Surf Guitar Legend Dick Dale Dies at 81

Electric guitar pioneer Dick Dale died Saturday night at age 81.

Despite a number of health challenges over the decades, including diabetes and kidney disease, Dale maintain a steady touring schedule up until the end of his life.

Dale's death was confirmed by his former drummer, Dusty Watson. No cause of death has been revealed.

Dale cemented his legend status and became a pop star in the 1960s with his reverb-laden instrumental "Misirlou" (Egyptian Girl)," which became the most famous tune of the surf rock era.

One of the first artists to road test a Fender Stratocaster, Dale collaborated often over the years with Leo Fender on new instrument and amplifier designs, helping push the instrument forward and pave the way for modern players.

In 2015, Dale proclaimed that he "can't stop touring because I will die, Physically and literally, I will die," he told the Pittsburgh City Paper.

Photo: Getty Images


Sponsored Content

Sponsored Content