Joe Satriani, point blank. He's the inspiration/teacher behind greats like Steve Vai, Kirk Hammett, and many more.

There is another up-and-comer, a eccentric guitarist from Spain, named David Valdes. Most people haven't heard of him, but he's been around for a while, and is just now going solo.

Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton, Eddie Van Halen, they're all excellent players in their own rights. But, in terms of virtuosity and sheer brilliance on the fretboard, none of them compare to Joe Satch!

Peace.

Mr. C