The world of guitar playing is vast and varied, populated by artists who approach the instrument with unique philosophies and techniques. While some guitarists prioritize songwriting and subtle innovation, others, like Yngwie Malmsteen, champion virtuosity and technical prowess. This exploration delves into the realm of Yngwie Malmsteen, a guitar player who has become synonymous with neoclassical shred, standing in contrast to artists who, like Johnny Marr, as Guitar Player noted in a 1990 article, actively avoided the traditional “guitar hero” archetype.
In that Guitar Player interview, Johnny Marr, known for his work with The Smiths and numerous other collaborations, expressed a clear preference for songcraft over showmanship. He valued melody, lyrics, and the overall song, famously stating, “I’ve always believed that any instrumentalist is basically just an accompanist to the singer and the words.” Marr even voiced a strong opinion against guitarists focused solely on speed and technical display, mentioning Yngwie Malmsteen directly: “I think people like Yngwie Malmsteen should be forgotten as soon as possible, I really do.” This statement, while direct, highlights a critical divergence in guitar playing philosophies.
Johnny Marr on the cover of Guitar Player, January 1990
Marr’s perspective, rooted in a post-punk and pop sensibility, emphasized serving the song and prioritizing emotional connection over technical fireworks. His influences, ranging from Motown to the early Rolling Stones, informed a style characterized by intricate, layered guitar textures and melodic sensibility, even while using effects and technology. He admired players like Keith Richards and Nils Lofgren for their melodic soloing and commitment to the song.
However, the guitar world is broad enough to encompass and celebrate contrasting approaches. Yngwie Malmsteen, often cited in discussions about guitar virtuosity, embodies a different kind of guitar hero – one who embraces technical mastery and pushes the boundaries of instrumental performance. Malmsteen emerged in the 1980s, a decade that saw the rise of shred guitar, and quickly became a leading figure in neoclassical metal.
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While Marr and guitarists of his ilk might find the “guitar hero” concept outdated, Yngwie Malmsteen and his followers redefined it for a new generation. Malmsteen’s style is characterized by:
- Neoclassical Shredding: Drawing heavily from classical music, Malmsteen incorporates scales, arpeggios, and harmonic concepts from composers like Bach, Paganini, and Mozart into his playing. This fusion creates a dramatic and technically demanding style.
- Technical Virtuosity: Speed, precision, and a vast array of techniques are hallmarks of Malmsteen’s playing. He is renowned for his incredibly fast alternate picking, sweep picking arpeggios, legato runs, and tapping.
- Emphasis on Soloing: Unlike Marr’s preference for concise guitar parts, Malmsteen’s music often features extended, elaborate guitar solos that are the centerpiece of his compositions. These solos are vehicles for showcasing his technical abilities and improvisational skills within the neoclassical framework.
- Tone and Equipment: Malmsteen’s signature sound is often associated with scalloped fretboard Stratocaster guitars, high-gain amplification, and effects that enhance sustain and articulation.
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The difference between Marr and Yngwie Malmsteen is not about one being “better” than the other, but rather about distinct artistic goals and priorities. Marr aimed to create a band sound, serving the vocalist and the song’s emotional core. His guitar work was integral to the overall texture and atmosphere of The Smiths and his subsequent projects. In contrast, Yngwie Malmsteen often places the guitar, and specifically his virtuosity on the instrument, at the forefront. His music is often instrumental or features vocals that complement, rather than overshadow, the guitar work.
As Marr himself acknowledged, there is respect to be given to disciplined players who truly master their craft. While he might not personally appreciate the style of Yngwie Malmsteen, the technical dedication and mastery required to achieve such proficiency are undeniable. For many guitar players, Yngwie Malmsteen represents the pinnacle of technical achievement, inspiring countless musicians to push their own boundaries and explore the limits of the instrument.
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Ultimately, the diverse landscape of guitar playing benefits from both approaches. Guitarists like Johnny Marr demonstrate the power of subtlety, texture, and song-centric playing, while figures like Yngwie Malmsteen showcase the breathtaking potential of virtuosity and technical command. Both contribute to the rich tapestry of guitar music, appealing to different listeners and inspiring different paths of musical expression. Whether one prefers the melodic intricacies of Marr or the neoclassical fireworks of Yngwie Malmsteen, the world of guitar playing offers something for everyone.
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