When I think about this subject, things can go on for ever.
Some considerations:
Are we talking about influences. In my mind Louis influenced everyone. On the other hand he never fretted a note. If we are making a list of only guitarists, he's not on it, no matter how influental he is.
After this, I tend to think in terms of 'generations' allthough this is fuzzy.
For instance:
Earliest I can think of: Eddie Lang, and ?Johnny St. Cyr--the banjoist>>occasional guitarist with Louis' Hot Five & Seven
Robert Johnson, the blues guitarist cut one or two sides with Duke's band,
Next: Django, Freddie Green and other big band guitarists, probably including George VanEps
Next: WWII and the onset of electric guitar: Charlie Christian, some I don't remember and don't forget some of the Western Swingers who played with Bob Wills-I have heard that they got to Kansas City and mixed it up with Basie's bunch.
Next: The fiftys. Barney Kessel, Johnny Smith and a great many more.
Next--you fill in the rest.
Last-you, me and everyone on this list.
Al
