years, Phillips reformed the Creation for live
gigs and recording sessions. The band is
still at it today, though Phillips is the only
original member.
Roy Wood
Finally, Roy Wood—lead guitarist with the
Move and co-founder of Electric Light
Orchestra—should be recognized for his
guitar skills. Known more as a songwriter
and ensemble player, Wood nonetheless
was an adept guitarist with an R&B and
roots-rock background. Playing a white
pre-CBS Fender Strat and a Fender Electric
XII on such Move cuts as “Fire Brigade,”
“Flowers in the Rain,” “Night of Fear,” “I
Can Hear the Grass Grow,” “Brontosaurus,”
and “Kilroy Was Here,” Wood epitomized
the jangly British power pop of the mid
to late ’60s.
The Move eventually morphed into Electric
Light Orchestra with guitarist Jeff Lynne
aboard, but Wood’s time with ELO was
short—he left after their first album.
Following his stint with ELO, Wood enjoyed
chart success with his own band, Wizzard.
Though Wood is now semi-retired, he ventures out occasionally for live gigs.
Honoring Rock’s Forebears
The obvious guitar gods were not the only
ones making waves in ’60s rock music. The
gods were often simply those guitarists who
got the most press. All the lesser-known
players in this story have one thing in com-
mon: They went about their business without
much fanfare and contributed positively to
the music, art, and culture of that tumultuous
time. In doing so, they made their mark in
their own special ways.
When you get a chance, dig into those dusty
vinyl LPs in your basement or go through
your dad’s record collection. You may discover a special guitarist who will inspire you
to explore new musical directions.
