It’s no secret that a great way to improve your guitar playing skills is to listen to music. But what if you could take it one step further and actually learn from the masters? By listening to classic rock albums, you can not only get inspired by some of the greatest guitar players of all time, but you can also learn new licks and ideas to incorporate into your own playing.
Here are 10 classic rock albums that every guitar player should listen to:
The Who – Who’s Next
Who’s Next is an album that inspire many guitar licks, chords and techniques. It was a Game Changer when it came out in 1971. This was The Who at their Hard Rock Best! Keith Moon’s Drums, Entwistle’s Bass, Roger Daltrey’s Vocals and Pete Townshend’s Guitar and songwriting all came together to make this a Masterpiece!
“Won’t Get Fooled Again”, “Baba O’Riley”, and “Behind Blue Eyes” are just a few of the songs that made this album great! If you are a fan of Hard Rock, then you owe it to yourself to check out The Who. Not only Who’s Next but any of The Who albums will provide you with hours of guitar inspiration!
Led Zeppelin – Led Zeppelin IV
This is one of the most popular and influential albums of all time. It has sold over 37 million copies and is often considered one of the greatest albums ever made. “Stairway to Heaven” is one of the most popular songs in history and has been covered by countless artists.
The album has a variety of different styles including hard rock, folk, and even blues. “Rock and Roll”, “Black Dog”, and “When the Levee Breaks” are some of the highlights of this classic album. If you want to learn more about Led Zeppelin’s guitar style, then this is the album to start with.
The Jimi Hendrix Experience – Are You Experienced?
What guitar licks list could be complete without the one and only Jimi Hendrix? His debut album, Are You Experienced?, is packed full of some of the greatest guitar playing ever captured on record. If you want to learn how to play like Jimi, then this is the album for you.
“Purple Haze”, “Fire”, and “The Wind Cries Mary” are just a few of the Hendrix classics that you will find on this album. If you are looking to improve your guitar skills, then you need to check out Are You Experienced?
Cream – Disraeli Gears
Cream was a power trio that featured Eric Clapton on guitar, Jack Bruce on bass, and Ginger Baker on drums. They only released four studio albums, but Disraeli Gears is considered by many to be their best.
This album features some of the greatest blues-rock guitar playing ever captured on record. If you want to learn how to play like Eric Clapton, then this is the album for you. “Crossroads”, “Sunshine of Your Love”, and “Strange Brew” are just a few of the highlights from Disraeli Gears.
The Beatles – Abbey Road
The Beatles are one of the most popular and influential bands of all time. They have released some of the greatest albums in history, and Abbey Road is no exception. This album features some of the best guitar work from George Harrison and John Lennon.
“Here Comes the Sun”, “Something”, and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” are just a few of the highlights from this classic album. If you want to learn more about The Beatles’ guitar style, then this is the album to start with.
The Rolling Stones – Some Girls
Featuring some of the best guitar work from Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, Some Girls is a must-have for any fan of The Rolling Stones. This album features a mix of rock, disco, and punk that is sure to get your toes tapping.
“Miss You”, “Respectable”, and ” Beast of Burden” are just a few of the highlights from this classic album. If you want to learn more about The Rolling Stones’ guitar style, then this is the album to start with.
Lynyrd Skynyrd – (Pronounced ‘Lĕh-‘nérd ‘Skin-‘nérd)
Lynyrd Skynyrd is a southern rock band that is best known for their hit song “Sweet Home Alabama”. This album features some of the best guitar work from Ed King and Gary Rossington.
“Sweet Home Alabama”, “Gimme Three Steps”, and “Saturday Night Special” are just a few of the highlights from this classic album.
Van Halen – Van Halen
Featuring some of the best guitar work from Eddie Van Halen, Van Halen is a must-have for any fan of hard rock. This album features a mix of catchy hooks and blistering solos that are sure to get your head banging.
“Ain’t Talkin’ ‘Bout Love”, “Runnin’ with the Devil”, and “You Really Got Me” are just a few of the highlights from this classic album. If you want to learn more about Van Halen’s guitar style, then this is the album to start with.
AC/DC – Back in Black
There’s no denying the impact that this album had on rock guitar. Angus Young’s riffs are some of the most iconic in rock history, and his playing style is instantly recognizable. The combination of the perfect guitar licks combined with the thick overdriven amp creates a sound that is truly unique.
In addition to the lead guitar from Angus, we are treated to some of the best rhythm guitar work by Malcom on tracks like “Hells Bells” and “You Shook Me All Night Long”.
If you want to improve your guitar skills, then this is an essential album to listen to.
Pink Floyd – The Dark Side of the Moon
If you are looking to learn and get comfortable with guitar effects, then this is the album for you. David Gilmour’s use of delay and reverb is simply legendary, and his playing on this album is some of the best ever captured on record.
“Money”, “Us and Them”, and “Time” are just a few of the highlights from this classic album. From start to finish, there is not a weak track on this album. If you want to improve your guitar skills and explore new sounds, then this is the album for you.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the classic rock albums that every guitar player should listen to. By studying the playing of these greats, you can not only improve your guitar skills but also get inspired to write your own music. So, put on your favorite album and start shredding!
