10 Best Classic Rock Guitarists Of The '80s

There’s a certain irony in putting Mike Campbell on the better half of this list considering the other fantastic guitar players before him. Given Campbell’s minimalist approach, it might seem logical for him to be on the lower half of the guitar spectrum. Even though Campbell doesn’t play too many notes, every note he does play is exactly where it needs to be.

From the start of his career with Tom Petty, Mike has been able to make his presence known with some of the most immediate guitar hooks in classic rock. Though the ‘80s may have marked a transitionary period for the band, Campbell was able to sprinkle his magic across every track, from the 12-string chime on “The Waiting” to the off-kilter swagger of “You Got Lucky.”

That’s not to say Campbell doesn’t have chops though, with later albums like Echo and Mojo showing his ability to lay down some fiery blues licks.

Aside from just being Petty’s right hand man, Campbell has also had a hand in writing massive hits for other artists like Don Henley’s “The Boys of Summer.” In an era that was dominated with cramming as many notes into one line, Campbell is one of the few guitarists who handpicks every note for maximum emotional impact.