This Might Just Be the Greatest Recorded Piece of Guitar in the World—Ever: Queen’s Brian May on Jeff Beck and the Guitar Tone That Changed His Life
Few guitarists in history have commanded the level of reverence that Jeff Beck did. From his early days with The Yardbirds to his groundbreaking solo career, Beck’s innovative approach to the instrument left an indelible mark on rock music. Among his many admirers is Queen’s legendary guitarist, Brian May, who once described a particular Jeff Beck recording as “the greatest recorded piece of guitar in the world. Ever.”
Brian May, known for his soaring solos and intricate harmonies, has often cited Jeff Beck as one of his greatest influences. However, one moment in particular stood out to him—a piece of guitar work so profound that it changed the way he thought about the instrument forever.
“That sound, that feel—nobody else had it,” May said in an interview. “It was like the guitar was an extension of his soul. He made it sing, cry, whisper, and roar—all in a way that felt completely effortless.”
While May didn’t specify the exact track that left him in awe, many fans speculate that it could be Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers from Beck’s 1975 album Blow by Blow. The song, a slow-burning instrumental masterpiece written by Stevie Wonder, showcases Beck’s ability to bend notes with liquid smoothness and inject pure emotion into every phrase.
Jeff Beck was never one to rely on flashy effects or over-the-top speed. Instead, he mastered the subtle nuances of touch, dynamics, and phrasing—using the volume knob, whammy bar, and finger vibrato like no other. His tone was unmistakable: raw, expressive, and almost vocal in its delivery.
For Brian May, who built his signature sound with his homemade “Red Special” guitar and layered harmonies, Beck’s approach was a revelation. “It wasn’t just about technique—it was about emotion,” May explained. “He could say more with a single note than most players could with a hundred.”
Both Brian May and Jeff Beck belong to an elite class of guitarists who redefined what rock music could be. While May’s style leans heavily on orchestration and melodic storytelling, Beck’s playing was more spontaneous and jazz-infused—always unpredictable, always magical.
May’s praise for Beck is a testament to how deeply one musician can inspire another. When a guitarist of Brian May’s caliber calls a piece of music “the greatest recorded piece of guitar in the world,” it’s worth listening closely.
Jeff Beck may be gone, but his music—and the impact he had on legends like Brian May—ensures that his genius will resonate for generations to come.
