Barney Kessel

Barney Kessel
Background information
Born(1923-10-17)October 17, 1923
Muskogee, Oklahoma, U.S.
DiedMay 6, 2004(2004-05-06) (aged 80)
San Diego, California
GenresJazz, pop, R&B, rock
Occupation(s)Musician, composer
InstrumentGuitar
Years active1940s–1992
LabelsContemporary, Reprise, Black Lion, Concord Jazz, RCA Victor, Sonet, Savoy

Barney Kessel (October 17, 1923 – May 6, 2004) was an American jazz guitarist. Known in particular for his knowledge of chords and inversions and chord-based melodies, he was a member of many prominent jazz groups as well as a "first call" guitarist for studio, film, and television recording sessions. Kessel was a member of the group of session musicians informally known as the Wrecking Crew.