Les Paul died yesterday at the beautiful age of 94. Regrettably, I never saw him perform live. Being a guitar lover like I am and having spent so much time with music technology it’s impossible not to take a moment to show some respect for the man who brought us the solid body electric guitar (though I never really cared for the Les Paul as I am more of a philistine Strat guy) and multitrack recording. Those two things right there get him on the top 10 list, but in the interviews with him what made him truly remarkable was his love for doing what he did.
I have a profound respect and jealousy for people who are in love with their day jobs. Make no mistake, I enjoy what I do and I believe I’m pretty good at it. That said, I do it more because I have a knack for it and enjoy the problems than because of a deep and abiding passion for it. Les Paul had that passion and drive.
He was still playing live. Still granting interviews (check out http://fretboardjournal.com/ for an interview with him a couple of issues back – great stuff!). Still making and loving music. His ethic and approach are an inspiration and he’ll be sorely missed by those who appreciate what he brought to the art form.
Maybe I should pick up a Les Paul custom in his honor.
But I don’t think I’d want to explain the credit card charge to my wife.
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