Who is the Best Acoustic Guitarist in the World Right Now? (2025 Updated)
When it comes to acoustic guitar, millions of guitar enthusiasts around the globe wonder the same thing “Who is the best acoustic guitarist in the world right now?”.
This question isn’t as simple as picking one name. The acoustic guitar world is rich with legendary masters, rising stars, and innovators pushing the boundaries of music every single day. From fingerstyle geniuses to soulful singer songwriters, the best acoustic guitarist can be defined by technique, influence, and emotional connection to their audience.
In this blog, we’ll know about the leading acoustic guitarists of today, analyze what makes them unique, and share why fans and critics consider them at the top of the acoustic guitar world.
By the end, you’ll not only know who holds the crown right now but also know several players who deserve your attention.
What Defines the “Best Acoustic Guitarist”?
Before going into names, it’s important to know, what does “best” really mean when it comes to acoustic guitar?
Technical Skill: Fingerpicking, flatpicking, harmonics, percussive playing, and complex arrangements.
Creativity & Innovation: Pioneering new styles, blending genres, and creating unique sounds.
Influence: Inspiring millions of players, shaping modern acoustic guitar trends.
Emotional Impact: A guitarist who makes you feel something beyond just technical brilliance.
Consistency & Popularity: Remaining relevant while producing quality performances and recordings.
Now let’s explore the names dominating the acoustic guitar world right now.
Who is the Best Acoustic Guitarist in the World Right Now?
1. Tommy Emmanuel - The Fingerstyle Legend
If you ask most guitarists, Tommy Emmanuel is one of the first names that come to our mind. A two-time Grammy nominee from Australia, he is famous for his virtuosic fingerstyle technique, blending melody, rhythm, and percussion into a single guitar performance.
Watching Tommy live is like watching a full band, yet it’s just one man and his guitar.
Why he’s considered the best right now:
Inspires both beginners and professionals alike.
Brings soul, humor, and storytelling into his performances.
Decades of consistency with a growing global audience.
2. Andy McKee - The YouTube Pioneer
Andy McKee is another powerhouse who changed the acoustic guitar scene forever with his viral YouTube videos like Drifting.
His percussive, melodic, and harmonic playing opened doors for a new generation of players.
Why he stands out today:
Innovative percussive fingerstyle.
Huge influence on young guitarists inventing new acoustic music.
Still actively performing and inspiring in 2025.
3. Sungha Jung - The Modern Acoustic Prodigy
Korean guitarist Sungha Jung rose to fame as a teenager on YouTube. And today, he is considered as one of the finest acoustic players globally.
His arrangements of popular songs and original compositions showcase both technical skill and emotional depth.
Why he’s a top contender:
Millions of global fans and viral covers.
Smooth, melodic style that appeals to a wide audience.
Continues to release music that blends technical mastery with emotional storytelling.
4. Antoine Dufour - The Technical Genius
Canadian guitarist Antoine Dufour is known for his intricate fingerstyle compositions that push the limits of the acoustic guitar.
His ability to weave harmonics, tapping, and rhythmic patterns into one seamless performance is jaw dropping.
Why he deserves the top contender:
Master of modern fingerstyle.
High influence on the next generation of guitarists.
Active performer with electrifying live shows.
5. Ed Sheeran – The Global Acoustic Icon
While some may argue Ed Sheeran is more of a pop star than a guitar virtuoso. There’s no denying his influence.
He brought acoustic guitar back to the center stage of mainstream music, using loop pedals and clever arrangements to craft hit after hit.
Why he’s relevant in this conversation:
Most recognized acoustic guitarist plus singer in the world.
Uses technology (loop stations) to redefine live acoustic performance.
Introduced millions to acoustic guitar culture.
Rising Stars in the Acoustic Guitar World
Apart from above listed legends, several rising stars deserve recognition in 2025:
Marcin Patrzałek: Polish guitarist blending classical, flamenco, and modern percussive techniques.
Calum Graham: Canadian prodigy known for soulful compositions and flawless technique.
Gabriella Quevedo: Swedish guitarist with millions of fans online, admired for her smooth covers and originals.
Mike Dawes: British guitarist pushing boundaries with two-handed tapping and advanced fingerstyle.
These artists represent the future of acoustic guitar, ensuring the art form keeps evolving.
My Personal Ophinion?
As a guitar enthusiast and writer, if I had to choose one name for the best acoustic guitarist in the world right now, I’d pick Tommy Emmanuel.
He mix technical mastery with pure musical joy, and he’s globally respected by fans, peers, and legends alike. However, music is subjective, and what moves one person may not move another. That’s the beauty of acoustic guitar.
There isn’t one best guitarist, but rather a collection of masters who inspire us all.
Summary / Final thought:
So, who is the best acoustic guitarist in the world right now?
If we’re talking about influence, technique, and global respect, Tommy Emmanuel often comes ahead.
But the real answer is, it depends on you. Whether it’s Andy McKee’s innovation, Sungha Jung’s melodic charm, or Marcin Patrzałek’s youthful energy, the best guitarist is the one who moves/inspires you the most.
In 2025 and beyond, acoustic guitar remains alive, evolving, and inspiring millions around the globe. One thing is certain, no matter who you choose as the best, you’ll never run out of incredible acoustic guitarists to admire.
