Introduction
Marty Friedman is a name that resonates with every guitar enthusiast. Known for his unique approach to guitar playing and his work with Megadeth, Friedman has always been vocal about the talents that inspire him. In the world of internet guitarists, several artists are currently capturing his attention with their creativity and virtuosity. In this article, we delve into the profiles of five such guitarists who are making waves online and catching the eye of this legendary musician.
1. Mateus Asato
Mateus Asato, a Brazilian guitarist, is renowned for his emotive playing style and intricate fingerwork. His ability to blend techniques from various genres such as rock, pop, and jazz has earned him a massive online following. Asato’s soulful solos and complex chord progressions are reminiscent of Friedman’s own innovative approach, which perhaps explains Friedman’s admiration for him.
Background and Influence
Born in Campo Grande, Brazil, Asato started playing the guitar at a young age, drawing inspiration from artists like John Mayer and Andy Timmons. His journey to fame began with Instagram, where his short guitar clips showcased his exceptional talent and garnered millions of views.
Signature Style
Asato’s style is characterized by his use of hybrid picking and intricate fingerstyle techniques. His music often incorporates lush, ambient soundscapes, which he creates using a combination of effects pedals and his unique chord voicings.
Impact on the Guitar Community
Asato’s influence extends beyond his social media presence. He has inspired a new generation of guitarists to explore different genres and incorporate them into their playing. His tutorials and masterclasses are highly sought after, further cementing his status as a modern guitar icon.
2. Sarah Longfield
Sarah Longfield is a multi-instrumentalist known for her progressive metal compositions and innovative use of extended-range guitars. Her technical prowess and experimental approach have captured the attention of guitar enthusiasts worldwide, including Marty Friedman.
Background and Influence
Hailing from Wisconsin, Longfield began her musical journey as a classical pianist before transitioning to the guitar. Her influences range from classical composers to modern metal bands, which is evident in her complex, layered compositions.
Signature Style
Longfield is known for her use of 8-string guitars, which allows her to explore a wider tonal range. Her compositions often feature rapid arpeggios, tapping techniques, and polyrhythmic structures, creating a unique sound that pushes the boundaries of conventional guitar playing.
Impact on the Guitar Community
Longfield has become a leading figure in the progressive metal scene, inspiring countless musicians to experiment with extended-range guitars and complex musical structures. Her work has also contributed to the growing recognition of female guitarists in a traditionally male-dominated genre.
3. Ichika Nito
Ichika Nito, a Japanese guitarist, has taken the internet by storm with his minimalist yet technically intricate playing style. His ability to convey complex emotions through simple melodies has captured the attention of many, including Marty Friedman.
Background and Influence
Nito’s rise to fame began on YouTube, where his short, atmospheric compositions quickly gained popularity. Influenced by jazz and math rock, his music often features unconventional time signatures and intricate fingerstyle techniques.
Signature Style
Nito’s playing is characterized by his use of clean tones and precise fingerpicking. His compositions often feature repetitive motifs that gradually evolve, creating a meditative listening experience.
Impact on the Guitar Community
Nito’s minimalist approach has inspired many guitarists to focus on melody and emotion rather than technical complexity. His success on social media platforms has also demonstrated the power of the internet in shaping modern music careers.
4. Tim Henson
Tim Henson, a guitarist for the band Polyphia, is known for his genre-defying approach to guitar playing. His eclectic style, which blends elements of hip-hop, jazz, and metal, has earned him a dedicated following and the admiration of guitar legends like Marty Friedman.
Background and Influence
Based in Texas, Henson grew up listening to a diverse range of music, which is reflected in his innovative compositions. His band, Polyphia, has become synonymous with the new wave of instrumental progressive rock.
Signature Style
Henson’s style is marked by his use of complex rhythms, tapping techniques, and harmonics. His compositions often feature intricate guitar lines intertwined with electronic elements, creating a sound that is both modern and technically challenging.
Impact on the Guitar Community
Henson’s work with Polyphia has redefined the boundaries of instrumental music, inspiring a new generation of guitarists to experiment with different genres and techniques. His influence can be seen in the growing popularity of genre-blending music within the guitar community.
5. Yvette Young
Yvette Young, the guitarist and frontwoman of the band Covet, is known for her melodic and intricate playing style. Her ability to blend technical proficiency with emotional depth has made her a standout figure in the modern guitar scene, earning the respect of Marty Friedman.
Background and Influence
Young’s musical journey began with classical piano, which later transitioned to the guitar. Her compositions are heavily influenced by her background in classical and jazz music, creating a unique sound that is both technical and expressive.
Signature Style
Young’s style is characterized by her use of tapping, fingerstyle techniques, and complex chord progressions. Her music often features intricate melodies and harmonies, creating a rich, textured sound that resonates with listeners.
Impact on the Guitar Community
Young has become a role model for many aspiring musicians, particularly women, in the guitar community. Her success has helped challenge stereotypes and promote greater inclusivity within the genre.
Conclusion
The internet has given rise to a new generation of guitarists who are redefining the boundaries of the instrument. Artists like Mateus Asato, Sarah Longfield, Ichika Nito, Tim Henson, and Yvette Young are pushing the limits of what is possible on the guitar, captivating audiences worldwide and earning the admiration of guitar legends like Marty Friedman. Their innovative styles and dedication to their craft continue to inspire and influence the future of music.