Anyone who's ever picked up and played a solid-body electric guitar has had the great Les Paul to thank for having done so much to bring that wonder into the world.But "Red-Hot Red," who died yesterday at the age of 94, was more than an inventor. At different stages in his life, he was a sound guru, a recording artist, and, above all, a performer. In fact, he was still playing two shows, one night a week, until earlier this year. Few people have lived such a full life.
Back in 2005, I traveled with my daughter Chloe and some other musicians from her high school to see him play at the Iridium Jazz Club in Manhattan. What a night! So glad we went.
Frank -
ReplyDeleteI thought of you IMMEDIATELY when I heard Les Paul had died because I knew you had seen him not long ago.
I heard an interview with him from 1992 on Public Radio Friday afternoon in which he said he had (at that time - some 17 years ago - arthritis in both hands so bad he ONLY had 1 1/2 half fingers (which he counted as "two") on his left hand that were still movable!?! The rest were frozen stiff. That is UTTERLY amazing!!
It was an awesome interview that I'd LOVE to share with you by phone. I called my mom and shared it with her because I remember when I was but a small child hearing Les Paul & Mary Ford on LPs my parents had.
Many blessings to you & your family today, Frank!! Hope things are good there in Amarillo.
Dee