Keith Richards
When the Rolling Stones debuted, Keith Richards was often dismissed as a Chuck Berry wannabe. The Blues and Berry in particular, had an indelible influence on the guitarist.
Aside from creating the incredible "Satisfaction" riff, Richards was a rather ordinary '60s guitarist - a job he shared in the Stones with the far more charismatic Brian Jones. Ironically, as Jones' drug problems took him out of commission, Richards came into his own. Also, the developing Mick Jagger/Keith Richards songwriting team began to blossom.
On "Beggars Banquet," Richards laid down the staccato guitar solo that highlights "Sympathy For The Devil" then delivers the down and dirty Blues guitar on "Stray Cat Blues."
From there, his work on "Gimme Shelter," "Jumpin' Jack Flash" and "Brown Sugar" show a guitarist in complete command - chords, riffs, licks, all seamlessly integrated. Richards gave Jagger a run for his money.
Of course, Richards had his own share of drug problems and looked "older than God" since he turned forty (ages ago) Richards Rocked the Stones' prime (1969-74) and made it happen. That's what counts. Nothing else.
See Rolling Stones.