Rock legend Les Paul dies

The man who created the sound of rock has passed awayÂ…

09:48 14 August 2009

Guitar legend Les Paul, the man who developed the first solidbody electric guitar, has died aged 94.

Paul, known as the father of the electric guitar, passed away after battling pneumonia in hospital, according to Gibson - the firm that sold his instrument.

Former Gun N' Roses guitarist Slash paid tribute to the pioneer, saying in a statement:  "He was an exceptionally brilliant man, musician, inventor, mentor and friend."

Paul and his wife, singer Mary Ford, had 11 No 1s in the USA during the 50s, but he will be best remembered for his pioneering guitar design which became known as the Gibson Les Paul.

The design first went on sale in 1952 and is thought to have contributed to the birth of rock.

Stars such as Eric Clapton and Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page, used the Les Pauls in much of their music.