The most epic guitar solos in heavy metal history

The sound of heavy metal is synonymous with powerful guitar riffs and shredding solos. Throughout its history, the genre has produced many iconic guitarists, each with their unique style and technique. In this article, we'll be taking a look at some of the most epic guitar solos in heavy metal history.

1. Eddie Van Halen - "Eruption" (Van Halen)

No list of epic guitar solos is complete without mention of Eddie Van Halen's "Eruption." The instrumental track from Van Halen's debut album changed the game and set the standard for all future guitarists. Eddie's lightning-fast fingers and use of tapping and legato techniques inspired a generation of shredders.

2. Randy Rhoads - "Crazy Train" (Ozzy Osbourne)

Randy Rhoads' guitar solo on "Crazy Train" is a perfect example of his unique blend of classical and metal influences. The solo starts with a memorable harmonic lick and builds to a frenzy of fast runs and arpeggios. Randy's untimely death in 1982 left the heavy metal world mourning the loss of a true guitar hero.

3. Kirk Hammett - "Master of Puppets" (Metallica)

The lead single and title track from Metallica's third album, "Master of Puppets," features one of Kirk Hammett's most memorable solos. The solo starts with a slow, melodic section before building to a blistering fast series of runs and bends. The solo perfectly complements the song's heavy, thrashy riff.

4. Dimebag Darrell - "Floods" (Pantera)

Dimebag Darrell's solo on "Floods" is a masterpiece of emotion and technique. The solo starts with a delicate, atmospheric section before building to a shredding frenzy. The use of harmonics and vibrato adds depth and feeling to the solo, making it one of the most epic in heavy metal history.

5. Jimi Hendrix - "All Along the Watchtower" (Jimi Hendrix Experience)

While not a heavy metal song per se, Jimi Hendrix's solo on "All Along the Watchtower" is a perfect example of his innovative and groundbreaking guitar playing. The solo is full of Hendrix's signature techniques, such as feedback and wah-wah, and perfectly complements Bob Dylan's lyrics.

6. Zakk Wylde - "No More Tears" (Ozzy Osbourne)

Zakk Wylde's solo on "No More Tears" is a true tour-de-force of shredding. The solo starts with a slow, melodic section before building to a series of blistering fast runs and arpeggios. Zakk's unique style and use of pinch harmonics make this solo a standout in heavy metal history.

7. Dave Mustaine - "Holy Wars" (Megadeth)

Dave Mustaine's solo on "Holy Wars" is a perfect example of his lightning-fast playing style. The solo starts with a memorable harmonic lick before building to a series of fast runs and bends. Dave's use of alternate picking and sweep picking techniques make this solo a true masterpiece.

8. Slash - "Sweet Child O' Mine" (Guns N' Roses)

Slash's solo on "Sweet Child O' Mine" is one of the most recognizable guitar solos of all time. The solo starts with a memorable melodic section before building to a series of fast runs and arpeggios. Slash's use of legato and vibrato techniques make this solo a classic.

9. Tony Iommi - "War Pigs" (Black Sabbath)

Tony Iommi's solo on "War Pigs" is one of the most iconic in heavy metal history. The solo starts with a slow, bluesy section before building to a series of heavy, distorted runs and bends. Tony's use of the pentatonic scale and vibrato techniques make this solo a true classic.

10. Brian May - "Bohemian Rhapsody" (Queen)

While not a heavy metal song per se, Brian May's guitar solo on "Bohemian Rhapsody" is a true work of art. The solo starts with a delicate, melodic section before building to a series of fast runs and arpeggios. Brian's use of harmonies and multi-tracking make this solo a standout in the history of rock music.

In conclusion, heavy metal has produced some of the most epic guitar solos in music history. From Eddie Van Halen's groundbreaking tapping techniques to Randy Rhoads' unique blend of classical and metal, these solos have inspired generations of guitarists. While each solo is unique, they all share a common thread of innovation, technique, and emotion.