Leslie West, 1945-2020: the guitar world pays tribute

Leslie West
(Image credit: Stephen J. Boitano/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Following yesterday's news that Leslie West has passed away at the age of 75, tributes have come pouring in for the rock guitar icon.

"He was a sweetheart and an extremely funny man - I love you Leslie and will miss you dear friend. RIP," said Peter Frampton. West's close friend and Dean Guitars CEO Evan Rubinson wrote "to a man I loved more than most - the funniest, most honest guy I've ever met."

"Mississippi Queen is one of, if not the, greatest riffs of all time," said Geezer Butler. "He was the funniest guy you would ever meet... and one of the greatest rock guitarists ever," echoed Joe Bonamassa.

Tributes from Joe Satriani, Tom Morello, Dee Snider, Vernon Reid, Todd Kerns, Brian Ray, Slash, Nils Lofgren and more are below.

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Matt Owen
News Editor, GuitarWorld.com

Matt is the GuitarWorld.com News Editor, and has been writing and editing for the site for almost five years. He has a Masters in the guitar, a degree in history, and has spent the last 19 years playing everything from blues and jazz to indie and pop. During his GW career, he’s interviewed Peter Frampton, Zakk Wylde, Tosin Abasi, Matteo Mancuso and more, and has profiled the CEOs of Guitar Center and Fender.

When he’s not combining his passion for writing and music during his day job, Matt performs with indie rock duo Esme Emerson, and has previously opened for the likes of Ed Sheeran, Keane, Japanese House and Good Neighbours.