Duane Eddy, 1938-2024 – the guitar world pays tribute

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.