Martin Barre

Former Jethro Tull guitarist and progressive rock icon

Martin Barre is best known as the long-time guitarist of the British rock band Jethro Tull, with his career spanning more than four decades with the group. He joined Jethro Tull in 1969, contributing to their distinctive sound with his guitar playing, and was a key member until the band's initial end in 2011. Barre's guitar riff on "Aqualung" is particularly famous and often cited as one of the greatest guitar riffs in rock history. After Jethro Tull, Martin Barre continued to pursue music, focusing on a solo career that allowed him to explore different musical avenues beyond the progressive rock for which he was known. He has released several solo albums showcasing his versatility as a guitarist and composer. His work outside of Jethro Tull has been well-received by fans and critics alike, demonstrating his prowess as a musician beyond the context of the band that made him famous.