Del Casher, Guitarist Who Invented the Wah-Wah Pedal, Dead at 88
Musician and inventor who played with artists like Elvis Presley, Gene Autry and Frank Zappa died October 1 after cancer battle
Del Casher, a guitarist and inventor who worked with some of the biggest names in music, has passed away at 88. His contributions to music go far beyond his impressive resume of collaborations - he invented the wah-wah pedal, an iconic effect that's been used by countless artists across genres. The wah-wah pedal's impact on music can't be overstated; it's a staple of rock, funk, and R&B, and has been used by everyone from Jimi Hendrix to Eric Clapton.
Casher's work with legendary artists like Elvis Presley, Gene Autry, and Frank Zappa speaks to his versatility and skill as a musician. He was a session musician and guitarist who could adapt to different styles and genres, and his playing work can be heard on many classic recordings. But it's his invention of the wah-wah pedal that will likely have the most lasting impact on music. The pedal was first introduced in the 1960s and quickly became a must-have effect for guitarists looking to add a new level of expression and emotion to their playing.
As the music industry continues to evolve, it's worth looking back at the contributions of pioneers like Del Casher. The wah-wah pedal remains a beloved effect, and its influence can be heard in many modern genres, from electronic music to hip-hop. To watch next: expect to see tributes and retrospectives of Casher's work in the coming weeks, as well as celebrations of his legacy and impact on music. Fans of classic rock and guitar music will likely be revisiting some of Casher's most famous collaborations and exploring the many recordings that feature his playing and invention.
Originally reported by rollingstone.com. MusicNewsletter adds analysis for culture, style & media readers.