Does Guitar World cover too many old-timers?

I’d like to comment on Tom Clement’s letter in the January 2022 Sounding Board (“Old wave?”). I agree with his statement and reasoning for the focus on the “oldtimers.” I enjoy history and reading about these great artists; however, I, too, would like to read about the new, up-and-coming guitarists that’ll keep rock and metal alive for the future. Here in central Kentucky, I know of one band that’s doing exactly that: Taylor Road, four men ranging in ages from 18 to 23. Their collective knowledge of rock and metal is extensive and adds to their ability to do a great job of paying homage to the greats in the covers they perform as well as strengthening their own music signature in their originals.

Until Guitar World’s writers and staff can figure out a way to feature the great unknown artists out there, Mr. Clement may want to visit Taylor Road’s Facebook and Instagram (@taylorroadofficial). I don’t think he’ll be disappointed, and he’ll enjoy seeing future legends in the making who will one day be featured in Guitar World.

— Brenda Lynch

I’m 56. If Guitar World didn’t have articles about my favorite “oldtimers” such as the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, the Who, Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Cream, Jimi Hendrix, Rush, Yes, Van Halen, Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck (I won’t list them all), I wouldn’t be a nearly 30-year subscriber! These bands are the foundation of who I am as a musician and singer. Perhaps, if the younger generation created memorable, creative, timeless songs, Guitar World would have no need to write about the “old-timers.” How many songs written in the last 20 years will still be on the radio 40 or 50 years from now? The answer is simple: None! There are a lot of young, talented guitarists out there, but it’s pointless to play that well when you can’t write a great song to save your life. I’ll take the music of “old-timers” any day over the music created in the 2000s.

— Dennis