Randy Rhoads
 

Almost everybody in the 80s was trying to mix classical with guitar, and 99% of the time it was a complete failure. Either

A) it was too light, and fluffly, and clean so it barely appealed convincing of the instrument.

or

B) The guitarist didn't have the skill to really pull it off, and it came off wrong.

Randy Rhoads was the closest thing to breaking both molds. His guitar work was heavy, and convincing. Yet, his skill was legit virtuoso. Someone may say he was not as technically achieved as somebody like Yngwie Malmsteen. But, I believe he's had an ear for songwriting consistency, and an infinitely superior tone.

Honestly, Randy Rhoads, in my eyes, is a well deserved legend. As he's achieved something that everyone was trying at the time, and very few actually succeeded to do.

I agree Ska, he was defiantly one of the best rock guitarist during the early 80s. But in my own personal opinion, Eddie Van Halen was one of the guitarist during that era, that did it to almost perfection.

My personal favorite era of mixing classical with rock would have to be the 70s. With artist like Steve Howe (Yes) and Alex Lifeson for Rush, just to mention a few.

I admit the only thing I heard Randy on was Ozzy's stuff, but he blew me away on that. It would have been interesting to see where his career would be today if he didn't pass away so young.

Randy Rhoads had a major influence on me as a Guitar player. Would have loved to see what he could have done

Randy ruled!

I believe he was probably the best guitarist that Ozzy has ever played with. (better then Iommi and Wylde)