“A true pioneer and bona fide legend”: Duane Eddy, 1938-2024 – the guitar world pays tribute

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Joe Bonamassa, Ritchie Blackmore, Nancy Sinatra, Mick Fleetwood and more have all come out to honor the music and memory the King of Twang, who has died aged 86

Duane Eddy playing a Gretsch electric guitar
(Image credit: Future)

Yesterday, it was announced that Duane Eddy – the hugely influential rock guitar pioneer whose music inspired George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen and countless others – had died at the age of 86.

In a statement quoted by Variety, Eddy’s reps said: “Duane inspired a generation of guitarists the world over with his unmistakeable signature 'Twang' sound.

“He was the first rock and roll guitar god, a truly humble and incredible human being. He will be sorely missed.”

The Grammy-winning guitarist had a huge catalog of hits to his name – including Rebel Rouser and Moovin’ and Groovin’ – and inspired generations of rock guitar players with a signature sound that defined an era.

Following news of Eddy’s death, and in recognition of the influence he had, the guitar world has come out to pay tribute to the music and memory of the King of Twang.

“I’m in shock,” wrote Dave Davies on social media. “Duane Eddy was one of my most important influences. He was so important in so many ways… I thought he’d live forever.” In a post of his own, Joe Bonamassa called the late guitarist “a true pioneer and bona fide legend.”

Mick Fleetwood, meanwhile, noted Eddy had “talents more than most knew,” while an especially emotional passage from Frank Sinatra’s daughter, Nancy, read: “I am heartbroken over his passing.”

Further tributes from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Ritchie Blackmore, Gretsch Guitars, and more can be found below.

Matt Owen
Matt Owen
Senior Staff Writer, GuitarWorld.com

Matt is a Senior Staff Writer, writing for Guitar World, Guitarist and Total Guitar. He has a Masters in the guitar, a degree in history, and has spent the last 16 years playing everything from blues and jazz to indie and pop. When he’s not combining his passion for writing and music during his day job, Matt records for a number of UK-based bands and songwriters as a session musician.