Duane Eddy, a guitar hero known for his resonant electric sound on hits like “Peter Gunn,” which pioneered early rock ‘n’ roll, has died.
Eddy died of cancer Tuesday at Williamson Health Hospital in Franklin, Tennessee, his wife, Deed Abbate, confirmed.
The Grammy-winning artist, known for his instrumental hits during the 1950s and ’60s, returned to the charts in 1986 with a new version of his classic song “Peter Gunn.” Celebrated for his unique sound, he earned the title “King of Twang” for his distinctive musical style.
“Duane inspired a generation of guitarists around the world with his unmistakable ‘Twang’ sound,” said Eddy’s manager. Variety. “He was rock and roll’s first guitar god, a truly humble and incredible human being. He will be missed.”
Born in Corning, New York, in 1938, Eddy began playing guitar at an early age. Throughout an illustrious career that spanned seven decades, he sold more than 100 million records.
He gained fame with a unique and vibrant guitar style, which influenced musicians such as George Harrison and Hank Marvin, and Southern California surf bands in the 1960s. His style was also recognized by Bruce Springsteen, especially on “Born to Run.”
Duane Eddy also had a notable career in Hollywood
Movie studios noticed Eddy’s leading man’s good looks and soon cast him in high-profile projects. He appeared on screen as an actor in several films, particularly the high school drama. because they are youngwith Dick Clark and Tuesday Weld, as well as the Western television series Have a weapon – Will travel with Richard Boone. Beyond acting, he showcased his talent by composing the theme song, “The Ballad of Paladin,” for the latter.
Duane Eddy strumming the guitar between scenes from the film ‘A Thunder Of Drums’, 1961. (Photo by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer/Getty Images)
Eddy also took on the role of record producer for Phil Everly and Waylon Jennings. Jennings later married Eddy’s second wife, country singer Jessi Colter, after their seven-year marriage ended in 1968.
Eddy’s popularity waned with the British Invasion of 1964-65 which changed American musical tastes; However, his classic songs appeared in more than 30 films and television shows. He made iconic comebacks, even hitting the charts in 1986 with a remake of his 1960 single “Peter Gunn” with the British group Art of Noise.
Duane Eddy with legendary guitarist Bo Diddley circa 2003. (Photo by Frank Mullen/Getty Images)
He was honored with induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994. In 2008, he was also honored with induction into the Musicians Hall of Fame and Museum.
Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn