Ellas Bates McDaniel
(December 30, 1928 – June 2, 2008),
known professionally as
Bo Diddley,
was an American
guitarist and singer
who played a key role
in the transition from
the blues to
rock and roll.
He influenced many artists,
including
Buddy Holly,
The Beatles,
The Rolling Stones,
the Animals,
George Thorogood,
Syd Barrett,
Tom Petty,
and
The Clash.
His use of African rhythms
and a signature beat,
a simple five-accent
hambone rhythm,
is a cornerstone of
hip hop, rock,
and pop music.
In recognition of
his achievements,
he was inducted into
the Rock and Roll
Hall of Fame
in 1987,
the Blues
Hall of Fame
in 2003,
and the
Rhythm and Blues
Music Hall of Fame
in 2017.
He received a
Lifetime Achievement Award
from the Rhythm
and Blues Foundation
and the Grammy
Lifetime Achievement Award.
Diddley is also recognized
for his technical innovations,
including his use of
tremolo and reverb
effects to enhance
the sound
of his distinctive
rectangular guitars.
