Terry Kath: Ranking Among the Greatest Rock Guitarists
Ranking Terry Kath among the greatest rock guitarists is subjective and can vary depending on personal taste and criteria for greatness. However, his incredible skill, innovative playing style, and contributions to Chicago during the late 1960s and 1970s often earn him a significant place in any discussion of rock guitar greatness. Kath's guitar work, particularly on songs like “Saturday Afternoon” and “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?”, showcases his versatility and unique approach to music.
A High Praise from Jimi Hendrix
In a general context, Terry Kath might not always appear on mainstream lists of the best rock guitarists. However, he has received high praise from some of the most celebrated musicians of all time. One such example is Jimi Hendrix, who was so mesmerized by Kath's guitar playing that he claimed he thought the Chicago guitarist played six strings better than he did. Hendrix even went so far as to nickname Kath the "best guitarist in the universe." This statement alone is enough to secure a high ranking for Kath among any list of rock guitar legends.
Personal experiences with Kath's music can also provide strong evidence of his talent. I remember seeing Chicago perform in their early days, and Terry Kath was a wizard on his funky-looking guitar. The complexity and precision of his playing were unparalleled, fitting seamlessly into intricate horn and chord arrangements. His ability to sing, play lead, and rhythm at the same time set him apart, making it difficult to imagine Chicago without the contributions of Terry Kath.
Memories and Legacy
My recollections of seeing Terry Kath live are still vivid. The first time I witnessed his performance was at the Fillmore West in San Francisco in 1969. He played with a wizardry that left me stunned. The next year in 1970, despite still delivering a great performance, he seemed more subdued. However, his technical proficiency and innovations with chords were truly remarkable. The loss of his unique guitar was a turn of events that only his daughter could unravel, providing a heartwarming story of a piece of music history reuniting with its owner.
Personal Rankings and Musical Genius
When it comes to personal rankings, I place Terry Kath in the top ten of all-time rock guitarists. His speed, clean sound, and musical genius are attributes that set him apart. If the Chicago Transit Authority hadn't relied on their horn section, Terry Kath's contributions would have likely received more recognition during the 1970s. He was not just a guitar virtuoso but also an integral part of the band's sound, alongside bassist Geddy Lee, who I often tease as the "big headed" bass player. The band as a whole was filled with talented musicians, but Kath's unique ability to harmonize lead and rhythm guitar with vocals and horns was unparalleled.
While Hendrix is often ranked as the greatest rock guitarist, Terry Kath's musicianship is on par and, in some ways, exceeds that of Hendrix. Other notable guitarists like Jimmy Page, Eric Clapton, and Larry LaLonde (Frank Zappa) are also highly regarded, but Kath's ability to seamlessly blend singing, lead, and rhythm guitar makes him a standout. His posthumous influence on music is undeniable, and his legacy continues to inspire guitarists and music lovers around the world.
Conclusion
While the ranking of Terry Kath among the greatest rock guitarists may vary widely, there is no dispute about his incredible talent and contributions to the music world. His innovative playing style, technical skill, and unique approach to the guitar make him a true musical genius. While some may rank him as the highest, others may place him in the top tier, but there is no denying that Terry Kath deserves a permanent place among the greatest rock guitar legends.