would take it with aplomb. Still, Alvin Lee was pretty legendary, as was his 335 itself.
Forgot Blackmore. And, yes, Alvin Lee, of course
Well for me it was Lee Ritenour and his 1976 album "First Course" that changed my world. Ritenour is one of the most recorded 335-style guitar players, along with Larry Carlton and Jay Graydon. It took me almost ten years to get a 1962 block ES335 in red. But I found it... 😊
This video is great. The 335 is such an "also ran" guitar. I never thought about key players until watching. Well done!
Glad to see Marcus King on the Honorable Mention list. Definitely a great up and coming player. Excited he will be playing down the street from my house in October. Can't wait to see him live.
This is exactly why I can't do top ten ....anything. #2 known for always playing a 355 or "Lucille". Brilliant. Marty McFky? No Alvin Lee? Were you part of Rolling Stones' top 200 guitar players? Sorry. While I've enjoyed some of your reviews such as the Marshall amp history, you missed the mark here by quite a few omissions.
Excellent! I’m a 335 player,I have several in my cave.
Same!!! 👍
Alvin Lee not on this list and not even mentioned come on ! You do better work than this.
Sort of that one moment at Woodstock
@@fivewattworldwell from what I see from the comments if Woodstock was all he had it touched a lot of people. Merry Christmas
Lee Ritenour should have DEFINITELY been on this list. Maybe bc Keith had put Larry Carlton on it he didn't think he should list both ( since they're so closely related musically ), anyway, Ritenour's a BEAST with the ES-335.
I just cheered all the way through this!!! GLORIOUS!!!
The Gibson ES-335 is my all-time favorite guitar. Watching Marty McFly do his thing on Back to the Future was a seminal moment, but I'm sure falling in love with Chuck Berry's music was just as huge an influence.
Even before I had the money to buy one, I wanted one so desperately I settled for a bootleg from Asia, just so I could play one. But I finally was able to save up enough to get one, and it's the guitar I reach for the most. I just love its sound, its versatility, and it is, in my opinion, the most beautiful guitar ever.
Marty’s borrowed 335 was itself something of a time traveler, as it didn’t exist yet in 1955 ;) But it was the right choice for the film and its hat-tip to Mr. Chuck Berry. (I suppose it was also the right choice for Marty to play “Johnny B. Goode”, as opposed to, say, “My Ding-A-Ling”.)
Elvin Bishop
BB vs Chuck is a tough call, but ultimately I think you got it right.
Otis Rush and Little Milton.
Love your channel. Agree with a few guys on the list and didn't quite get a lot of them. I'm 55 and I have heard of all of them, but I don't see their relevance. One big miss was John Scofield. (335 style)
The players that influenced me to buy my Red ES-335 were Peter Hayes from The Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Noel Gallagher of Oasis , I call my guitar ' A Monster ' because it is so powerful & versatile . Thanks Keith & 5 Watt !
It's all preference.. I bought my Gibson es 335, with block inlays, in 1969... ($700. ) I liked what I seen, like the way it played, and liked the sound...Never once thought who else plays one...
BB
Alex Lifeson
Larry Carlton
Possibly Dave Grohl (but the trini lopez)
Maybe Chuck Berry but he played other es guitars just as much
Who’s gonna make the list
Fantastic video as always, Keith
I'd like to add Robben Ford in the 70s. He played a 335 in the L.A. Express and with Joni Mitchell. His great solo album "The Inside Story" from '79 is still my favorite of his, and was the same 335 mostly thru a Super Reverb. These are the years and sounds of Robben's that really made him top the list of my favorites.
Also a shout out to Lee Ritenour during and after the 70s. Many solo albums and hundreds of studio dates for artists from Benson to Gilmour and countless others all done on his red 335.
Love the shoutout to Norah Jones for her transcendent cover of Black Hole Sun.
Immaculate timing…just modding an Epi 335 with vibrato bridge and Filtertron pickup.
Thank you for this video and all your work to make 5 watt world... By the way no complaints from me about the pecking order of 335 or 3** series players. I'm a mostly fender player that appreciates and owns a couple Gibson made guitars.
Really good. Here in Mississippi the most common blues guitar has long been the ES 335. Usually an Epiphone even for experienced players, some few who reach a level of success or just find a remarkable deal move up to a Gibson. There are some who play a Les Paul, a Strat, or some other brands, but the 335 or its brethren are the ax of choice. Look to Kenny Brown, who was RL Burnside's side man and who plays for the Black Keys in addition to solo work, Keith Johnson, Castro "Mr. Sipp" Coleman. Christone "Kingfish" Ingram started with a ES 335 before his star took off and he has his pick of guitars. He still plays a 335 or a Les Paul when he comes home to Clarksdale. Luther Dickinson of the North Mississippi All Stars still plays a 335 though he's mostly moved to Strats and Telecasters from his preferred Gibsons. There's something about the ES 335 that connects with the blues pickers of Mississippi.
Don't forget Jesse Robinson, who has been a staple in Mississippi for decades and toured as the frontman of B.B. King's road band after B.B. died.
8:44 YESSSSS! This movie was so influential for me as a kid. Between that and Teen Wolf I just wanted to grow up to be a teenage guitar-slinging werewolf. In my late 40s, I’m just about there. And never mind the fact that that Gibson didn’t exist in 1955. It’s a movie about time travel!❤
Kerry Livgren was the 1st guy to make me want a 335. Alex Lifeson is one of my all time favorites. And Freddie King really put a 335 to good use.
When I saw Kansas Livgren was already using a Dean.
Excellent choice for number one there is nobody else that could be number one he’s the reason I started to play
Excellent job as always. Love these videos! When I hear "335" first player that comes to mind is Carlton. One of my biggest influences and favorite players. That being said, I can't argue with putting BB and Chuck Berry 1 and 2 because of the huge influence they have had. Can't wait for a Gretsch or Rickenbacker top 10!