Honoring Tony Bennett: A Timeless Voice That Resonated With The Strings Of Les Paul’s Guitar
It is with heavy hearts that we recognize the passing of the legendary Tony Bennett, whose artistry has touched generations and whose voice harmonized beautifully with the strumming of Les Paul’s guitar. Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto, crafted a legacy of timeless music, from his early hits like “Because of You” and “Rags to Riches,” to his collaborations with contemporary artists, reintroducing the depth of classic jazz and pop standards to a new generation. His 1952 performance with Les Paul on “Cold, Cold Heart” stands as a poignant testament to the enduring magic they created together.
The Inventor
Acclaimed as the “Father of Modern Music”, Les Paul is known for numerous inventions that changed both the individual lives of musicians and the mechanics of the music industry in the twentieth century. His influence is still profound, having been a pioneer in the development of the solid-body electric guitar as well as numerous techniques including multi-track recording, digital delay, reverb, and more.
The Musician
Les Paul’s technological wizardry and inventions transformed the music industry. His legacy as a consummate musician has had a global impact on countless artists from Paul McCartney, Eddie Van Halen, and Slash to Bing Crosby, Tony Bennett, and Chet Atkins. Les’ musical technique and virtuosic playing extended across all genres including jazz, country, R&B, and Rock. His multi-generational influence and contributions speak to his status as a legendary artist.
Education
Les Paul created the Les Paul Foundation in 1995 to extend his spirit of innovation through grants to educational organizations and institutions including, Little Kids Rock, Soulsville Foundation/Stax Music Academy, Notes for Notes, Guitars For Vets, and many others.
The Foundation
The Les Paul Foundation inspires innovative and creative thinking by sharing the legacy of Les Paul through support of music education, recording, innovation and medical research related to hearing. It’s also a great resource for anyone wanting to learn more about the Wizard of Waukesha. Click here to see the list of our grantees and to apply for grants.
Latest News
The Iridium in Times Square to Open “Les Paul Thru the Lens” Photo Exhibit with Special “All About Les” Event on Monday, October 7th
Exclusive One-Night Engagement Will Feature Q&A Session with Those Who Knew Les Best and Will Serve as the Launch of the Venue Hosting “Les Paul Thru the Lens” Exhibit, which is Making its New York City Debut on a “Les Paul Monday Night” New York, New York...
Les Paul Thru The Lens
Les Paul Thru The Lens Join us Monday, October 7th, for "An Evening About Les" - an exclusive event with Chris Lentz, Les Paul's longtime friend who chronicled Les' life and career through personal and up-close photographs, and Michael Braunstein, third-generation...
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to Host Les Paul Thru the Lens
For Immediate Release: The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to Host Les Paul Thru the Lens The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Will Exhibit the Traveling Gallery of Rare Photos Commemorating the Life of the Father of Modern Music and Exclusively Showcase Original...