Charlie Christian

Charlie Christian (1916-1942) was an American guitarist, considered one of the pioneers of modern jazz and one of the most influential figures in the history of the guitar in jazz. He was one of the first guitarists to popularize the use of the electric guitar in jazz, forever changing the perception of the instrument within the genre.

Christian joined Benny Goodman's band in 1939, becoming a key member of the group and one of the first jazz guitarists to receive national recognition. His innovative style and ability to improvise with fluidity and complexity allowed him to stand out in the swing era, influencing generations of guitarists.

Despite his short life, as he died at the age of 25 from tuberculosis, his legacy as one of the great innovators of jazz and the guitar remains essential to modern jazz musicians and guitarists. His recordings with Goodman's band and other key jazz musicians are considered fundamental in the history of the genre.