You may not have ever heard a single Bo Diddley song but if you were a fan of rock’n’roll while growing up, you grew up with Bo Diddley.
Diddley influenced scores of rock’n’roll musicians with his famous “Bo Diddley Beat”, a driving, staccato, rumba-like beat that he developed while trying to play Gene Autry’s “(I’ve Got Spurs That) Jingle, Jangle, Jingle”.
The Who’s “Magic Bus”, Guns N’ Roses “Mr. Brownstone”, Bow Wow Wow's "I Want Candy", David Bowie’s “Panic in Detroit”, U2’s “Desire”, Elvis’ “His Latest Flame” (which is covered by the Smiths in the opening of "Rusholme Ruffians" on their live LP, "Rank") and Buddy Holly’s “Not Fade Away” (also done by the Stones) are just a handful of songs that contained the Bo Diddley Beat. And any band worth their salt would've performed "Who Do You Love?" live, as well.
Bo Diddley passed away today of heart failure at his home in Archer, Florida. He was 79.
His quirky persona, trademark black hat, black glasses his rectangular-shaped Gretsch guitar will all be missed.
Bo Diddley, R.I.P.
Monday, June 2, 2008
You Know the Beat, You Knew the Man
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3 comments:
Perhaps George Thorogood was too close to immitation to be included in the provided list, but his cover and emulation of Bo Diddley's work rejuvinated the sound in it's more original form decades later.
'Dawg, you're right. It wasn't a concious decision to leave him off the list... he's such an obvious disciple of the Diddley sound.
Also, The Doors' cover of "Who Do You Love" off of "Absolutely Live" is phenomenal.
And around the corner an ice wagon flew - a bump was hit - Lawd, somebody screamed - you shoulda heard just what I seen.
Agreed,
'Dawg
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