Personally, in this context, I dont think the OP meant "being dissed or the subject of dismissive or derogatory comments". I think the OP meant what seems to be a common usage of the words "musically under-rated": not talked about that much or as well known as the giants in the field. And the problem with this today is... well, just look at the thread. There are SO MANY really good guitarists now, because there are SO MANY bands. Its almost impossible to cut thru to the top of the slag heap now. Even crazier, I know guys here in Atlanta, just playing bars, that are good beyond belief and from the samples I've heard from some of the guys on this thread.... way better, in my subjective opinion. Guitar is so mainstream now, so non-unique, so vanilla as a musical choice or even career choice... you might as well be arguing about who are the unrecognized graphic designers.
Dave Mason - at least he’s been severely under-rated by me all these years since I saw his performance on Infinity Hall Live (Public Television), not realizing he played his own solos.
Phil Solem of The Rembrandts. On their 2nd album "Untitled" he plays great solos on "Chase The Clouds Away" and "Rolling Down The Hill". Great guitar all over Untitled. The Rembrandts had great power pop songs, lead and harmony vocals, self produced by Phil and Danny Wilde. Too bad many eople's opinions of The Rembrandts comes from a certain TV theme.