Paul Gilbert
Virtuoso Guitarist & Heavy Metal Innovator
Paul Gilbert is widely celebrated as one of the most technically gifted and influential guitarists in modern rock and heavy metal. First rising to prominence in the Los Angeles heavy metal scene as a teenager, Gilbert co-founded the trailblazing speed metal band Racer X before achieving global superstardom as the co-founder and lead guitarist of the multi-platinum hard rock band Mr. Big. Known for his blistering alternate picking, flawless precision, and deep sense of melody, he launched a celebrated solo career in 1996 that spans hard rock, blues, and neoclassical heavy metal.
Key Bands & Projects
- Racer X: Co-founded the high-speed heavy metal outfit, showcasing blazing twin-guitar attacks and jaw-dropping technicality.
- Mr. Big: Achieved worldwide mainstream success and arena-level acclaim, known for melodic hard rock anthems and virtuosic musicianship.
- Solo Career & Collaborations: Released an extensive catalog of solo guitar masterworks and collaborated with elite players across the rock world.
Selected Discography
Notable Solo Albums
- Alligator Farm (2000)
- Burning Organ (2002)
- Get Out of My Yard (2006)
- Silence Followed by a Deafening Roar (2008)
- Fuzz Universe (2010)
- Behold Electric Guitar (2019)
- Werewolves of Portland (2021)
- The Dio Album (2023)
- WROC (2026)
Essential Band Releases
- Racer X: Street Lethal (1986), Second Heat (1987), Technical Difficulties (1999)
- Mr. Big: Mr. Big (1989), Lean Into It (1991), What If... (2010), The BIG Finish Live (2024)
On the Road with NDV: Paul Gilbert’s Mr. Big Road Rig