There are few who have steered the course of an art form the way Les Paul did. Had he not invented the solidbody electric guitar or the multi-track recorder, I'd still be writing an homage to a great innovator in jazz and pop guitar playing today, but fortunately for musicians and listeners alike, he was much more.
Les Paul (nee Lester William Polfus) heard sounds in his head that was beyond the technology available, and was ingenious and determined enough to chase after them. The result is the basic tools that make up rock and roll as we know it. I defy you to find any nonclassical recording after say, 1960, that wouldn't sound quite different if not for his contributions.
A musician foremost and a scientist second, Paul continued to play a weekly gig at New York's Iridium well into his nineties, frequently letting younger up and coming musicians and big names alike join him onstage for a chance to jam with a legend. It's an openness, lack of pretense and clear demonstration of a love of music that any performer who can claim .01% of Paul's impact would do well to learn from.
Les Paul died today at 94 from complications from pneumonia. The cliche about his work living on can not be understated.
Note: I apologize for the horribly sexist Listerine commerical midway through the clip, though it's kind of hilarious.
