Jimmy Page

Mike Battle invented the Echoplex, the pioneering electric effects device, which played a vital role in the early development of the rock and roll sound. The Echoplex was famously used by Sun Records founder Sam Phillips who used the echo effect on several of Elvis Presley’s first recordings (“Blue Moon” and “Mystery Train” showcase this sound beautifully). Over the years Jimmy Page used the Echoplex to create counter rhythms and country icon Chet Atkins recorded a unique slapback using the device. In the 1990s, Mr. Battle developed an echo device based on digital sound and electr

Duane Eddy has profoundly influenced generations of guitarists and helped establish instrumental songs as viable hits in popular music. Beginning in the late 1950s, Duane recorded numerous hit records that defined the era, including iconic tracks like “Rebel Rouser” and “Boss Guitar.” His distinctive driving bass lines inspired countless musicians, including legends like John Lennon and Jimmy Page, to pick up the guitar during rock and roll's heyday. Beyond his solo success, Duane became a highly sought-after studio musician and continued to record and perform until his passing in

Gary Stewart Hurst is known around the industry as “Gary the Fuzzman” for being the inventor of the Tone Bender fuzz pedal, which he began producing in the 1960s. Jeff Beck and Jimmy Page started using Gary’s Tone Benders in 1965 and soon demand for his fuzz pedals came in from around the world.

Mike Ladd was one of the first music retailers in the United States to provide custom-made guitars. He had three locations in Memphis, the last of which was right across the street from Graceland, Elvis Presley’s famed mansion. In fact, Mike made a custom guitar for Elvis, along with many other famous clients such as Billy Gibbons and Jimmy Page. His guitar building was an influence on several other retailers as well as St. Blues Guitars in Memphis.  

Mitch Colby is an amplifier designer, industry executive, and tone expert whose career has spanned more than four decades at the highest levels of the music products industry. Beginning his career in the late 1970s, Mitch worked with Unicord, the U.S. distributor for Korg and Marshall, where he quickly became deeply involved in guitar products, marketing, and artist relations. Over time, he rose to Vice President of Guitar Products, helping guide the U.S. presence of Marshall while collaborating closely with teams in the U.K. on amplifier development and strategy.

Neal Preston recounted a special photograph he took while on tour with Led Zeppelin in the 1970s. The image captured Jimmy Page playing guitar as stage smoke was raising and the iconic musician looked right into Neal’s camera lens. It was one of a dozen stories Neal provided during his NAMM Oral History interview, which took place during the Anaheim trade show in 2018.