"Allan was simply the finest, most talented guitarist on planet Earth. He was both cognitively and physically light years beyond all other guitarists/musicians. If he were a mathematician, he would have been in a category with Albert Einstein. If all other guitarists who are considered "great" were the brightness of a lit candle, Allan was a towering inferno! My deepest condolences to his family. The world lost a once in a millennia talent and a humble, giving man. RIP fine sir. Dr. Ralph Biansco"
– Ralph Biansco,
Glenside, PA, Nov 25, 2017
"miss you allan me and my husband you know him as big john.thank you for being a great friend miss those day at the local watering hole just talking about family and good times ..R.I.P.thinking of you ,will be playing your music on your birthday.."
– diane tyszka,
vista, CA, Aug 05, 2017
"Allan was a huge inspiration for me on guitar. His beautiful and creative music with all the intricate chords and beautifully complex guitar solos still continue to intrigue me after four decades of listening to all of his amazing albums. I'm so fortunate to have seen him in concert a number of times, and I will always cherish those experiences. My deepest condolences go out to his family. RIP Mr. Allan Holdsworth"
– John Jachens,
Sacramento, CA, Jul 18, 2017
"I first met Allan in his home in Yorkshire when I was forming a group to go to Brussels where I had a record deal. In the event, I had to go to Brussels alone, but, when I returned, I was glad to meet up with Allan again. When the excellent Alan Wormald left my band at Sunderland Mecca to go on the road, Allan Holdsworth took his place as my lead guitarist, playing the pop music of the day and strict tempo dance music. We spent two years together on the Mecca circuit during which time Allan also started playing violin and clarinet and, within three weeks, he was very good on both instruments. Aware of his extraordinary talent, I took Allan to Ronnie Scott's Club to meet up with Ray Whalley, knowing that Allan had to move on. Before he left, Allan gave me his rehearsal guitar, a Hoffner Verythin, which he made sound like a Gibson, and which I still have and treasure. I retained an interest in his career, even bought his "Tempest" album and many others. His passing has come as a great shock. I always regarded him as a great friend and wish to send condolences to his family."
– Glen South,
Colne, Lancs, England, Jun 17, 2017
"You were the greatest guitarist ever for me, I will miss your beautiful legato notes, you touched my heart like no one has, I love you Allan, always in my ❤"