Legendary musician and inventor Les Paul died on Thursday at the age of 94. Les Paul had been suffering from severe pneumonia and passed away at White Plains Hospital in New York Thursday morning. Les Paul was the creator of one of the world’s most famous guitar models, the Les Paul. He was also considered to be one of the world’s most accomplished electric guitarists.
Les Paul and former wife Mary Ford had 16 top ten hits during their career together. The couple divorced in 1964. Ford died from diabetes complications at the age of 53 in 1977.
“I don’t think any words can describe the man we know as Les Paul adequately. The English language does not contain words that can pay enough homage to someone like Les. As the ‘Father of the Electric Guitar’, he was not only one of the world’s greatest innovators but a legend who created, inspired and contributed to the success of musicians around the world,” said Dave Berryman, President of Gibson Guitar, said in a press statement.
“I have had the privilege to know and work with Les for many, many years and his passing has left a deep personal void. He was simply put – remarkable in every way. As a person, a musician, a friend, an inventor. He will be sorely missed by us all.”
AÂ private funeral will be held in New York for friends and family. A public memorial service will be announced at a future date.