Legendary Guitarist Duane Eddy Passes Away at 86

Legendary guitarist Duane Eddy, renowned for pioneering the iconic ‘twangy’ sound in rock’n’roll, has passed away at the age of 86 after battling cancer.

Eddy, a distinguished inductee in both the Rock’n’Roll Hall of Fame and Musicians Hall of Fame, earned the title of ‘titan of twang’ for his distinctive guitar style that captivated audiences in the 1950s and 60s.

Recognized as the first rock and roll guitar god, Duane Eddy revolutionized guitar playing by focusing on the lower strings of the instrument, introducing a unique vibrato effect with the tremolo arm.

During his teenage years in Arizona, Eddy collaborated with producer Lee Hazlewood, co-creating hits like ‘Moovin’ and Groovin» in 1957 and his most famous track ‘Rebel-Rouser’ in 1958.

Eddy’s enduring influence extended through the decades, with his rendition of Henry Mancini’s ‘Peter Gunn‘ becoming a sensation in 1959 and winning a Grammy for Best Rock Instrumental Performance in 1985 when remixed by the UK’s Art of Noise.

His repertoire of chart-topping singles such as ‘Shazam’ and ‘Because They’re Young’ in the 1960s, and collaborations like ‘Play Me Like You Play Your Guitar’ with the Rebelettes in 1975, solidified his status as a musical icon.

In 1987, Duane Eddy marked his musical resurgence with the release of his first album in two decades, featuring luminaries like Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and John Fogerty.

Tributes from fellow musicians poured in, with guitar virtuoso Joe Bonamassa hailing Eddy as a true pioneer and legend, while Fleetwood Mac’s Mick Fleetwood lauded his multifaceted talents and enduring legacy in music.

The passing of Duane Eddy leaves a profound void in the music world, but his innovative sound and timeless artistry will continue to inspire generations to come.

Eddy is survived by his wife Deed, four children, five grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.