When I started learning guitar I had many guitar heroes, but my absolute favorite was Randy Rhoads. His blazing riff work and insane solos made me want to achieve great things as a guitar player. I even began learning classical style playing so I could play just like Randy.
This actually turned out to be a very great thing for me! I found through my classical studies that the more I learned, the more I improved in all styles of guitar. I soon found myself playing faster, more intricate patterns on electric guitar, and had a better sense of melody and complex harmony. My fingers can now easily glide over the strings with ease and accuracy, and I feel more confident in my playing.
I have since moved on to other guitar heroes, some in the classical style, others in rock and heavy metal, but I will never forget the influence Randy Rhoads had on my life as a guitarist!