Diddley, Bo (1928–2008)

US rhythm-and-blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter. His distinctive syncopated beat (‘Shave and a haircut, two bits’) became a rock staple; it can be heard in many of his classic songs, including ‘Bo Diddley’ (1955), ‘Who Do You Love?’ (1955), and ‘Mona’ (1956).

Bo Diddley, born in Mississippi, recorded for the Chess label in Chicago 1955–74. Muddy Waters had a hit with his song ‘Mannish Boy’ (also known as ‘I'm a Man’) in 1955. Relying more on distortion than technique, Bo Diddley's guitar style influenced generations of garage bands, and his lyrics were often humorous.