Charlie Christian

Charlie Christian
Christian performing at the Waldorf Astoria New York, October 1939
Background information
Birth nameCharles Henry Christian
Born(1916-07-29)July 29, 1916
Bonham, Texas, U.S.
DiedMarch 2, 1942(1942-03-02) (aged 25)
New York City, U.S.
Genres
Occupation(s)Musician
Instrument(s)Guitar
Years active1930s–1941

Charles Henry Christian (July 29, 1916 – March 2, 1942) was an American swing and jazz guitarist. He was among the first electric guitarists and was a key figure in the development of bebop and cool jazz. He gained national exposure as a member of the Benny Goodman Sextet and Orchestra from August 1939 to June 1941. His single-string technique, combined with amplification, helped bring the guitar out of the rhythm section and into the forefront as a solo instrument. For this, he is often credited with leading to the development of the lead guitar role in musical ensembles and bands.