Paul McCartney Reveals His Favourite Four Guitarists — A Heartfelt Tribute to Musical Greatness
Introduction: When a Legend Picks His Heroes
When someone like Paul McCartney, whose influence has shaped the sound of modern music for over six decades, shares who he considers the greatest guitarists, fans naturally pay attention. This isn’t just another ranking—it’s a deeply personal glimpse into the musical soul of a man who has worked with, admired, and been inspired by some of the finest players in history.
In a candid interview, Paul McCartney opened up about his favourite guitarists—those who left the deepest impression on him throughout his life and career. And while the list includes some expected legends, the reasons behind each choice reveal far more than just technical admiration.
Jimi Hendrix — The Bold Innovator
It comes as no surprise that Jimi Hendrix is one of McCartney’s top picks.
Paul has spoken many times about his admiration for Hendrix’s fearless, revolutionary approach to the guitar. One story that McCartney loves to tell is how Hendrix, just two days after the release of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band” in 1967, opened his live show with a rendition of the title track.
“That was mind-blowing,” Paul recalled. “It was the ultimate compliment.”
For McCartney, Hendrix wasn’t just about showmanship—he represented pure musical freedom. His ability to make the guitar wail, cry, and scream like no one before him continues to resonate deeply with Paul.
Eric Clapton — The Master of Emotion
Next on McCartney’s list is Eric Clapton, whom he calls a guitarist of “pure feeling.”
Paul’s connection to Clapton isn’t just from afar. Clapton famously contributed the stunning guitar solo on George Harrison’s “While My Guitar Gently Weeps”, a moment in Beatles history that remains iconic to this day.
“Eric doesn’t just play notes,” Paul noted. “He plays the soul behind the notes.”
It’s Clapton’s ability to convey raw emotion through the strings—whether it’s blues, rock, or ballads—that earned him a permanent place in Paul’s heart.
George Harrison — The Underrated Genius
Of course, no list would be complete without George Harrison, McCartney’s bandmate, friend, and creative partner for so many years.
While George was often seen as the “quiet Beatle”, McCartney has always championed his brilliance, particularly his growth as a guitarist over the years.
“George played to serve the song,” Paul explained. “He wasn’t about flash. He was about melody, feeling, and precision.”
From the haunting slide guitar on “Something” to the crisp solo on “Nowhere Man”, George’s playing was subtle but unforgettable. His sensitivity and melodic instincts added a layer of sophistication to The Beatles’ music that’s often underappreciated.
Jeff Beck — The Guitarist’s Guitarist
Rounding out the list is the late, great Jeff Beck, whom McCartney describes as one of the most technically gifted yet soulful players to ever pick up the instrument.
“Jeff could make the guitar talk, sing, whisper, scream—whatever he wanted,” Paul said.
Unlike many players focused on speed or flash, Beck’s mastery was in his tone, phrasing, and the endless creativity he brought to every performance. Whether it was jazz fusion, blues, or rock, Beck was always pushing boundaries.
Conclusion: A Celebration of Musical Soul
What stands out about McCartney’s choices isn’t just the technical mastery these players had—but the emotional depth, creativity, and uniqueness they brought to their music.
For Paul McCartney, the greatest guitarists are those who make the guitar feel like an extension of the human voice—players who aren’t just heard, but felt.
His tribute to Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, George Harrison, and Jeff Beck isn’t just about guitar skills. It’s a celebration of music as a form of storytelling, emotion, and pure human expression.