Jimmy Raney

Jimmy Raney had some of the most seamless, stunningly developed Bebop lines of any of jazz guitarist. Though electric hollow-body guitars traditionally have a mellow sound, Raney's pointed rhythms and perfect choice of notes gave his archtop an edge. As a sideman, Raney worked with Woody Herman and Artie Shaw, as well as recording some exceptional collaborations with Stan Getz. Seminal guitarist Wes Montgomery cited Raney as one of his primary influences -- both had an incredible fluidity and touch to their playing. Whether softly rendering a solo standard, or burning through a set of changes, Raney was one of the best.