Lester William Polsfuss, known as Les Paul born June 9, 1915 has passed away August 13, 2009. Paul was a pioneer in the development of the solid-body electric guitar which “made the sound of rock and roll possible.” His many recording innovations included overdubbing (also known as sound on sound), delay effects such as tape delay, phasing effects, and multitrack recording.

His innovative talents extended into his unique playing style, including licks, trills, chording sequences, fretting techniques and timing, which set him apart from his contemporaries and inspired many of the guitarists of the present day.

Les Paul the electric guitar inventor dies at age 94

Les Paul died of complications from pneumonia at White Plains Hospital in White Plains, New York. His family and friends were by his side. His attorney Michael Braunstein said that Paul had been “in and out of the hospital” because of illness.

On hearing of his death, Rolling Stone reported that, “many of those he influenced jumped online (and called up Rolling Stone) to share their tributes to the father of the electric six-string.” Among those who paid tribute to Les Paul were Saul “Slash” Hudson, Joe Satriani, Tom Morello, John Mayer, Ace Frehley, Brian “Head” Welch, Tad Kubler, and Keith Richards.

Quotes

“We must all own up that without Les Paul, generations of flash little punks like us would be in jail or cleaning toilets. ”

—Keith Richards,

“Les Paul was a shining example of how full one’s life can be… He was so vibrant and full of positive energy. I’m honoured and humbled to have known and played with him over the years, he was an exceptionally brilliant man.”

—Saul Hudson,

“Remembering Les Paul today. Just happened to have his namesake Gibson around my shoulder the last few days. Pictures of Les Paul all over the studio today. Very special day in here. You should wiki his life. Pretty amazing.”

—John Mayer