Bo Diddley at Gretsch Party in 2005

Legendary R&B king and long-time Gretsch friend, Bo Diddley, has passed away at the age of 79. With his rectangular Gretsch guitar and trademark "Bo Diddley Beat", he entertained and inspired the globe. His Ed Sullivan television debut aired way back in 1955. That was America's first look at a man whose unique rhythm and style would eventually serve as fuel for the Rock'n'Roll, Blues, and Psycodelic genres.

Born in McComb, Mississippi in 1929, Bo Diddley began his professional career in Chicago's south side in the early 1950's. His first recordings for Chess Records featured the re-worked demos of "I'm a Man" and "Bo Diddley". With it's raw sound and infectious syncopated guitar rhythm, "Bo Diddley", became an instant #1 R&B Hit. It was these historic sessions that helped launch a recording and performing legacy that continued into 2007. He has been inducted into both the Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame, and the Rock-A-Billy Hall Of Fame. More importantly, there's not a single living Rock-n-roller that does not revere Bo Diddley as a key inspiration.

For all his musical achievements he is best remembered as a warm-hearted performer and family man that always took time to engage and connect with his many fans. Rolling Stone named him as one of the "Greatest Artists Of All Time", we honor him as one of the founding fathers of Rhythm & Blues. His popularity and influence will live on.

"Who do we love?"...Bo Diddley.