“The Warning’s Dani Villarreal Named One of Rock’s Top 10 Guitarists of the Decade”
In a moment that marks a historic milestone not just for Latin rock but for women in music worldwide, Dani Villarreal — the blazing lead guitarist of Mexican power trio The Warning — has officially been named one of the Top 10 Rock Guitarists of the Decade by Rock Authority Magazine. The announcement came as part of the publication’s 10-year retrospective, which featured an elite list of genre-defining guitarists who’ve reimagined rock for a new generation.
At just 24 years old, Daniela “Dani” Villarreal has become a symbol of modern guitar excellence. Known for her commanding stage presence, gritty tone, and emotionally-charged solos, Dani’s playing fuses the aggression of classic hard rock with the sensitivity and precision of modern alt-metal. Her technique, honed since childhood alongside sisters Pau and Ale, has earned her praise from legends like Kirk Hammett and Lzzy Hale — the latter calling Dani “a once-in-a-generation kind of player.”
The magazine cited her standout performances on The Warning’s latest album, “Keep Me Fed,” as a key reason for her placement on the list. Songs like “S!ck” and “More” feature razor-sharp riffs and explosive breakdowns that showcase Dani’s versatility, from thunderous rhythm sections to soaring melodic leads. Her solo work on the track “Qué Más Quieres” was specifically highlighted for its bilingual, genre-blending intensity.
“Dani Villarreal didn’t just step into the spotlight — she kicked the door wide open,” the magazine wrote. “Her playing speaks to a new age of rock where technical skill, raw emotion, and unapologetic identity collide.”
The news has sent The Warning’s passionate global fanbase into celebration mode, with social media flooded by tributes, performance clips, and messages of congratulations. Dani responded with characteristic humility, thanking fans via Instagram: “This is for every girl who was told she couldn’t shred. Keep playing. Loudly.”
As The Warning continues their meteoric rise — with sold-out shows, festival appearances, and more new music on the way — Dani Villarreal’s recognition signals that the future of rock is not only loud but brilliantly diverse. And she’s just getting started.
