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Les Paul: The "Thomas Edison of Music"

Paul's 80th birthday is celebrated by featuring our 1992 interview with him. He's spent his life playing guitar, and invented the solid body electric guitar, overdubbing, reverb, and multitracking inventions that helped make rock and roll possible. Paul himself has stuck to jazz and more middle of the road pop. (Rebroadcast)

21:35
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Other segments from the episode on June 9, 1995

Fresh Air with Terry Gross, June 9, 1995: Interview with Les Paul; Interview with Bob Mould; Review of the film "Congo."
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16:06

Singer, Songwriter and Guitarist Bob Mould

Mould is one of the most influential musicians in alternative rock. With his first band “Husker Du,” he created a loud, fast and furious guitar sound. It set the stage for what later became known as “grunge rock.” His guitar playing, singing and song writing are now showcased with his band “Sugar.” The band has a new CD scheduled for release next month by Rykodisc. This interview was recorded last year after the release of a Sugar CD ironically titled “File Under Easy Listening." (Rebroadcast)

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21:53

Musician and Inventor Les Paul.

Musician and inventor Les Paul. Paul shaped much of the sound of rock and roll. He invented the electric pickup, the device that made the electric guitar possible, he made the first multi-track recorder, and his innovations established the recording studio itself as a legitimate musical instrument. Gibson has sold guitars designed by Les Paul since the early 50s, vintage models are now worth thousands of dollars. Paul also had many top 40 hits in the 50s and his own TV show.

Musician and inventor Les Paul

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