Gotta go with Hendrix. As mr. Dave stated, he created a style of mixing rhythm and lead guitar into one that was really like nothing before him. Hes the most influential guitarist of all time. He was so ahead of his time. Don't believe me? Listen to a song called "captain coconut", if you can find it.
Other than that, I'd have to say Duane Allman. Him and the Allman Brothers had a brilliant jazzy style with a lot of depth that was unlike most blues-rock bands of the time. That and he really set the bar for slide guitar playing with his innovative use the slide.
BB King: The man practically invented blues guitar as we know it. He followed in the footsteps of t-bone walker, but t-bone was much more jazzy. Listen to nearly ever post-BB blues guitarist and tell me you can't hear some BB licks and influence.
Chet Atkins: it seems to be a popular belief these days that a shredding solo is what defines good guitar playing, i get annoyed by it. If that's what you think, then maybe you've never seen this man play - or you just don't understand what he's doing. His fingerstyle work is a sight to see. Much harder than going up and down a scale with speed.
Robert Johnson: Not much needs to be said. One of the most influential guitarists,hands down. He inspired all the blues and rock greats. He had a very complex fingerstyle, as well. His cross-tempos were no easy task.
Django Reinhardt: A jazz guitar master. First time I saw one his videos, I was amazed. Then I found out he only had two fretting fingers - unbelievable. I can't imagine what he coulda done with 5. Saw a debate about the first shredder ever and was mentioned a lot. I'd have to agree.
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