The Greatest Guitarists Of All Time, Ranked

33. Curtis Mayfield

Often singing politically driven songs about civil rights, Mayfield was one of the most influential singers, songwriters and guitarists in soul music. A self-taught guitarist, Mayfield took pride in the fact that his style was not easily imitable. While the messages of his songs may have been powerful, Mayfield nevertheless delivered them with fluid melodies and gentle, soulful vocal performances.

During his time as a member of vocal group The Impressions, Mayfield wrote the politically charged “People Get Ready”, a song that Rolling Stone considers to be one of the most influential of all time. In the 1970s, Mayfield embarked on a solo career, where the full extent of his talent on the guitar was showcased. His contributions to music resulted in him being a double inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, a Grammy Legend Award winner in 1994, and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award winner in 1995.