August 13, 2009

RIP Les Paul

Electric guitar innovator and extraordinaire Les Paul died today at the age of 94 of complications from pneumonia. According to the Associated Press, his family and friends were by his side.

Born Lester William Polfuss, Paul helped pioneer the solid-body electric guitar—which more or less gave birth to rock and roll—as well as recording innovations including multitrack recording, overdubbing, and delay.

Paul, an accomplished jazz guitarist, once said about playing music: "It's not technique. It's what you have to say."

Sam Cooke with Eric Clapton and Les Paul - "Somebody Ease My Troublin' Mind" (from Les Paul & Friends)

Les Paul & Steve Miller - Les Paul & Friends: American Made World Played

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