Deaths on March 19

Paul Kossoff, English guitarist and songwriter (b. 1950)

Paul Francis Kossoff, an English blues rock guitarist whose brief but brilliant career left an indelible mark on the landscape of rock music, was born on September 14, 1950. His untimely passing on March 19, 1976, at the tender age of 25, silenced a voice that had already achieved legendary status. Primarily revered as the co-founder and lead guitarist for the iconic British rock band Free, Kossoff's distinctive style and soulful delivery earned him widespread critical acclaim and a lasting place in music history. So significant was his contribution that Rolling Stone magazine fittingly ranked him number 51 on their prestigious list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time."

Early Life and Formative Musical Years

Born in Hampstead, London, Paul Kossoff was the son of actor David Kossoff, giving him an early exposure to the arts. However, it was the raw power and emotion of the blues that truly captivated him. Picking up the guitar in his youth, Kossoff quickly developed a formidable talent, drawing inspiration from blues titans like Eric Clapton, Peter Green, and Mike Bloomfield. His dedication to mastering the instrument was evident, and by his late teens, he was already making waves in the vibrant London music scene, laying the groundwork for what would become one of the most influential blues rock bands of its era.

Free: A Defining Era in British Rock

The pivotal moment in Kossoff's career came in 1968 with the formation of Free. Alongside the extraordinary vocalist Paul Rodgers, bassist Andy Fraser, and drummer Simon Kirke, Kossoff created a sound that was both minimalist and intensely powerful. Signed to the then-emerging Island Records, Free quickly distinguished themselves with a stripped-down, visceral approach to blues rock, eschewing the prevalent progressive rock excesses of the time. Their sound was characterized by raw emotion, dynamic interplay, and, crucially, Kossoff's searing, expressive guitar work. While the band produced several acclaimed albums, their breakthrough came with the massive 1970 hit "All Right Now," a track that not only became an anthem for a generation but also cemented Kossoff’s status as a guitar hero. His playing on the song, with its iconic main riff and emotive solo, showcased his remarkable ability to convey profound feeling with relatively few notes, prioritizing tone and feel above all else.

Kossoff's Iconic Guitar Style

What set Paul Kossoff apart was his instantly recognizable guitar tone and his masterful use of vibrato. Often playing a Gibson Les Paul, he coaxed a thick, singing sustain from his instrument, characterized by a warmth and clarity that perfectly complemented Paul Rodgers' vocals. His vibrato, wide and deeply expressive, became his signature, allowing each note to breathe and resonate with soulful intensity. Kossoff wasn't a guitarist who relied on shredding or dazzling technical displays; instead, he was a craftsman of emotion, using space, dynamics, and the sheer purity of his sound to convey a profound blues sensibility. This profound connection to the blues, coupled with his innate melodicism, made him a truly unique voice in rock guitar.

Beyond Free: Later Ventures and Enduring Legacy

Following Free’s eventual disbandment, Kossoff embarked on several new projects. He released a critically acclaimed solo album, Back Street Crawler, in 1973, which further highlighted his abilities as a songwriter and instrumentalist. He then formed a new band, also named Back Street Crawler, continuing to explore his blues rock roots. However, throughout this period, Kossoff battled severe drug addiction, which tragically impacted his health and career. Despite these personal struggles, his musical output remained compelling, and his dedication to his craft never wavered. Though his life was cut short, Kossoff’s influence continued to resonate, inspiring countless guitarists with his raw honesty and deep blues feel. His contribution to British blues rock and his enduring ranking on lists like Rolling Stone's "100 Greatest Guitarists" underscore a legacy that far outlived his brief time in the spotlight.

FAQs About Paul Kossoff

Who was Paul Kossoff?

Paul Kossoff was an English blues rock guitarist, best known as the co-founder and lead guitarist of the legendary British rock band Free.

When was Paul Kossoff born and when did he pass away?

He was born on September 14, 1950, and tragically passed away on March 19, 1976, at the age of 25.

What band was Paul Kossoff famous for?

Paul Kossoff was most famous for his work with the band Free, particularly for their international hit "All Right Now."

What was Paul Kossoff's most famous song?

While Free had several notable tracks, "All Right Now" is undoubtedly his most famous and enduring song, featuring his iconic guitar riff and solo.

What was unique about Paul Kossoff's guitar style?

Kossoff was renowned for his soulful, expressive blues-rock guitar playing, characterized by his unique, wide vibrato, thick tone, and his ability to convey deep emotion with a minimalist, unhurried approach.

How highly was Paul Kossoff ranked among guitarists?

Rolling Stone magazine recognized his immense talent by ranking him number 51 on their list of the "100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time."

Did Paul Kossoff release any solo music?

Yes, he released a solo album titled Back Street Crawler in 1973 and also formed a band under the same name after Free disbanded.