New to EQ

[Corvus]

Hey I'm new to P99 and really it'll be the first time I've played any classic EQ. I've spent probably the last day just absorbing information on all the classes and I still am not even close where to start and I could really use some help. I have a few questions and any help is appreciated.

I will be starting alone (other friends are dinks) and will mostly solo. What classes can solo without requiring a revolver beside the computer?

Which of these good soloing classes are not overplayed and just ignored when I do try and look for groups?

I originally wanted to make a Paladin but from everything I've read most melee classes played solo is a good way to burn yourself out.