Guitar duets have a special place in my heart. Whether it’s the harmony of two guitars coming together or the playful interplay between two virtuosos, there’s something magical about two guitarists sharing a stage. From classic rock to blues and beyond, here are the best guitar duet songs ever.
Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses
Song Year: 1988
One of the biggest hits of the late 1980s, “Sweet Child o’ Mine” was released as a single from Guns N’ Roses’ debut album “Appetite for Destruction” in 1988. The song’s iconic guitar intro and solo, performed by Slash, have become synonymous with the band and the era.
The lyrics, written by lead singer Axl Rose, are a love song to a former girlfriend. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” was a massive commercial success and remains one of Guns N’ Roses’ most recognizable songs.
Hotel California by The Eagles
Song Year: 1976
Released in 1976, “Hotel California” is one of the Eagles’ most well-known tracks. The song features intricate guitar work and is a testament to the band’s musicianship.
Lyrically, the song is a commentary on the dark side of the American Dream, with the hotel symbolizing a place of temptation and excess. It remains one of the most popular guitar duet songs of all time, featuring in numerous classic rock playlists.
Beast And The Harlot by Avenged Sevenfold
Song Year: 2005
Released in 2005, “Beast And The Harlot” is one of the standout tracks from Avenged Sevenfold’s “City of Evil” album. The song’s guitar duet showcases the virtuosity of guitarists Zacky Vengeance and Synyster Gates.
The lyrics tell the story of Babylon and its downfall, with the titular “beast and harlot” serving as allegories for greed and corruption. The high energy and intricate guitar work make “Beast And The Harlot” a standout track in Avenged Sevenfold’s discography.
Dust in the Wind by Kansas
Song Year: 1977
“Dust in the Wind” is a classic guitar duet song by the American progressive rock band Kansas. Released in 1977, the song became a hit for the band and is considered one of their most` signature tracks. The song features a simple and haunting melody, carried by acoustic guitars, which is accompanied by lyrics that reflect on life and death.
Despite its melancholic themes, the song has a peaceful and meditative quality that has made it a timeless classic. As a guitar duet, “Dust in the Wind” showcases the delicate interplay between the two acoustic guitars, which combine to create a beautiful and moving musical experience.
Aces High by Iron Maiden
Song Year: 1984
Released in 1984, “Aces High” is a track from Iron Maiden’s fourth studio album, “Powerslave”. The song is a tribute to the bravery of pilots during World War II and features powerful guitar riffs and solos. The guitar duet in the song serves to create a sense of drama and urgency, mimicking the intensity of air combat. The track remains a fan favorite and is a classic among Iron Maiden’s live shows.
Don’t Look Back by Boston
Song Year: 1976
“Don’t Look Back” was a hit guitar duet track by the American rock band Boston. The song was released on their 1976 self-titled debut album and is known for its powerful and soaring guitar riffs, as well as its driving beat and memorable chorus.
The lyrics about looking forward and embracing the future are a call to action for the listener to not dwell on the past and to keep moving forward in life.
Jessica by The Allman Brothers Band
Song Year: 1973
This song was released on the album “Brothers and Sisters” in 1973 by The Allman Brothers Band. It was written by Dickey Betts and is an instrumental piece that features a fingerstyle guitar melody. The song’s mellow and atmospheric quality has made it a classic and a fan favorite. “Jessica” has become one of the most popular instrumentals in rock history and is considered a classic of the Southern rock genre.
All Down the Line by The Rolling Stones
Song Year: 1972
Taken from the 1972 album “Exile on Main St.”, “All Down the Line” is a bluesy rocker with a prominent guitar duet between Keith Richards and Mick Taylor. The song’s lyrics, written by Keith Richards, address the perils of fame and the fickleness of fans.
Despite not being released as a single, “All Down the Line” has become a fan favorite of The Rolling Stones’ live performances and is widely considered a classic track in their extensive discography.
Tornado Of Souls by Megadeth
Song Year: 1990
“Tornado of Souls” was released in 1990 as part of Megadeth’s fifth studio album, “Rust in Peace”. The song is known for its impressive guitar solos, which are performed in unison. The lyrics are an exploration of personal turmoil, and the guitar duet serves as a representation of the conflict between the protagonist and their inner demons. This track remains one of Megadeth’s most popular songs and a staple in their live setlist.
Detroit Rock City by Kiss
Song Year:
This song is an ode to the band’s fans, with lyrics that pay homage to the energetic and dedicated concert-goers. The guitar duets in the song serve to highlight the energy and excitement of the live performance. Over the years, “Detroit Rock City” has become a prime example of classic rock radio and is one of Kiss’ most well-known songs.
Wasted by Def Leppard
Song Year: 1983
“Wasted” by Def Leppard was released in 1983 as a part of the album “Pyromania”. The song reflects on the regret of wasted opportunities and missed chances. Its powerful guitar riffs and upbeat tempo made it a predominant hit of the 80’s rock scene and established its place as a classic rock hit.
South of Heaven by Slayer
Song Year: 1988
“South of Heaven” by Slayer was released in 1988 and showcases the band’s signature blend of thrash metal and dark lyrics. The song explores themes of mortality and the afterlife, and its fast-paced guitar duets have made it a fan favorite in the band’s live performances.
Hangar 18 by Megadeth
Song Year: 1990
“Hangar 18” by Megadeth was released in 1990 and is considered one of the band’s signature tracks. The song’s fast-paced guitar work and aggressive lyrics are centered around a conspiracy theory involving the alleged existence of a secret military facility. Its popularity as a guitar duet track (and a metal track) make it especially unique on this list.
The Trooper by Iron Maiden
Song Year: 1983
“The Trooper” by Iron Maiden was released in 1983 and is one of the band’s most well-known tracks. The song is based on the Crimean War and its lyrics reflect the bravery and sacrifice of soldiers. Its fast-paced guitar work and powerful vocals have made it a favorite of fans and a staple in Iron Maiden’s live performances.
While My Guitar Gently Weeps by The Beatles
Song Year: 1968
“While My Guitar Gently Weeps” by The Beatles is a classic guitar duet track that was released in 1968 on their self-titled album, also known as the “White Album.” The song features the iconic lead guitarist Eric Clapton and is a beautiful combination of the Beatles’ classic rock sound and Clapton’s bluesy style.
The singer’s sadness and frustration and the guitar solo provides a hauntingly beautiful contrast to the melancholic tone of the song. “While My Guitar Gently Weeps” remains one of The Beatles’ most popular tracks and is widely considered a classic example of a hit guitar duet song.
Don’t Let Me Down by The Beatles
Song Year: 1969
“Don’t Let Me Down” by The Beatles was released in 1969 and appears on their album “Let It Be.” This guitar duet track showcases the iconic guitar work of George Harrison and is an upbeat, rock-infused song with a very positive message.
The lyrics express the singer’s plea for support and encouragement, with the guitar solo adding a dynamic and uplifting touch to the song. “Don’t Let Me Down” remains a fan favorite and is widely considered a classic example of a hit guitar duet track.
Dream On by Aerosmith
Song Year: 1973
“Dream On” by Aerosmith is a powerful guitar duet track that was released in 1973 on their self-titled debut album. The song features the iconic guitar work of Joe Perry and is a classic example of the band’s blues-infused hard rock sound.
The singer’s determination to never give up on his dreams and the guitar solo adds a dynamic and intense touch to the song. “Dream On” remains one of Aerosmith’s most popular tracks and is widely considered a classic example of a hit guitar duet song.
Nightmare by Avenged Sevenfold
Song Year: 2010
“Nightmare” by Avenged Sevenfold is a heavy metal guitar duet track that was released in 2010 on their album “Nightmare.” The song features the powerful guitar work of Zacky Vengeance and Synyster Gates and is a classic example of the band’s unique blend of metal and hard rock.
The lyrics express the singer’s fear and anxiety and the guitar solo adds a dynamic and intense touch to the song. “Nightmare” remains one of Avenged Sevenfold’s most popular tracks and is widely considered a classic example of a hit guitar duet song.
Hold The Line by Toto
Song Year: 1978
“Hold The Line” by Toto is a classic guitar duet track that was released in 1978 on their self-titled debut album. The song features the iconic guitar work of Steve Lukather and is a smooth, catchy, and upbeat pop rock song.
The song describes the singer’s plea to maintain a relationship despite the challenges it may face, with the guitar solo adding a dynamic and upbeat touch to the song. Altogether, it remains one of Toto’s most popular tracks and is widely considered a classic example of a hit guitar duet song.
Layla by Derek And The Dominos
Song Year: 1970
“Layla” by Derek and the Dominos was released in 1970 and is one of the most popular guitar duet tracks of all time. Written by Eric Clapton, the song is a tale of unrequited love, with a melancholic yet soulful melody that has become synonymous with Clapton’s unique sound. The song’s iconic guitar duet is a highlight, with Clapton and Duane Allman exchanging licks and solos in a way that perfectly captures the emotions of the lyrics.
The Wicker Man by Iron Maiden
Song Year: 2000
“The Wicker Man” by Iron Maiden was released in 2000 and is a staple of the heavy metal genre. The song’s fast-paced, aggressive riffs and soaring vocals provide a stark contrast to the intricate guitar duet that runs throughout the track, making it a standout hit for the band. The guitar duet is a complex and dynamic conversation between two instruments, blending melody and rhythm in a way that showcases the technical prowess of the band’s guitarists.
Master of Puppets by Metallica
Song Year: 1986
“Master of Puppets” by Metallica was released in 1986 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavy metal albums of all time. The title track is a standout hit, with its intricate guitar duet and powerful lyrics about addiction and loss. The song’s guitar duet is a masterclass in technical skill, with both guitarists exchanging solos and riffs in a way that showcases their musical prowess.
One by Metallica
Song Year: 1988
“One” by Metallica was released in 1988 and is one of the band’s most iconic songs. The song’s powerful lyrics and haunting melody are complemented by a haunting guitar duet, with both guitarists exchanging solos in a way that perfectly captures the song’s themes of loss and isolation. The guitar duet is a highlight of the song, adding depth and emotion to the track and making it a timeless classic.
Round and Round by Ratt
Song Year: 1984
“Round and Round” by Ratt was released in 1984 and is one of the defining tracks of the 80s hair metal scene. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy chorus are complemented by a guitar duet that perfectly captures the fun, energetic spirit of the era. Both guitarists exchange solos and riffs in a way that showcases their incredible musical chemistry and skill, making this a must-see for any fans of quality guitar duets.
Eyes of a Stranger by Queensrÿche
Song Year: 1988
“Eyes of a Stranger” by Queensrÿche is a powerful ballad that reflects the disillusionment and paranoia of society. The song was released in 1988 as part of their album “Operation: Mindcrime”. The song features a haunting guitar melody and thought-provoking lyrics about the effects of technology and media on people’s perceptions of the world.
Electric Eye by Judas Priest
Song Year: 1982
“Electric Eye” by Judas Priest is a classic heavy metal track that showcases the band’s musical prowess. The song was released in 1982 in their album “Screaming for Vengeance”. Known for its fast-paced riff and lyrics about surveillance and control, it is considered a classic of the heavy metal genre and continues to be a fan favorite.
The Boys Are Back In Town by Thin Lizzy
Song Year: 1976
“The Boys Are Back in Town” by Thin Lizzy is a hard rock classic that celebrates the return of rebellious youth. The song was released in 1976 in their album “Jailbreak”. With its catchy melody and lyrics about the thrill of being young and carefree, this song is widely considered a classic of the hard rock genre and continues to be a staple of classic rock radio.
Simple Man by Lynyrd Skynyrd
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8eNoms9wsGc
Song Year: 1973
“Simple Man” by Lynyrd Skynyrd is a southern rock ballad that reflects the band’s passion for freedom and independence. The song was released in 1973 as part of their debut album “Pronounced Leh-nerd Skin-nerd”.
The song is characterized by its emotional guitar solo and lyrics that offer advice to listeners about how to live a fulfilling life. This song is widely considered a classic of the southern rock genre and is still widely loved and listened to this day.
Raining Blood by Slayer
Song Year: 1986
“Raining Blood” by Slayer is a thrash metal classic that reflects the band’s intense musical style. The song was released in 1986 as part of their album “Reign in Blood”. Its fast-paced riff and brutal lyrics that describe a world overrun by violence and chaos, and to this day remains a classic of the thrash metal genre.
Take Me Home, Country Roads by John Denver
Song Year: 1971
“Take Me Home, Country Roads” is a song by John Denver, released in 1971. The song became a huge hit and is widely regarded as one of his signature songs. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in several films and television shows.
Known for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and lyrics that celebrate the beauty of the country and the simple life, it has been played in a guitar duet style by many musicians, and its popularity as a duet has only added to its legacy as a classic hit song.
Open Arms by Journey
Song Year: 1981
“Open Arms” is a ballad by the American rock band Journey, released in 1981. It was a huge commercial success, reaching the top five on the US charts and becoming one of the band’s most enduring hits.
The song is known for its emotional lyrics and powerful vocal performance, and its simple melody makes it a popular choice for live performances and karaoke alike. Although not originally recorded as a guitar duet, “Open Arms” has been covered by many musicians and has become a popular choice for guitar duets, showcasing the song’s versatility and universal appeal.
Top Guitar Duet Songs, Final Thoughts
The world of guitar duet songs is vast and full of timeless classics. From rock to folk, to classical, and everything in between, there are countless incredible pieces to choose from. Whether you’re a seasoned guitarist or just starting out, exploring some of the world’s best guitar duet songs is an exciting and rewarding experience.
These songs offer a unique chance to collaborate and create something beautiful with another musician, and they are sure to inspire, challenge, and entertain you for years to come. So, whether you’re playing with a friend, a family member, or a stranger, these duet songs are a proof of the incredible power and versatility of the guitar, and they will undoubtedly continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.