Wes Montgomery

John Leslie "Wes" Montgomery (March 6, 1923 – June 15, 1968) was an American jazz guitarist. Montgomery was known for his unusual technique of plucking the strings with the side of his thumb and for his extensive use of octaves, which gave him a distinctive sound. Montgomery often worked with his brothers Buddy (Charles F.) and Monk (William H.), as well as organist Melvin Rhyne. His recordings up to 1965 were oriented towards hard bop, soul jazz, and post bop, but around 1965 he began recording more pop-oriented instrumental albums that found mainstream success. His later guitar style influenced jazz fusion and smooth jazz.

Similar Artists

Tal Farlow

Charlie Christian

Wayne Shorter

John Scofield

Kenny Burrell

Sonny Rollins

Kurt Rosenwinkel

McCoy Tyner

Emily Remler

Herb Ellis

Pat Martino

Joe Pass

Bud Powell

Jimmy Smith

Jim Hall

Cannonball Adderley

Horace Silver

Grant Green

Barney Kessel

Wes Montgomery Trio