Biographical Overview & Key Facts

Subject:

Charlie Christian

Role / Field:

Pioneering electric jazz guitarist, credited with developing the lead guitar role.

Born:

1916-07-29

Died:

1942-03-02

Century / Era:

1916s Historical Era

Database Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Wikipedia CC BY-SA 4.0

Origins & Early Life

Charles Henry Christian (July 29, 1916 – March 2, 1942) was an American swing and jazz guitarist. He was among the first electric guitarists and was a key figure in the development of bebop and cool jazz. He gained national exposure as a member of the Benny Goodman Sextet and Orchestra from August 1939 to June 1941. His single-string technique, combined with early adoption of the electric guitar, helped bring the guitar out of the rhythm section and into the forefront as a solo instrument.

Pivotal Works & Achievements

For this, he is often credited with pioneering the development of the lead guitar role. Christian was born on July 29, 1916, in Bonham, Texas. His family moved to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, when he was a young child. His parents were musicians. He had two brothers: Edward, born in 1906, and Clarence, born in 1911.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Edward, Clarence, and Charlie were all taught music by their father, Clarence Henry Christian. Clarence Henry was struck blind by fever, and in order to support the family, he and the boys worked as buskers, on what the Christians called "busts". He would have them lead him into the better neighborhoods, where they would perform for cash or goods. When Charles was old enough...

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Frequently Asked Questions about Charlie Christian