Music

Most iconic rock guitars

Explore the most influential and legendary electric guitars that have shaped rock history. Discover the iconic instruments wielded by legendary guitarists, from Fender Stratocaster and Gibson Les Paul models to unique custom creations. This list celebrates the guitars that not only produced unforgettable sounds but also became cultural symbols of rock 'n' roll. Ideal for music enthusiasts, guitarists, and collectors looking to delve into the legacy of these historic instruments.

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  1. 1

    Eric Clapton's "Blackie" Stratocaster (Early 1970s)

    141 Global Votes
    • Eric Clapton's main recording and performance guitar

      (+4)

    Blackie was Eric Clapton's main stage guitar for over a decade, becoming an iconic instrument in blues and rock. Its sound is deeply embedded in his post-Cream career and legendary performances.

  2. 2

    Gibson SG (1961)

    139 Global Votes
    • Features beveled mahogany body

      (+4)

    The Gibson SG is a rock and roll staple, famously used by Tony Iommi and Angus Young. Its lightweight, double-cutaway body and powerful tone make it a favorite for hard rock and metal genres.

  3. 3

    Tom Morello's "Arm the Homeless" (1986)

    138 Global Votes
    • Featured on 22 albums

      (+4)

    This custom-built guitar is iconic due to its association with Tom Morello's innovative and politically charged playing. Its unique modifications and sound defined his style in Rage Against the Machine and Audioslave.

  4. 4

    Jimmy Page's "Number One" Les Paul (1959)

    138 Global Votes
    • Became Jimmy Page's most iconic instrument

      (+4)

    Number One was Jimmy Page's primary guitar with Led Zeppelin, defining the sound of an era. Its thick, sustaining tone is heard on countless classic rock anthems, making it a cornerstone of rock history.

  5. 5

    Jimi Hendrix's Monterey Stratocaster

    66 Global Votes
    • Most well-known guitar

      (+4)

    This hand-painted Fender Stratocaster became iconic at the 1967 Monterey Pop Festival, where Hendrix famously set it on fire. It symbolizes his explosive showmanship and artistic expression.

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  7. 6

    Fender Stratocaster (1954)

    10 Global Votes
    • Definitive and groundbreaking instrument

      (+4)

    The Stratocaster is one of the most recognizable guitars in rock history, favored by legends like Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton. Its versatile sound and comfortable design have made it an enduring classic across multiple genres.

  8. 7

    Rickenbacker 360 (1963)

    7 Global Votes
    • Accurate replica of George Harrison's famous model

      (+4)

    The Rickenbacker 360 is a symbol of the British Invasion sound, made famous by George Harrison. Its unique semi-hollow body and jangly tone have cemented its place in rock history.

  9. 8

    Gibson Flying V (1958)

    6 Global Votes
    • Radical, futuristic body design

    The Gibson Flying V became iconic through its use by influential guitarists like Michael Schenker. Its radical, futuristic V-shaped body design solidified its place in hard rock and metal.

  10. 9

    Eddie Van Halen's Frankenstrat (1976)

    1 Global Votes
    • DIY masterpiece

      (+4)

    This custom-built guitar embodies Eddie Van Halen's innovative spirit and revolutionary playing style. Its unique construction and iconic striped finish made it a symbol of hard rock and shred guitar.

  11. 10

    Gibson Les Paul (1952)

    0 Global Votes
    • One of the first Les Paul models ever made

      (+4)

    The Gibson Les Paul is synonymous with powerful rock 'n' roll tones and exceptional sustain, chosen by guitar heroes such as Jimmy Page and Slash. Its robust construction and rich sound have cemented its place as a timeless classic.

  12. 11

    Fender Telecaster (1951)

    0 Global Votes
    • First mass-produced solidbody electric guitar

      (+4)

    As one of the first mass-produced electric guitars, the Telecaster is a pioneer in rock history, known for its simple design and bright, twangy sound. It remains a versatile and reliable choice for many rock genres.

  13. 12

    Ibanez JEM (1987)

    0 Global Votes
    • Features a "monkey grip"

      (+4)

    The Ibanez JEM, especially Steve Vai's 'Evo,' is an icon of virtuoso guitar playing and shred music. It pushed the boundaries of guitar design and playability, inspiring a generation of technical guitarists.

  14. 13

    Billy Gibbons' "Pearly Gates" Les Paul Standard (1959)

    0 Global Votes
    • Voice heard on every ZZ Top recording

      (+4)

    Pearly Gates is one of the most famous Les Pauls, integral to ZZ Top's iconic blues-rock sound. Billy Gibbons has used this legendary 1959 Gibson Les Paul Standard on every ZZ Top record since 1971.

  15. 14

    David Gilmour's Black Strat (Signature Model)

    0 Global Votes
    • Integral part of iconic rock tracks

      (+4)

    The Black Strat is central to the sound of Pink Floyd and David Gilmour's solo work. This modified black Fender Stratocaster is renowned for creating some of rock's most atmospheric and melodic guitar passages.

  16. 15

    Stevie Ray Vaughan's Number One Stratocaster

    0 Global Votes
    • Used by Stevie Ray Vaughan for much of his career

      (+4)

    Number One is synonymous with Stevie Ray Vaughan's electrifying blues-rock playing. Its distinctive sound and heavily worn appearance are instantly recognizable to fans of his influential music.

  17. 16

    Yngwie Malmsteen's "The Duck" Fender Stratocaster (1972)

    0 Global Votes
    • Purchased in teenage years

      (+4)

    The Duck is Yngwie Malmsteen's most famous guitar and has been his main instrument since 1978. Its scalloped fingerboard and specific pickups defined the sound of neoclassical shred guitar.

  18. 17

    Tony Iommi's 1964 Gibson SG (1964)

    0 Global Votes

    This modified Gibson SG is iconic for its role in pioneering heavy metal with Black Sabbath. Iommi's innovative techniques and the guitar's sound created a dark, heavy tone that influenced generations of metal guitarists.

  19. 18

    Neil Young's "Old Black" Les Paul Goldtop (1953)

    0 Global Votes
    • Neil Young's primary electric guitar

      (+4)

    Old Black has been Neil Young's primary guitar for nearly 50 years, contributing to his raw and distinctive sound across his extensive career. Its modifications and history make it truly iconic.

  20. 19

    PRS Custom 24 (1985)

    0 Global Votes
    • Original PRS production model

      (+4)

    While a modern classic, the PRS Custom 24 has quickly become an iconic instrument, favored by artists like Carlos Santana. It's celebrated for its blend of sound versatility, beauty, and unparalleled craftsmanship.