Rest In Peace: Bo Diddley
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Bo Diddley, born in 1928 as Elias Otha Bates, became a pioneering and influential figure in the history of rock 'n' roll as he lead the transition from blues to a more hard-edged and rhythmic style of rock 'n' roll. Bo Diddley died June 2, 2008 at the age of 79. He was known for his trademark dark glasses, black hat and distinctive homemade rectangular guitar called "The Twang Machine." He was an inducted member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and he was awarded a lifetime achievement award at the Grammys in 1999. These were but a few of his many earned awards over the years.
Bo Diddley was given what would become his stage name in grammar school by his friends. There is, however, some dispute as to the origin of his name inasmuch as a "diddley bow" is a one-stringed instrument used in playing traditional blues music. His first hit song, released in 1955, was called "Bo Diddley." He became known for the "Bo Diddley Beat" which can best be described as a rumba beat but more in the "hambone" style used by street musicians which involved the slapping and drumming of their arms, legs, chest and cheeks while singing chant-like rhymes. Although Bo Diddley was inspired to play the guitar after seeing John Lee Hooker, he actually developed his beat (also called a "shave and haircut" beat) while trying to play "I've Got Spurs That Jingle, Jangle, Jingle", a classic Gene Autry song.
Bo Diddley, throughout his storied career, continued to explore innovative and creative ways of playing his rectangular Gretsch guitar. Many other musicians adopted his beat at one time or another in their careers. Bo Diddley also was the first American musician to have a women in his band and one of the first to build a home recording studio. He was last heard live in 2005 and 2006 when he appeared at several events with the Johnnie Johnson Band. With more than 35 family members at his home on June 2, a gospel song was played for him after which he is said to have exclaimed "Wow!" – he then gave everybody a thumbs-up sign and silently passed away.
Bo Diddley, born in 1928 as Elias Otha Bates, became a pioneering and influential figure in the history of rock 'n' roll as he lead the transition from blues to a more hard-edged and rhythmic style of rock 'n' roll. Bo Diddley died June 2, 2008 at the age of 79. He was known for his trademark dark glasses, black hat and distinctive homemade rectangular guitar called "The Twang Machine." He was an inducted member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and he was awarded a lifetime achievement award at the Grammys in 1999. These were but a few of his many earned awards over the years.
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Bo Diddley, throughout his storied career, continued to explore innovative and creative ways of playing his rectangular Gretsch guitar. Many other musicians adopted his beat at one time or another in their careers. Bo Diddley also was the first American musician to have a women in his band and one of the first to build a home recording studio. He was last heard live in 2005 and 2006 when he appeared at several events with the Johnnie Johnson Band. With more than 35 family members at his home on June 2, a gospel song was played for him after which he is said to have exclaimed "Wow!" – he then gave everybody a thumbs-up sign and silently passed away.
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