Noted for his eclectic and versatile guitar playing, he has collaborated with a wide range of artists, from Jackson Browne to Warren Zevon, and is known for his distinctive slide guitar work.
David Lindley, the American musician extraordinaire, is renowned for his unparalleled mastery of a staggering array of string instruments, earning him the moniker "maxi-instrumentalist" by Acoustic Guitar magazine. From the lap steel guitar to the oud, and from the violin to the charango, Lindley's sonic arsenal knew no bounds, making him a sought-after collaborator for an impressive roster of legendary musicians.
Born on March 21, 1944, in San Marino, California, Lindley was surrounded by the rich cultural heritage of his father's extensive collection of 78 rpm records, featuring Korean folk, Indian sitar, and Spanish classical guitar. This eclectic exposure sparked an early passion for music, leading Lindley to take up the violin at the tender age of three.
As he grew, so did his instrumental curiosity, with the baritone ukulele, banjo, and eventually, a multitude of other stringed instruments finding their way into his skilled hands. Lindley's proficiency earned him five Topanga Banjo-Fiddle Contest titles, paving the way for his future success.
Lindley co-founded the 1960s psychedelic band Kaleidoscope, a testament to his innovative spirit and boundless creativity. His work with this influential group set the stage for his later collaborations with iconic musicians, including Jackson Browne, Linda Ronstadt, Ry Cooder, Bonnie Raitt, Warren Zevon, Curtis Mayfield, and Dolly Parton.
On stage, Lindley was as much a visual spectacle as he was an aural delight. His flamboyant, garishly colored polyester shirts, paired with clashing pants, earned him the nickname "the Prince of Polyester." This sartorial flair added to his charismatic stage presence, making him a compelling performer in his own right.
Lindley's remarkable skillset extended to scoring and composing music for film, as well as working as a musical director for several touring artists. His adaptability and mastery of various instruments made him an indispensable asset in the music industry.
David Lindley's impact on the music world is immeasurable. As a pioneer of the lap steel guitar in rock music and a virtuoso of Hawaiian-style slide guitar blues, he expanded the sonic possibilities of his instruments, inspiring generations of musicians. His remarkable life's work serves as a testament to the power of creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong passion for music.
On March 3, 2023, the music world bid farewell to this exceptional artist, but his enduring legacy continues to enrich our cultural landscape. As we celebrate the life and accomplishments of David Lindley, we honor the boundless creativity, innovative spirit, and mesmerizing talent that made him a true original in the world of music.
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