Do you think rhythm guitar is underappreciated?

Question:Eddie, Stevie Ray, Page, Townsend, all had great rhythm chops. People tend to overlook that aspect. What do you think

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Eddie, Stevie Ray, Page, Townsend, all had great rhythm chops. People tend to overlook that aspect. What do you think

Yes. Lead guitar always gets the attention. But rhythm is real important. It fills out a song, gives it structure, adds a lot to the background. If it weren't there, recorded or performed songs would sound a lot more flat and empty.

It's really wonderful when a single guitarist can do both, switching back and forth. Such as Neal Schon or Alex Lifeson. Pay close attention to live recordings, you'll see how they go back and forth between lead and rhythm.

Absolutely. The people you mentioned however, are known for their lead guitars, and to that list I would add Lindsey Buckingham of Fleetwood Mac fame. If you're talking JUST rhythm guitar, I think the best (known) example would be John Lennon. The Beatles ABSOLUTELY exemplified the 4-piece combo: Lead; Rhythm, Bass and Drums. It was so easy to figure out their early songs because of this. Later, on his solo albums, Lennon would make the best of rhythm guitar, even as he improved greatly and started adding arpeggios and riffs.

Come to think of it, Johnny Cash oughta be on that list too! (Please, don't anyone mention Elvis. He could dance, but couldn't play guitar worth beans.)

Excellent question! Good topic.

Kabum

i agree with you.
but that shouldn't be the attitude right?everyone should get appreciation for their talent.