6 Epic Guitar Solos On Songs That Were Actually Played by Someone Else

Music is a universe of surprises, where the magic behind a song doesn’t always come from where you think it does. Imagine your favorite guitar solo; the chances are, the lightning fingers behind those notes might not belong to someone in the band. The following six solos are iconic examples where outside musicians stepped in, adding their unique touch to tracks that have since gone down in history.

1. “Beat It” by Michael Jackson – Eddie Van Halen

When it comes to unforgettable guitar solos, “Beat It” by Michael Jackson stands out. What might come as a surprise is that the electrifying guitar solo that takes the song to another level was played by Eddie Van Halen, a legend in his own right. Eddie wasn’t a part of Michael’s usual crew. He was the lead guitarist of the rock band Van Halen. The story goes that when asked to contribute to the song, Eddie added his magic, transforming the track into a masterpiece that’s a mix of pop and rock. His work on this song broke barriers between genres, showing that music is a language that speaks across different styles.

2. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” by The Beatles – Eric Clapton

Another surprise comes from The Beatles’ track “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.” George Harrison, a Beatle known for his guitar skills, wanted to add a distinct touch to this song. So, he invited his friend Eric Clapton to play the solo. Clapton, who had made a name for himself with his extraordinary guitar skills, was hesitant at first. He worried about being an outsider, but Harrison convinced him. The result was magical. Clapton’s emotional and powerful solo added depth to the song, making it a memorable piece in The Beatles’ repertoire. This collaboration also highlighted the beautiful things that can happen when artists from different backgrounds come together.

3. “Givin’ Em What They Love” by Janelle Monáe – Prince

Prince, a musical genius known for his multi-instrumental talents, played a scorching guitar solo on Janelle Monáe’s track “Givin’ Em What They Love.” This song, which blends funk, rock, and pop, needed a solo that could capture all these elements, and Prince delivered with his signature flair. His solo is full of the passion and energy that he was known for, with each note reflecting his unique style and approach to music.

Prince’s contribution to this track goes beyond just a simple guest appearance; his guitar work is integral to the song’s identity. The solo he played adds a layer of complexity and excitement, pushing the track into new territory. Even though he wasn’t a regular member of Monáe’s band, Prince’s influence on “Givin’ Em What They Love” is undeniable, making it one of the standout tracks on the album.

4. “Get it While You Can” by Janis Joplin – Clarence Clemons

Janis Joplin’s powerful voice in “Get it While You Can” needed a solo that matched its intensity. Enter Clarence Clemons, a saxophonist best known for his work with Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band. Although primarily a sax player, Clarence’s guitar work on this track works perfectly with Joplin’s raw emotion. His contribution added a layer of depth and soul that complemented Janis’s vocal delivery, creating a perfect blend of instrumental and vocal prowess. This instance shows how stepping out of one’s comfort zone can result in something truly special.

5. “With a Little Help from My Friends” by Joe Cocker – Jimmy Page

Before becoming a rock legend with Led Zeppelin, Jimmy Page was a highly sought-after session guitarist. His work on Joe Cocker’s cover of The Beatles’ “With a Little Help from My Friends” is one of his standout contributions. The solo in this track is raw and powerful, reflecting the emotional depth of Cocker’s vocal performance. Page’s playing weaves in and out of the song, complementing the arrangement while adding his signature style.

The solo itself is a mix of bluesy bends and powerful riffs that build tension and release it in a way that only Page could. His guitar work on this track is a prime example of how a guest musician can elevate a song, bringing a level of artistry that perfectly matches the intensity of the vocalist. Even though Page wasn’t a part of Cocker’s band, his solo is one of the defining elements of this classic track.

6. “Infatuation” by Rod Stewart – Jeff Beck

Jeff Beck’s guitar solo on Rod Stewart’s “Infatuation” is a masterclass in blending technical skill with pure emotion. Beck, a legendary guitarist in his own right, was brought in to add some extra firepower to the track. His solo is a thrilling mix of rapid-fire licks and melodic phrases that give the song its edge. What makes this solo stand out is Beck’s ability to balance speed with expression, making each note count.

The solo in “Infatuation” isn’t just a burst of energy; it’s a carefully crafted piece of music that enhances the overall mood of the song. Beck’s playing is both aggressive and controlled, showing off his technical prowess while still serving the needs of the track. Even though he wasn’t part of Stewart’s band, his contribution was crucial in turning “Infatuation” into a hit, demonstrating the value of bringing in an outside musician to add a fresh perspective.