Lawrence Pitilli, St. John’s University Title: Why Eddie Cochran Matters Legend is a word that often leads us to a false sense of admiration for those bestowed with such a description. There are, however, individuals who truly embody all that the word connotes and defines. Eddie Cochran was one of those individuals who, years after his untimely death, continue to bring that concept of legend to life. This paper/presentation will explore this rock and roll pioneer’s extraordinary life of just twenty two years in relation to three concepts: rock and roll practitioner, visionary, and contrarian. He was a multi-instrumentalist focusing his performance energies on the guitar. He is heralded as one of the all time greats on that instrument.He was also one of the very few singers to write his own material which included such 1950s hits as “Summertime Blues,” “Twenty Floor Rock,” and “Something Else.” In addition, he also produced or coproduced many of his records and, in doing so, was a pioneer in overdubbing the vocal and instrumental tracks.His influence is far reaching as he has touched the musical lives of many performers from the Beatles to Joan Jett to Bruce Springsteen. In fact, Paul McCartney auditioned for and impressed a very young John Lennon with his rendition of “Twent Floor Rock.” gaing membership in the Quarrymen. Yes, Eddie Cochran has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Yet, simply stated, that is not enough recognition for someone who was metaphorically light years ahead of their time.Thus,an exploration of the concepts of legend in conjunction with practitioner, visionary, and contrarian is well due on his part.
About the presenterLawrence Pitilli
Lawrence Pitilli is an Associate Professor of Speech.He is the author of Doo -Wop Acappella: A Story of Street Corners, Echoes, and Three-Part Harmonies, published by Rowman & Littlefield.