What are the most remarkable guitar pieces and solos in music history?

The magic of a song often comes from the perfect symbiosis between musicians. Whether it happens on stage or in the recording studio, this meeting has allowed the birth of legendary pieces. And it is the case for the guitar solos among others, which give a song power and exceptional scale. Discover the solos that have simply marked the history of music, especially of rock.

Why does the solo appeal so much?

Besides the fact that the solo is a unique and privileged moment of creative expression for the musician, it also allows him to show his technical prowess and to bring to a piece all the appreciated intensity. Whether it is totally improvised or worked on, the solo requires a great deal of mastery of the instrument. So here is a small selection of solos that have left their mark on the history of music.

Van Halen - Eruption

Eruption is likely the most famous song of the American band Van Halen and also one of the most technically difficult solos in the history of hard rock.

It is said that Eddie Van Halen turned his back to the audience so that no one could copy his gestures. A virtuoso guitarist, he was undeniably the one who pushed many young people to try the guitar.

Led Zeppelin - Stairway to Heaven

Another iconic piece and solo, it quickly found its fans worldwide. Here it is not a question of technicality but of emotional sensitivity. That is why this piece is often in the selection of the easiest solos to play on the guitar.Although easy technically, much more difficult to be able to express emotion. And yet it is much more complex to play than it seems. Virtuoso guitarist Jimmy Page shows with this piece that all does not rest necessarily on the technique but well on the feelings.Jimi Hendrix- Voodoo ChildWhen it is a question of proposing a selection of solos, it is difficult not to quote Jimi Hendrix and this completely wondrous piece, Voodoo Child. Considered as the greatest guitarist in the world, he had no notion of music theory; he forged his own style with his own way to learn guitar. This genius of the guitar delivered numerous solos which became singularly legendary.

Eric Clapton - I Shot the Sheriff

This song written and composed by Bob Marley became a worldwide hit when Eric Clapton covered it. This song shows what a great guitarist he is and what a master of his instrument he is.

The Eagles - Hotel California

A hit all over the world, it is difficult to ignore Hotel California unless you live on another planet. This song, which has won two gold records and a platinum record, is simply one of the most unforgettable songs in the history of music. Unforgettable, this solo is undeniably one of the most known, one of the most heard, one of the most sold. Hotel California embodies a whole era and its lucidity and even heavenly guitar playing almost makes you forget the gravity of the lyrics.

Santana - Europa

This instrumental guitar piece is surely the most famous in the world with its unforgettable solo. Unique and recognizable, Europa offers the full extent of the musical virtuosity of its guitarist,  Carlos Santana.

Deep Purple - Child in Time

How can we not talk about this wild solo that has also become engraved in the history of rock. In addition to the genius of guitarist Blackmore, this song is also famous for presenting the full vocal range of its singer Ian Gillan.

Prince - Purple Rain

Another legendary guitarist, Prince shows with this song all his power of play by different phases of improvisation. Very well structured, this song has become unparalleled in the artist's abundant repertoire.