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Cultural Heroes and One-of-a-Kinds: Musician and Inventor Les Paul.

Guitarist Les Paul. He's often been called the “Thomas Edison of music.” PAUL invented the solid body electric guitar, overdubbing, reverb, and multi-tracking inventions that helped make rock n roll possible. He himself has stuck to jazz, and a more middle of the road pop. In the 1950's he had several hits with his wife Mary Ford, including “How High the Moon,” “Vaya Con Dios,” and “Bye Bye Blues.” His Capitol recordings, several of his old radio shows from the late 40's and early 50's, and some of his commercial jingles are collected on a 4CD box set, called “Les Paul: The Legend and The Legacy.” (REBROADCAST from 1/17/92)

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Other segments from the episode on October 18, 1999

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, October 18, 1999: Interview with Les Paul; Commentary on Sam Phillips and Sun records; Interview with Sam Phillips.

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