Guitar Shorts, the blues great for more than six decades, known for his stage tricks and incredible guitar solos, died Wednesday in Los Angeles. He was 87 years old and his death was attributed by his representatives to a natural cause.
Born David William Carney, the bass guitarist (the name he was given in club branding) began his career in clubs in the South and Southwest, stopping at the famous Drop Inn in New Orleans where he led his band . He then traveled to Los Angeles and to a concert with Sam Cook, who played on the West Coast blues circuit.
During the trip he met his future wife Marsha in Seattle, Washington. She was the stepmother of Jimi Hendrix, who quickly became one of Guitar Shorty’s biggest fans. Her biography of her states that she introduced Hendrix to the Wah-Wah pedal and borrowed it when a youngster couldn’t afford it. Short married Marsha in 1962.
Playing guitar shorts was facilitated by his skills on stage. He performed backstage and did somersaults during his performance and wowed the fans with his tricks of him.
In addition to Cook, his resume includes a collaboration with Ray Charles. He also received a legendary appearance on the Gong Show, where he won first prize for his rendition of the song “They Call Me Guitar Shorty” and balanced on his head.
Guitar Shorty has recorded several albums for Alligator Records, including the 2019 release, I’m trying to find my way back. He hit the label several times along with other albums.
In 2002 he released Bo Diddley’s debut album. Hi Bo Big – Tribute!Performs the song “Don’t Let It Go (Hold On To What You Got)”.
Information on the survivors was not immediately released.
Source: Deadline
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