Paul Gilbert Performs Van Halen's "Spanish Fly"
Paul Gilbert has a way of making everything look easy...
Above, check out a video of Racer X/Mr. Big guitarist Paul Gilbert playing "Spanish Fly," a classic 1979 instrumental tune by Van Halen.
Although we're not sure when (or where) the brief clip was filmed, we do know it was posted to YouTube back in 2009. Gilbert also plays impromptu versions of The Beatles' "Lovely Rita," Carole King's "I Feel the Earth Move" and The Ides of March's "Vehicle."
However, if you want to skip straight to "Spanish Fly," start the video at 2:08.
Check it out and tell us what you think in the comments or on Facebook! Enjoy!
Get The Pick Newsletter
All the latest guitar news, interviews, lessons, reviews, deals and more, direct to your inbox!
Since 1980, Guitar World has been the ultimate resource for guitarists. Whether you want to learn the techniques employed by your guitar heroes, read about their latest projects or simply need to know which guitar is the right one to buy, Guitar World is the place to look.

“The king of modern blues getting down and dirty (musically) with a former Van Halen singer”: January 2025 Guitar World Editors’ Picks

“I thought that it was a crime that these songs were sitting there on the shelf”: In the 1970s, Hayley Williams’ grandfather made an album that nobody heard. Now it’s finally being released through her Paramore bandmate’s label