Dear Mr. Fantasy
Traffic, 1967, from Mr. Fantasy. Solo by Steve Winwood.
Winwood switches from organ to guitar for a lyrical, building solo that became the song's centrepiece.
Dear Mr. Fantasy shows Steve Winwood's range, as he switches from organ to guitar for its central solo. His lead is lyrical and building, starting with gentle, melodic phrases and gradually growing into more intense, bluesy lines. Winwood's playing is patient and expressive, drawing on blues and jazz while keeping the song's psychedelic atmosphere. The solo became the song's centrepiece and a showcase for his musicianship. Listen for how he develops each phrase, gradually increasing speed and intensity, and for the way the rhythm section pushes the energy upward, turning a reflective song into a powerful, cathartic climax that has made it a live favourite.
Dear Mr. Fantasy by Traffic is featured in our Psychedelic (#21) list. The solo is played by Steve Winwood and the song was released in 1967.
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Who played the guitar solo on Dear Mr. Fantasy?
Steve Winwood played the solo on Traffic's Dear Mr. Fantasy (1967).