My introduction to Les Paul was typical of my age group. One of my guitar heroes, Slash, is known for playing Les Paul guitars. At some point my dad told me that the guitar was named for its creator. We went to the library, this was before the internet and Youtube was likely something you’d only find in Porno store, and checked out a couple of his records. That’s right, records. I first heard Les Paul like many of his fans did, on vinyl. I didn’t know what to make of what I heard but I liked it and listen to them several times before returning them to the library. As I grew up I learned just how much he influenced the music I loved and the industry that helped create it.
We made our way to our seats in the Pabst Theater and the excitement grew. We were way up in the seating but even then we had great seats and could see very well. The lights dimmed and the crowd roared and Mr. Paul came out, got in his chair and blew my mind! I have seen countless times footage of people crying hysterically whilst their favorite musical group was performing and never really understood it. I still don’t. I will tell you, and I am sharing a very personal moment with you friends, throughout the first set I was continuously plagued with a lump in my throat and a blur to my vision. I can’t explain why I was as moved as I was but it seemed like I was touched by greatness and gifted with a sense of joy the likes of which I really have never felt before. Maybe it was seeing a legend, or hearing a 93 year old man play with a love for music that flowed from fingers shaped like the roots of an ancient bonsai tree, or it could have been the smile on his face, a smile that cold warm the soul in the heart of the coldest winter. I think it was this; I was in a large room filled with happy people all focused on one thing; music.
As we left that night, I was buzzing slightly from head to toe. We were walking back toward Mel’s car when I noticed that one of the buildings near the theater had its windows filled with colored plastic and that when seen at the right angle created the shape of a Les Paul guitar. I was the first one on the side walk to notice it and my exclamation, although maybe not as polite as was called for, drew the attention of many others in the area and soon cell phones and cameras were flashing away.
I am so entirely thankful to my sweet Mel for giving me memories I will cherish forever. So I offer this suggestion, in Mr. Paul’s memory, choose some of your favorite songs and listen to them and enjoy them with your whole self. I believe that is what he would want.
I solute you Les Paul.
Thank You
