Les Paul: June 9, 1915 - August 13, 2009

Les Paul, the most influential maker of music and muscial instruments, died today at the age of 93 of complications of pneumonia.

Starting out at 13 playing in a country band, Les Paul played with and inspired the nation's top jazz and popular musicians, invented the solid- body guitar, and was the kind of musician that every other musician would like to play with. He just enjoyed playing his instrument.

For a full obituary, which includes a video link, click on this New York Times story.