There's a difference between being a guitar player and someone whose guitar has become an extension of their body. Two examples immediately come to mind.
John Frusciante
This dude makes his guitar SCREAM. It's incredible. I think one of the best examples of a typical Frusciante solo is the one at the end of "Wet Sand."
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Wet Sand
HO-LY FUCK. I'm convinced it's impossible not to air guitar to this part. The way John makes those guitar strings vibrate is incredible. It's intense, it's powerful, it's emotional, and honestly, it's a bit sexual.
Jimi Hendrix
I feel like this is obvious and doesn't need any explanation. Plus, I feel like this live recording of Hey Joe says it all.
I'm debating whether or not I'd include Dan Auerbach from The Black Keys on this list. Has he already stood the test of time? I mean, the first Black Keys album came out 14 years ago and they are still going strong. Some excellent blues inspired songs in that time span. And I think with Turn Blue, he may have finally put himself on this list. I'd link a YouTube video, but it seems the record companies have made sure to take those down. So instead, just go out and buy this album. Trust me, it's worth it.
So, who would you also include on this list? What song(s) make you realize that this person is more than just a guitar player?