Is shred guitar still cool | MusicStreet

Shred guitar, with its lightning-fast solos and virtuosic techniques, has been a staple of rock and metal music for decades. But is it still cool? Are there any new influential shred guitarists making waves in the music industry? 

The Evolution of Shred Guitar

Shred guitar emerged in the 1980s, popularized by guitarists like Eddie Van Halen, Yngwie Malmsteen, Satriani, Steve Vai. Jason Becker, Paul Gilbert.. the list goes on! These guitar heroes pushed the boundaries of technical proficiency, dazzling audiences with their lightning-fast fingers and mind-bending solos.

Over the years, shred guitar has evolved and incorporated various influences from different genres. It has become a melting pot of styles, combining elements of rock, metal, and jazz, with influential players such as Frank Gambale and Scott Henderson. This evolution has kept shred guitar fresh and exciting, ensuring its continued relevance in the music scene.

Back in the 90's some of my favourite players were Reb Beach, Richie Kotzen, Blues Saraceno, John Petrucci, Nuno Bettencourt, Paul Gilbert, Steve Lukather.. all worth checking out if you're not sure who they are.

Is Shred Guitar Still Cool?

Absolutely! Shred guitar continues to captivate audiences around the world. While it may not dominate the mainstream charts, it has a dedicated fan base that appreciates the skill and artistry behind it. Shred guitar represents the pinnacle of technical proficiency on the instrument, and its popularity remains strong within the rock and metal community.

Moreover, shred guitar has influenced countless guitarists across different genres. Even if they don't play shred exclusively, many guitarists incorporate elements of shred into their playing, adding flair and excitement to their music.

The New Influential Shred Guitarists

While the pioneers of shred guitar still hold a special place in our hearts, there are several new influential shred guitarists who are pushing the boundaries of the genre and captivating audiences with their incredible skills.

One such guitarist is Tosin Abasi, known for his work with the progressive metal band Animals as Leaders. Abasi's unique blend of technicality, melody, and rhythm has earned him a reputation as one of the most innovative guitarists of our time.

Another rising star in the shred guitar world is Nita Strauss. As the touring guitarist for Alice Cooper, Strauss has proven herself as a force to be reckoned with. Her blistering solos and stage presence have garnered her a loyal following and established her as one of the top female shred guitarists.

Other notable shred guitarists include Plini, Max Ostro, Mateus Asato, and Matteo Mancuso, are constantly pushing the boundaries of what is possible on the guitar each bringing their own unique style.

Conclusion

Shred guitar is still cool, and it continues to inspire and captivate guitarists and music enthusiasts alike. With its evolution and the emergence of new influential shred guitarists, the genre remains vibrant and exciting. So, if you're a fan of jaw-dropping solos and mind-bending techniques, dive into the world of shred guitar and discover the incredible talent that exists today! Explores the current state of shred guitar, a style often associated with electric guitar playing.

Latest Blogs

View all

christmas music guitar chords for beginners

Easy Christmas Music Guitar Chords for Beginners

Holiday gatherings and a guitar go hand in hand - nothing brings people together quite like singing familiar carols around the tree. Most carols sound warm and natural on an acoustic guitar. The good news for beginners is that most...

Read more

most Underrated guitars in 2025

The Most Underrated Acoustic Guitars You Should Know About

When you search for acoustic guitars online, most lists shout about the “best” or “top-rated” models. But here’s the thing - those aren’t always the guitars that give you the most value. Some brilliant instruments slip under the radar simply...

Read more

Top 10 best songs to play on an acoustic guitar

Top 10 best songs to play on an acoustic guitar

Learning acoustic guitar is a rewarding journey that combines skill and expression. Choosing the right songs is key to developing techniques like fingerpicking, strumming, and chord changes while staying motivated. This top 10 list features iconic songs that balance challenge...

Read more