Rolling Stone, the renowned international music magazine, recently unveiled its list of the 250 greatest guitarists of all time, and it is not just a roll call of rock legends.
The list celebrates the global impact of guitar virtuosos, with three Jamaican maestros, Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, Ernie Ranglin, and Earl “Chinna” Smith, who have left an indelible mark on the world of music.
Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore: Reggae’s Guitar Maestro (#91)
Stephen ‘Cat’ Coore, a foundational member of the iconic reggae band Third World, claims the 91st spot on Rolling Stone’s list.
The magazine describes his artistry as a game-changer for reggae guitar. Coore’s searing solos have not only scaled new heights but also drawn comparisons to rock guitar legends.
His lead guitar prowess, at times, echoes the virtuosity of none other than Carlos Santana. For a taste of his genius, listeners are urged to check out his string work on Third World’s 1982 hit, “Try Jah Love.”
Ernie Ranglin: The Ska Pioneer (#179)
Ernie Ranglin, a pivotal figure in the Jamaican music scene, secures the 179th position on Rolling Stone’s illustrious list.
The magazine highlights Ranglin’s indispensable role in the evolution of reggae, noting that without him, reggae might never have been. Ranglin’s legacy traces back to the early 1960s when he pioneered the rhythm-guitar pattern of playing on the upbeat, laying the foundation for rocksteady and reggae.
His guitar work on Millie Small’s “My Boy Lollipop” and the iconic riff on Toots and the Maytals’ “54-46 Was My Number” underscore his profound influence.
Earl “Chinna” Smith: The Reggae Session Legend (#181)
Earl “Chinna” Smith, a true luminary of the classic reggae era, takes the 181st spot on Rolling Stone’s list.
Smith’s impressive discography includes collaborations with reggae titans like Bob Marley, Dennis Brown, and Bunny Wailer, to name a few.
As a member of Bunny Lee’s Aggrovators and later the Soul Syndicate, Smith’s tight rhythms and inventive riffs set the stage for a generation of Jamaican guitarists.
His knack for crafting memorable guitar intros, as heard in Marley’s “Rat Race” and Dennis Brown’s “Cassandra,” further cements his legendary status.
A Caribbean touch
Beyond Jamaica, the Caribbean Diaspora boasts other notable guitarists who have made their mark.
Edilio Paredes, hailing from the Dominican Republic, ranks 244th on the list.
Meanwhile, Trinidadian Lynn Taitt, positioned at 204, left an indelible impact on Jamaica’s rocksteady sound, with his guitar work gracing early classics like Hopeton Lewis’ “Take It Easy” and Derrick Morgan’s “Tougher Than Tough.”
Rolling Stone’s top three guitar greats
While Coore, Ranglin, and Smith bask in well-deserved recognition, Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest guitarists is crowned by Jimi Hendrix, with Chuck Berry and Jimmy Page following closely behind.
These legendary names serve as a testament to the enduring power of the guitar in shaping the musical landscape.
Rolling Stone’s celebration of these Caribbean guitar legends underscores the global reach of their artistry and the enduring influence of Caribbean music on the world stage.
