Rock'n'roll pioneer and 'Titan of Twang' Duane Eddy dead at 86

Rock'n'roll pioneer and 'Titan of Twang' Duane Eddy dead at 86
Rock and roll icon Duane Eddy, known affectionately as the 'Titan of Twang,' has passed away at the age of 86. Eddy, renowned for chart-toppers like "Rebel-Rouser" and "Peter Gunn," succumbed to cancer on Tuesday at Williamson Health Hospital in Franklin, Tennessee, as confirmed by a statement from his family.
Eddy's unique guitar style, characterized by its unmistakable "Twang," left an indelible mark on generations of musicians worldwide. Born in New York in 1938, Eddy pioneered a technique of playing lead parts on the lower strings of his guitar, crafting a sound that resonated deeply with fans.
His influential contributions to instrumental rock'n'roll inspired countless aspiring guitarists, from household names like Jimmy Page and Mark Knopfler to Brian May and beyond. Reflecting on his iconic melodies, Eddy once remarked on their simplicity, noting how they empowered budding musicians to pick up a guitar and play.
In addition to his musical legacy, Eddy ventured into acting, appearing in several Hollywood films, including "Thunder Of Drums" and "The Savage Seven." He was posthumously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, with Foreigner's Mick Jones praising his groundbreaking sound during the induction ceremony.
Throughout his illustrious career, Eddy continued to captivate audiences, collaborating with artists like Peter Frampton and Vince Gill. His final album, "Road Trip," released in 2011, received widespread acclaim and showcased his enduring talent.
Duane Eddy's influence transcended genres, leaving an indelible imprint on both country and rock'n'roll music. As Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, aptly summarized, Eddy's electric guitar was a force unto itself, shaping the sound of countless artists and cementing his legacy in music history.