10 Must-Read Books for Guitarists This Summer

Summer’s here — and while your guitar is hopefully getting some sunshine and jam sessions, it's also a great time to refresh your musical mindset with a thought-provoking book. Whether you’re looking to deepen your technical chops, expand your creative horizons, or just get inspired, these ten titles are solid reads for guitarists of all stripes.

From deep dives into music history to philosophical reflections on creativity and practical technique guides, this list has something for every player. Grab a coffee and let's go.

1. Mood Machine: The Rise of Spotify and the Costs of the Perfect Playlist

For the thoughtful listener and self-aware creator.

A sharp investigation into how Spotify and streaming have reshaped the music industry — for both listeners and artists. Drawing from deep reporting and insider interviews, Pelly exposes the hidden mechanics of playlist culture, algorithm-driven listening, and the fight for fairer models in music’s digital age.

2. How Music Works by David Byrne

For the curious mind who loves both art and architecture of music.

David Byrne, best known as the frontman of Talking Heads, blends memoir, history, and practical insight in this wide-ranging meditation on music. Guitarists will appreciate how Byrne breaks down the relationship between sound, environment, and performance — with reflections on everything from rehearsal spaces to the economics of touring. I find myself referencing this book a lot.

3. The Birth of Loud: Leo Fender, Les Paul, and the Guitar-Pioneering Rivalry That Shaped Rock 'n' Roll by Ian S. Port

For lovers of gear history and vintage tone.

A fast-paced, well-researched history of the electric guitar revolution. Port tells the tale of Leo Fender and Les Paul — two men who changed the course of music forever. It’s a fascinating look at how innovation, rivalry, and raw vision birthed the instruments we know and love today. A must-read for anyone who geeks out over pickups and headstocks.

4. The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin

For the introspective artist navigating the highs and lows of making music.

Rick Rubin — legendary producer and quiet guru — offers a book that’s less how-to and more how-to-be. It’s filled with poetic reflections on the nature of creativity, resistance, and flow. Guitarists will find it grounding and invigorating, especially in those frustrating or directionless moments we all face as artists.

5. String Theories: Tips, Challenges, and Reflections for the Lifelong Guitarist by Adam Levy & Ethan Sherman

For the seasoned guitarist looking for depth and honesty.

This collection of essays, lessons, and musings from two seasoned guitarists reads like a long, thoughtful conversation over coffee. Adam Levy and Ethan Sherman explore everything from gear choices to the philosophy of practice, sharing insights you won’t find in standard technique books. It’s smart, warm, and packed with wisdom for anyone walking the long path of guitar playing.

6. The Inner Game of Fingerstyle Guitar by Adam Rafferty

For fingerstyle players ready to conquer the mental game.

Adam Rafferty, a virtuosic fingerstyle guitarist, brings performance psychology into the world of solo guitar. Inspired by The Inner Game of Tennis, this book helps players develop mental focus, overcome stage fright, and unlock deeper musical expression. It’s especially helpful if you’re preparing for gigs, recording, or just want to feel more in control of your playing.

7. The War of Art by Steven Pressfield

For the artist battling resistance and procrastination.

A modern classic for creators of all kinds. Pressfield’s concept of “Resistance” — that internal force that keeps us from doing the work — hits home for anyone who's ever struggled to start (or finish) a song. Guitarists trying to stay consistent, finish that album, or just keep the spark alive will find a powerful ally in this slim but punchy read.

8. Principles of Orchestration by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov

For the adventurous player exploring compositional color.

Yes, it’s a century-old orchestration textbook — but don’t overlook this gem. Rimsky-Korsakov’s insights into texture, timbre, and instrumental interaction offer surprising value for guitarists, especially those arranging, composing, or working in ensemble settings. Plus, it stretches your ears beyond the six-string and into the full spectrum of sound.

9. The History of Jazz by Ted Gioia

For the guitarist who wants to understand the roots.

If you play jazz — or even just flirt with it — this sweeping and accessible history from Ted Gioia is a must-read. From New Orleans to the avant-garde, Gioia traces the genre’s evolution and the social and cultural forces behind it. Guitarists will find context for the music they love and new appreciation for the genre’s key innovators, including jazz guitar greats.

10. Bonus Pick: A Blank Journal

For your own notes, sketches, song ideas, and breakthroughs.

Okay, not a traditional book. But sometimes the most important thing you can read is your own thoughts. Use a blank notebook to capture ideas from these reads, experiment with exercises, or sketch out song structures and chord progressions. Let it be the sandbox for your creative summer.

Wrap-up

Great guitar playing isn’t just about time with your instrument — it’s also about expanding your mind, listening deeply, and staying creatively lit. These books will help you do just that. So whether you’re in the studio or reading poolside, consider this your summer reading list for becoming not just a better guitarist — but a more well-rounded musician.