Date of Birth: May 2, 1929
Zodiac Sign: Taurus
Date of Death: November 5, 2005
Biography
Fred Lincoln “Link” Wray Jr. was an American rock and roll guitarist, songwriter, and vocalist, who became known as one of the most influential guitarists of all time. Born in Dunn, North Carolina, Wray is best known for pioneering the use of distortion and the power chord, which laid the foundation for the modern rock sound. His most famous instrumental hit, “Rumble,” released in 1958, was so provocative that it was banned from the radio for fear it would incite violence. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, “Rumble” went on to become a seminal track that influenced countless musicians, from Pete Townshend to Jimmy Page. Wray’s career spanned several decades, during which he released numerous albums and singles. He was known not just for his innovative guitar techniques but also for his raw, powerful stage presence and his ability to cross genres, from rock and roll to surf rock, blues, and country. He continued to perform and record music until his death in 2005. Wray’s legacy is preserved in the countless musicians he influenced and in the lasting impact of his pioneering guitar work.
5 Interesting Facts about Link Wray
1. Link Wray was partially of Shawnee Native American descent, which influenced his music and personal style.
2. His song “Rumble” was one of the first instrumental tracks to utilize the power chord, a technique that became a cornerstone of rock music.
3. Despite being deaf in one ear due to a childhood illness, Wray’s keen musical ear remained remarkably sharp.
4. Wray’s innovative use of distortion involved poking holes in his amplifier’s speaker to achieve a raw, gritty sound.
5. He was inducted into the Native American Music Hall of Fame in 2002, recognizing his contributions as a Native American artist.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Link Wray
1. “God is playing my guitar, I am with God when I play.”
2. “My style of playing is very primitive, very childlike. But it’s very powerful.”
3. “I was the first musician to distort the sound of a guitar and make it sound like a saxophone.”
4. “I never wanted to be a star, I just wanted to play that guitar.”
5. “I just wanted to make the guitar sound like it wasn’t supposed to sound.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Link Wray’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million.
Children
Link Wray had three children: 1. Link Elvis Wray 2. Shayne Wray 3. Rhonda Wray
Relevant Links
1. [Link Wray Biography – AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/link-wray-mn0000246182/biography
3. [Link Wray’s Discography – Discogs](https://www.discogs.com/artist/258915-Link-Wray
