George Harrison’s Exclusive List Of 3 Best Guitarists

George Harrison may not always be the first name that comes up when discussing legendary guitarists, but his skills were undeniable. While he’s often celebrated for his songwriting and his role in The Beatles, his fans know just how talented he was with a guitar. Given his deep appreciation for music, it’s worth taking a look at the guitarists he admired the most.

Carl Perkins – A Major Influence

Harrison had immense respect for Carl Perkins, one of the pioneers of rockabilly. At Perkins’ funeral, Harrison reportedly told his son, “If it hadn’t have been for your daddy, I never would have picked up a guitar.” That says it all.

The Beatles, like many British musicians of the time, drew heavy inspiration from American rock and roll. But for Harrison, Perkins held a special place. His twangy, rhythmic style influenced many of The Beatles’ early songs, and Harrison’s own playing often carried echoes of Perkins’ signature sound.

Eric Clapton – A Complicated Friendship

Harrison and Eric Clapton had a lot of respect for each other, even after they got into some personal problems. Harrison asked Clapton to play “While My Guitar Gently Weeps,” which shows how much he valued Clapton’s skills.

Clapton is known as one of the best guitarists of all time because of his blues-influenced style and technical mastery. It’s not a surprise that he would be on Harrison’s list; most great players would probably put Clapton on theirs too.

Chuck Berry – A Rock and Roll Pioneer

Chuck Berry inspired the Beatles in many ways. What would become the British Invasion was influenced by his fast-paced rock and roll with blues elements. Berry’s sound and stage presence had a big impact on Harrison and the rest of the band.

Berry’s fast-paced guitar licks and story-like lines had a big impact on The Beatles’ early music. Berry was a key member of the Fab Four. Without him, rock history generally would have been very different.