Let’s talk about UK metal guitarists. Seriously, these guys have been crushing it for decades. The British metal scene has churned out some absolute legends – we’re talking about the folks who invented the genre, right up to the modern shredders who keep pushing things forward.
We’ve put together a list of the 15 best UK metal guitarists. It’s a mix of old-school heroes and newer faces, all ranked from 15 down to number 1. Each of these players has made their mark in a big way.
Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree)
While not exclusively a metal guitarist, Steven Wilson’s impact on the progressive side of metal is undeniable. His ability to blend intricate melodies with heavy riffs has inspired many modern metal bands to explore more complex compositions.
Guthrie Govan
Guthrie Govan is renowned for his exceptional technical skills and versatility across genres. His work has pushed the limits of guitar playing, influencing a new generation of metal and progressive rock guitarists to strive for higher levels of mastery.
Janick Gers (Iron Maiden)
Joining Iron Maiden in 1990, Janick Gers brought renewed energy and flair to the band’s guitar work. His aggressive playing style and vibrant stage presence have contributed significantly to Iron Maiden’s enduring legacy.
Bernie Marsden (Whitesnake)
Bernie Marsden’s bluesy guitar playing was instrumental in shaping Whitesnake’s early sound. His ability to fuse blues with hard rock bridged the gap between traditional rock and the emerging metal scene of the late ’70s and early ’80s.
Mick Box (Uriah Heep)
As the guitarist for Uriah Heep, Mick Box helped lay the groundwork for heavy metal guitar playing. His innovative use of wah pedals and heavy riffs influenced many guitarists who would go on to define the metal genre.
Graham Oliver (Saxon)
Graham Oliver’s riffs and solos with Saxon were pivotal in defining the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) sound. His straightforward yet powerful playing influenced the development of thrash metal and inspired countless guitarists.
Phil Campbell (Motörhead)
Phil Campbell’s tenure with Motörhead saw the blending of punk energy with metal’s heaviness, contributing to the development of speed metal. His relentless playing style has left a lasting mark on the genre.
Scott Gorham (Thin Lizzy)
Scott Gorham was crucial in developing Thin Lizzy’s signature twin-guitar harmonies. His melodic solos and harmonized leads have inspired numerous bands and helped shape the sound of modern metal.
John Sykes (Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake)
John Sykes brought a new level of technical proficiency and emotion to metal guitar playing. His work on Whitesnake’s 1987 self-titled album showcased his ability to blend soulful melodies with shredding techniques, influencing many guitarists in the ’80s and beyond.
Brian Tatler (Diamond Head)
Brian Tatler’s work with Diamond Head was instrumental in shaping the early thrash metal sound. Bands like Metallica have cited his riffs as a major influence, covering songs like “Am I Evil?” and introducing his music to a global audience.
K.K. Downing and Glenn Tipton (Judas Priest)
This iconic duo from Judas Priest set the standard for twin-guitar harmonies and solos in metal. Their aggressive style and groundbreaking techniques have influenced countless metal bands, solidifying their place in metal history.
Dave Murray and Adrian Smith (Iron Maiden)
Dave Murray and Adrian Smith’s dual-lead guitar work is a cornerstone of Iron Maiden’s sound. Their seamless harmonies, intricate solos, and melodic riffs have inspired generations of metal guitarists worldwide.
“Fast” Eddie Clarke (Motörhead)
“Fast” Eddie Clarke’s raw and fast-paced playing with Motörhead helped lay the foundation for speed metal and thrash. His aggressive riffs pushed the boundaries of heavy music, influencing a myriad of guitarists in these subgenres.
Ritchie Blackmore (Deep Purple, Rainbow)
Ritchie Blackmore fused classical music influences with hard rock, creating a new blueprint for metal guitar playing. His work with Deep Purple and Rainbow showcased his exceptional skill and helped set new standards for guitarists worldwide.
Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath)
The Godfather of Heavy Metal Guitar
At the top of our list is Tony Iommi, widely regarded as the godfather of heavy metal guitar. As the lead guitarist and primary composer for Black Sabbath, Iommi pioneered the dark, heavy riffs that became the foundation of the metal genre. His innovative use of downtuned power chords and unique playing style have influenced virtually every metal guitarist who followed.
Artists: Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, Diamond Head, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Motorhead, Phil Campbell and The Bastard Sons, Saxon