Many know Howard Stern as the controversial radio host and television personality, but did you know that he also has a passion for music? In fact, Stern is an accomplished guitarist and has even recorded and performed with famous musicians. In this article, we’ll delve into Stern’s love for the guitar and how it influences his life and career. So, grab your air guitar and let’s get started!

Early Interest in Music

As a child, Stern was always drawn to music. He was inspired by his father’s collection of jazz and rock albums and would often listen to them for hours on end. Stern’s parents also enrolled him in guitar lessons, but he quickly lost interest and moved on to other hobbies. However, his love for music never faded and he would often tune into radio stations to discover new sounds and artists.

The Turning Point: Meeting Les Paul

Stern’s passion for the guitar was ignited when he met the legendary guitarist and inventor, Les Paul. In an interview with Rolling Stone, Stern recalled how he was in awe of Paul’s talent and how he could create music with just his guitar and a tape recorder. Paul became a mentor and friend to Stern, and their shared love for the guitar solidified their bond.

The Influence of Rock Music

As a teenager, Stern became enthralled with rock music and would often attend concerts and local gigs. He was particularly drawn to the guitar-driven sound of bands like Led Zeppelin and The Who. Stern’s love for rock music influenced his guitar playing and he would often incorporate elements of the genre into his own style.

Stern’s Musical Collaborations

In the mid-1990s, Stern’s love for music led him to record his own album, ’50 Ways to Rank Your Mother’. The album featured humorous and satirical songs, with Stern showcasing his guitar skills on several tracks. He also collaborated with his idol, Les Paul, on the song ‘Flirtin’ With Disaster’, which appeared on the album ‘Les Paul & Friends’. This experience further solidified Stern’s love for music and inspired him to continue honing his guitar skills.

Impact on Stern’s Career

Music has not only been a passion for Stern but also a significant influence on his career. As a radio host, he has introduced his audience to new and diverse music, with a particular focus on showcasing up-and-coming artists. He has also used his platform to interview and feature renowned musicians, giving his audience an inside look into their creative process and music.

The Power of the Guitar

For Stern, playing the guitar is not just a hobby, but a form of therapy and escape. He has shared how he turns to his guitar to relieve stress and unwind after a long day. Stern also credits the guitar for helping him through challenging moments in his personal life. It has become a constant in his life, and he continues to be in awe of the instrument’s power and versatility.

Conclusion

As you can see, Howard Stern’s love for the guitar runs deep and has had a significant impact on his life and career. Whether it’s through his own music or showcasing the talents of others, Stern continues to share his passion for the guitar with the world. So, next time you tune in to his show, remember to appreciate the musical side of Howard Stern.

Interlink:
– “Did Howard Stern Really Record an Album?” on WhyIsExplained (https://whyisexplained.com/howard-stern-recorded-an-album/)
– “Discover the Story Behind ’50 Ways to Rank Your Mother’” on WhyIsExplained (https://whyisexplained.com/50-ways-to-rank-your-mother/)
– “Who is Les Paul and Why is He Relevant?” on WhyIsExplained (https://whyisexplained.com/who-is-les-paul/)

Outbound Links:
– Rolling Stone – https://www.rollingstone.com/
– Led Zeppelin – http://www.ledzeppelin.com/
– The Who – https://www.thewho.com/