James Hetfield of Metallica. As a guitarist, it's not easy to limit yourself to playing mostly rhythm, but James is a powerhouse. And though they changed formats and cut their hair, they still pack a punch with a modern sound.
David Gilmour!!! A member of one of the few bands to whom I would attribute true genius. He's got that soft voice that relaxes, then a solo style that gets you on the edge of your seat.
Edwin McCain. He doesn't get a lot of radio play (maybe four songs have been on the radio from five CD's), but he's a great songwriter. Like Hetfield, he plays rhythm, and most of the time he's on an acoustic. Awesome stuff, not bubblegum, but sort of a folky/blues sound. If you haven't heard him, I urge you to check him out!!! (the two best CD's are Misguided Roses and Messenger)
Harry Chapin, George Harrison, John Lennon, Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix...the list goes on and on.
