In the world of music, legends often have their own idols. And when it comes to Geddy Lee, the iconic bassist of Rush, his choice of the ultimate guitarist might surprise you. But here's the twist: it's not who you'd expect!
Geddy Lee, known for his masterful bass skills, has always been vocal about his love for various musical genres. Despite being a bass virtuoso, he didn't start out with a passion for the low end. In his own words, he became a bass player by default, voted into the role. It's a humble beginning for a musician who would later become a legend in his own right.
Lee's musical taste is as diverse as his talent. He admires classic rock icons like Cream and Led Zeppelin, but also appreciates modern innovators such as Björk and Radiohead. However, when it comes to his favorite guitarist, he doesn't pick the obvious choices.
In a 2020 interview with Rolling Stone, Lee revealed his favorite band during his formative years as a musician: Cream. This English psychedelic trio, consisting of Jack Bruce, Eric Clapton, and Ginger Baker, left an indelible mark on Lee's musical journey. He even admitted to emulating Cream's style in the early days of Rush, highlighting the influence of Jack Bruce's bass playing on his own style.
But here's where it gets controversial. Despite his admiration for Cream, Lee doesn't consider Eric Clapton the best guitarist of all time. Instead, he reserves that title for Jeff Beck, Clapton's friend and successor in The Yardbirds.
In a 2009 interview with Guitar World, Lee named Beck's cover of 'I Ain't Superstitious' as a track that shaped Rush's sound. He praised Beck's unique style, his ability to pioneer new techniques, and his incredible control over the guitar. Lee's admiration for Beck is a testament to the guitarist's impact on the music world.
Lee also highlighted 'Over Under Sideways Down' by The Yardbirds, a song that showcases Beck's innovative guitar lines. He praised Beck's ability to blend Eastern quarter-tone styles with Western pop, creating something entirely new. This blend of genres and styles became a platform for experimentation, influencing guitarists to find their voice through music.
So, was there ever a better guitar sound than Jeff Beck's? Geddy Lee certainly thinks so. But what do you think? Is it a controversial opinion, or does Beck truly deserve the title of the greatest guitarist? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a musical debate!
