1928–2014
Biography · Literature
Bo Diddley
1928–2008
United States
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Ellas Otha Bates (December 30, 1928 – June 2, 2008), known professionally as Bo Diddley, was an American guitarist, singer and songwriter who played a key role in the transition from the blues to rock and roll. He influenced many artists, including Buddy Holly, the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, the Animals, George Thorogood, Syd Barrett, Tom Petty, and the Clash. His use of African and Latin rhythms and a signature beat, a simple five-accent hambone rhythm, is a cornerstone of hip-hop, rock, and pop music.
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Wikipedia contributors — original record ↗
Biography text · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Source checked 2026-10-13
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1924–1987
1913–2008
