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Young Musicians On Les Paul: "He's The Man"
By Michael George  - TMJ4 - Tue, Aug 25, 2009


MILWAUKEE - Les Paul's inventions had a huge influence on rock and roll, pop, and jazz music. At his public memorial at Discovery World on Friday, it was clear that he is still influencing a younger generation of musicians.

Anyone who knows guitars knows Les Paul. He gave rock and roll its distinctive sound with inventions like the solid-body electric guitar and multi-track recording.

"A lot of people, even if they don't realize they were influenced by him, they are. If you pick up a guitar or record in the studio, or even just listen to music, you're influenced by Les Paul," said fan Todd Beebe.

Les was known as the "Wizard of Waukesha." On Friday, at his public memorial, hundreds of fans remembered the local legend. But there were also many younger fans here to pay their respects.

Seventeen-year-old guitarist Alec Smiltneek explained, "He's like, the one who started it all. He's the man," Smiltneek said.

Thirteen-year-old Annie Vipond and her family got to see Les Paul in concert. He even took the time to meet her after the show. "He was really, really nice, and he was really funny during the concert, also," Vipond said.

Les Paul may be gone. But his legacy to young musicians is timeless.

"From hearing about this exhibit, I've learned a lot more. I wish I would've known him more when he was still living," Smiltneek said.

That's what made Les Paul one of a kind. You won't find many guys who are still cool at the age of 94.