Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix redefined the electric guitar’s possibilities, a feat no guitarist before or since has matched. His 1967 album *Are You Experienced* sold over 4 million copies, introducing explosive feedback, controlled distortion, and revolutionary chord work that still sounds futuristic. Hendrix’s phrasing outpaced #2 Eric Clapton in speed and unpredictability, while his stage presence—including setting his guitar on fire—created a legend beyond mere technique. He pushed beyond the blues vocabulary of #4 Chuck Berry, fusing rock, funk, and jazz into a singular voice. This combination of raw creativity and technical dominance makes him the undisputed top pick.