I agree with The Beatles as a choice, as for single artists who went through many bands. I would have to say Muddy Waters, all of the greatest guitarists of rock can trace their techniques and influences to Muddy Waters. True Rock & Roll is just edgy blues and R&B.
Although, a close second would be Bob Dylan. As he wrote many of the greatest hit of rock and also joined together Folk and Rock & Roll by playing an electric guitar at the Newport Jazz Festival in 1965. Blowin' In the Wind is an amazing example of this combination, as is Maggie's Farm.