Are there any? Absolutely! Although we generally think of "Guitar Heroes" as being from the World of Rock, like Hendrix, Beck and Clapton, there is a innovative "crop" of new musicians creating "music from the soul to open the heart.
" Obviously, these new guitar heroes, are inspired by, and built on the legacies of those who have gone before.
The most prominent and influential in modern times was Ramon Montoya.
Although he is best remembered as the Uncle of the trail-blazing Flamenco guitarist, Carlos Montoya, it was, in fact, Ramon who did the "trail blazing" and Carlos who followed,expanding his Uncle's accomplishment.
That accomplishment, was a major one.
Elevating Flamenco Music from it's strictly accompanying role, to a foreground one.
Carlos then proceeded to popularize Flamenco music by virtually constant world touring in the 20's through the 50's.
Incorporating also Jazz,Folk, Blues and Classical influences into his traditional Flamenco.
The "Flamenco torch" was then passed to the remarkable Paco de Lucia.
Who, like Ramon and Carlos Montoya, began his professional career accompanying Flamenco dancers and singers.
Subsequently, Paco developed, and continues, a career as a Flamenco innovator.
Both solo and with his group.
And, like Carlos,Paco's compositions reflect his interest in a wide variety of musical styles.
Inspired by, and building on the traditions of the Montoyas and Paco, today's Spanish guitar heros are blazing new music frontiers, yet again.
The technically dazzling, but always soulful Lawson Rollins.
A native of North Carolina, now living in San Francisco.
The Chilean born Oscar Lopez, now living in Canada.
Thrilling audiences with his rhythm and passion.
For some reasons, maybe just coincidence, Canda seems to be a magnet for the new crop of Flamenco Heroes.
For in addition to Oscar Lopez, it is in Toronto that the Trindadian born flamenco virtuoso Migeul de la Bastide is based.
Another "Canadian Connection" is Guitarist Jesse Cook.
Born in Paris to Canadian parents,and now,like his other Canadian "musical brothers" based in Canada, Jesse spent his formative years in the Camargue region of France.
Where he was influenced by the local gypsy music.
Particularly that of guitarist Manitas de Plata,(his next door neighbour) and Nicholas Reyes,lead singer of the Gypsy Kings.
Of all the new Spanish guitar heroes,perhaps the one who most effortlessly combines elements of all the styles of the other guitarists mentioned, is Santiago Cortez.
One is immediately struck by both the quality and the variety of his compositions.
He is a purist.
In the sense that each idiom, each influence, is respected and honored in the context of the composition.
His flawless technique and genuine gift for melody, always letting it lead the listener's ear, ensures a unique musical experience every time.
While Santiagos music is accessible and familiar, it is never derivative.
His amalgam of musical styles and influences is seamless and unconscious.
The hallmark of a professional at the top of his game.
Spanish guitar heroes? Here's five to enjoy!