Sad news today. The Lounge may be a little haven from the world for us but occasionally we have to stop and take note of what’s going on outside. Today it’s the passing of Les Paul.

Although he will likely be remembered longest and best for the guitar of his namesake, Les Paul contributed a lot more than his name to pop music. His early innovation with recording technology made many techniques still used today possible. Over dubbing and multitrack recordings can be traced back to his work with reel to reel recorders in the 1940’s and 1950’s. His work landed him in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988 which was preceded by his induction into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

But it’s undeniable that his legacy will be that guitar.

So let’s all take a moment, raise our glasses and drink a toast to the great Les Paul. Rest in peace, friend.