These five impressive hard guitar songs covers are not for the faint of heart. They feature some of the best guitarists ever. These interpretations of these famous songs are the cream of the crop.
They are also quite inspirational for any musician wanting to achieve great proficiency on the instrument. And yes, if you practice hard and for many years, perhaps you can also develop monster chops. Here are five impressive hard guitar songs covers.
Manha de Carnval – Al Di Meola, John McLaughlin, Paco De Lucía
This version of the classic standard Manha de Carnaval features an absolute display of virtuosity by Al Di Meola and Paco de Lucía. It is one of the tracks from the seminal live album Friday Night in San Francisco. Flamenco legend Paco De Lucia and fusion powerhouse Al Di Meola shred like there’s no tomorrow here. Check out the entire album as it also features jazz virtuoso John McLaughlin. Three of the greatest guitarists to ever live all in top shape in this guitar trio recording. A must listen for any guitar player.
Verano Porteño – Ana Vidovic
Croatian prodigy Ana Vidovic shines in this gorgeous rendition of “Verano Porteño”. Vidovic captures the essence of Astor Piazzolas’ Tango beautifully. This presentation also features two more of Piazzolas’ tangos: “Milonga del Angel” and “La Muerte del Angel”. Vidovic is one of the top classical guitarists in the world, and this concert is further proof of her virtuosity. An impressive display of fingerstyle control and a masterclass in expression and technique.
Little Wing – Stevie Ray Vaughan
Little Wing is not only a hard song, but an iconic one. Jimi Hendrix made this song famous, and a staple in blue and rock guitar repertoire. In other words, if you play this, prepare to be trashed by other guitar players. Stevie Ray Vaughan was so good, that he was able to make us associate this classic song with him. That’s right. His playing on this song is incredibly unique and showcases all that he was capable of. A fiercely incredible performance of a very hard guitar song by one of the best to ever pick up a guitar.
Man in the Mirror -Tuck Andress
How do you take one of the best fully-produced pop songs ever and arrange it for solo guitar? That is exactly what Tuck Andress does here. Michael Jackson made “Made in the Mirror” a pop masterpiece, beloved around the world. Tuck Andreas’ version is just stunning. It is a masterclass of arranging and fingerstyle technique. You don’t miss the drums, bass, synths, and the rest of the instruments here. Andreas’ arrangement is so good that it has become a standard among guitarists.
Misty – Joe Pass
This is one of the best known jazz standards played masterfully by Joe Pass. “Misty” is not a particularly easy song to play. However, jazz guitar master Joe Pass makes it look quite easy. And that is what happens when you practice hard for years. Joe Pass was known for his solo playing and incredible musicianship. “Misty” is another great example of his outstanding body of work.
All of the players above are quite incredible. Each of them has develop a unique sound, voice and style through years of hard work. They exemplify the beauty and depth of expression that can be reached. These five impressive hard guitar songs covers are exactly what the tittle suggest: impressive and hard. Leave us a comment with some other incredible covers of hard guitar songs and get back to practicing.
