Les Paul (1915-2009)

[bookslover]

Les Paul died today, of complications of pneumonia, at the age of 94.

He was a true innovator: a legendary guitarist, he had many hit records with his wife, singer Mary Ford; as a technician, he virtually created the recording process known as multitracking; and as a guitar designer, his Gibson Les Paul is still one of the most influential guitars ever, being played by many famous guitarists, both in rock and jazz.

Les Paul and the late Leo Fender pretty much made the guitar (especially for rock and roll) what it is today.

Truly, he was one of the greats.

 

[LawrenceU]

Yes, he was. And, I wish I still had my Gibson Les Paul.

A friend of mine suggested that the nation take a moment of silence in honour of Les Paul. I countered that we should have a moment of riffs.

 

[BobVigneault]

I was genuinely sad when I heard Les died. His music was always playing in our house when I was quite young. Though I've always been a Fender player I have enjoyed the Les Paul's I've been able to play with over the years. I was hoping Les would make it to his 100th and have a party in Milwaukee. His funeral should be an amazing list of music's who's who.

This is one of my all time favorite commercials, the beer is awful but the vignette is awesome. Good-bye Les.

[video=youtube;S8O5wZAd2z4]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8O5wZAd2z4[/video]

 

[LawrenceU]

That is a great commercial.