David Lindley, American guitarist, songwriter, and producer

David Perry Lindley: The Maxi-Instrumentalist

Born on March 21, 1944, David Perry Lindley stands as an iconic figure in American music, renowned for his extraordinary versatility and profound impact across various genres. More than just a musician, Lindley has been a sonic architect, founding his own acclaimed band, El Rayo-X, and lending his unique talents to a veritable who's who of music legends. His collaborations span the spectrum, gracing the recordings and live performances of artists like Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt, Warren Zevon, Curtis Mayfield, and even the incomparable Dolly Parton, showcasing an adaptability that is truly rare in the industry.

A Master of Instruments, A "Maxi-Instrumentalist"

What truly sets David Perry Lindley apart is his unparalleled command over an astonishing array of musical instruments. So vast and varied is his repertoire that Acoustic Guitar magazine coined a special term just for him, hailing him not merely as a multi-instrumentalist, but a "maxi-instrumentalist." The vast majority of his chosen instruments fall into the string family, where he demonstrates an almost encyclopedic knowledge and skill. From the familiar strum of acoustic and electric guitars to the deep resonance of upright and electric bass, and the distinctive twang of the banjo, Lindley's hands bring them all to life. His mastery extends to instruments such as the lap steel guitar, mandolin, and the Norwegian hardingfele, alongside the Mediterranean bouzouki and cittern. Further demonstrating his global reach, he effortlessly navigates the bağlama, gumbus, charango, cümbüş, oud, and the ethereal zither, each played with an authentic touch that speaks volumes of his dedication and passion.

A Diverse Musical Journey

Lindley's rich musical journey began early, as a founding member of the influential 1960s psychedelic rock band Kaleidoscope. This early experience set the stage for a career characterized by exploration and collaboration. Beyond his studio work and band leadership, David Perry Lindley has also taken on the crucial role of musical director for several touring artists, meticulously shaping the sound and performance experience. His talents weren't confined to the stage or recording booth; he has also occasionally ventured into the world of film, lending his distinctive ear to score and compose music that enhances cinematic narratives. Throughout his decades-long career, Lindley's unique sound and instrumental prowess have left an indelible mark on countless musical projects, solidifying his status as a true legend.

Frequently Asked Questions about David Perry Lindley

Who is David Perry Lindley?

David Perry Lindley is an acclaimed American musician, born March 21, 1944, widely recognized for his extraordinary mastery of a vast array of string instruments and his extensive collaborations with numerous high-profile artists.

What is he famous for?

Lindley is famous for his exceptional multi-instrumental skills, particularly with string instruments, which earned him the title of "maxi-instrumentalist." He's also known for founding the band El Rayo-X and for his significant contributions to the music of artists like Jackson Browne, Bonnie Raitt, and Dolly Parton.

What instruments does David Perry Lindley play?

He plays a remarkable variety of string instruments, including acoustic and electric guitars, upright and electric bass, banjo, lap steel guitar, mandolin, hardingfele, bouzouki, cittern, bağlama, gumbus, charango, cümbüş, oud, and zither, among others.

What bands was David Perry Lindley a part of?

He was a founding member of the 1960s band Kaleidoscope and later founded his own band, El Rayo-X.