Kerry King’s top five guitar players of all time are Ritchie Blackmore, Tony Iommi, Eddie Van Halen, Glenn Tipton, and Zakk Wylde.
King expressed a lack of guitar heroes in the hard rock and heavy metal scene in 2015, stating that many musicians lacked the necessary “vibe” to inspire others.
He criticized modern guitar players for being boring and lethargic, lacking the aspiration and energy that he believes is essential in music.
King defended his out-of-key lead guitar playing style, stating that he believes in bending the rules and playing what sounds good or weird rather than being bound by traditional music theory.
King’s debut solo album, “From Hell I Rise,” was released in May, featuring material written by King and produced by Josh Wilbur.