Rock’n’roll pioneer Duane Eddy, best known for hits Peter Gunn and Rebel-Rouser, has died aged 86.
Born in 1938, Eddy would soon become renowned for producing this “twangy” sound on the guitar, which saw him play lead parts on low strings of his instrument.
The musician later released tracks Rebel Rouser and Peter Gunn in 1958 and 1959 respectively.
“incredible human being”
Duane Eddy’s death was confirmed by his family, who released this statement, revealing that Eddy died from cancer at the Williamson Health Hospital in Franklin, Tennessee.
“Duane inspired a generation of guitarists the world over with his unmistakable signature ‘Twang’ sound,” statement read. “He was the first rock and roll guitar god, a truly humble and incredible human being. He will be sorely missed”.
Following the British invasion of the US, Duane Eddy recorded less frequently.
However, he soon found success as a Hollywood actor, featuring in Thunder Of Drums, Because They’re Young, The Wild Westerners and the outlaw biker exploitation movie The Savage Seven.
In 1994, Duane Eddy was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame by Mick Jones of Foreigner. Eddy’s inclusion was also lobbied by Creedance Clearwater Revival’s John Fogerty, as he could not make the ceremony.
(1/3) In Memoriam: 1994 Inductee Duane Eddy was a rock & roll guitar god who invented twang. He created a distinctive sound and recorded a string of instrumental hits in the late 1950s that proved hugely influential on countless musicians. Eddy’s reverberating, bass-heavy guitar pic.twitter.com/3YtiqIZnNo
— Rock Hall (@rockhall) May 1, 2024
Duane Eddy also played a set at the fabled Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, a concert celebrating his career. Peter Frampton, Vince Gill, and John Fogarty also featured.
On the night, Eddy was also presented with a proclamation by the mayor of Nashville, declaring him as the ‘Titan of Twang’.
The musician’s last album Road Trip, was released in 2011, which saw him collaborate with Pulp’s Richard Hawley.
Among those to pay tribute also include Nancy Sinatra, daughter of music icon Frank Sinatra, and Mick Fleetwood.
Duane Eddy and I were friends for nearly 60 years and I am heartbroken over his passing. Sending love and condolences to Deed and the family and their friends. Farewell, old friend, godspeed and stay cool. pic.twitter.com/IiqPk4abL9
— Nancy Sinatra (@NancySinatra) May 2, 2024
https://twitter.com/MickFleetwood/status/1785779817817796807
