4 Classic Rock Guitar Solos That Blow Our Minds Every Time We Hear Them

The Art of the Guitar Solo

Few things in rock music are as thrilling as a great guitar solo. Whether it’s a soaring melody or a burst of wild energy, solos give guitarists a chance to show emotion and skill at the same time. They can lift a song to a new level, making it unforgettable even decades later.

There are countless great solos in classic rock, but some stand above the rest—those moments when a guitarist takes control of the song and leaves you stunned. Here are four solos that never fail to amaze, from Zappa’s creative fire to Skynyrd’s highway anthem.

“Stargazer” — Ritchie Blackmore’s Rainbow

In “Stargazer,” Ritchie Blackmore delivers a solo that proves his technical precision and creative phrasing. The 1976 track is full of energy, but around the four-minute mark, Blackmore goes beyond the rhythm and lets loose a solo that sounds both fierce and melodic. His control and speed show why he remains one of rock’s most respected guitarists.

Every note feels intentional, even in the middle of his intense playing. The solo pushes the song’s dramatic story even further, adding a sense of grandeur that matches Ronnie James Dio’s powerful vocals. It’s the kind of performance that keeps listeners hooked from start to finish.

“Montana” — Frank Zappa

Frank Zappa’s solos were always unpredictable, and his live version of “Montana” from the 1973 Opopoppa Special proves it. Known for his improvisation, Zappa made each performance unique. His “Montana” solo lasts nearly three minutes and feels spontaneous, yet controlled.

The recorded version is strong, but live, Zappa pushes it further—stretching melodies, experimenting with tone, and showing complete command of his instrument. As the writer shared, “The recorded solo is good, but listening to Zappa live is always best.” It’s a reminder of how real artistry thrives in the moment.

“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” — Blue Öyster Cult

“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” is known for its haunting calm, but the solo is where the song truly finds its strength. The guitars stay clear and clean, but when the middle section slows down, the solo emerges like a doorway to another world. It builds tension and then releases it with precision, making the track unforgettable.

The writer described it perfectly: “The solo feels like a transition through the underworld and back out again, creating its own narrative to bolster the lyrics.” It’s a moment that adds emotional depth to an already timeless song.

“Free Bird” — Lynyrd Skynyrd

“Free Bird” is a southern rock classic with one of the most recognizable guitar solos ever recorded. The song starts slow and soulful, then builds into a roaring finale that seems to go on forever. As the tempo rises, the dual guitars of Allen Collins and Gary Rossington create a rush of energy that captures both freedom and chaos.

The solo has a cinematic feel—it’s easy to imagine a car speeding down an open highway, much like the listener’s own heart racing with every note. As the writer put it, “I’m not responsible for what I do when the ‘Free Bird’ guitar solo is on.” It’s a moment of pure release, where the guitars take over and the song becomes something larger than life.