Del Casher, the inventive guitarist and film and television composer who developed the wah-wah pedal, has died at the age of 88. His death occurred on Oct. 1, according to information obtained by TMZ.com.
Casher created the wah-wah pedal in 1967 while collaborating with Vox and the Thomas Organ Company. He adapted a transistorized mid-range booster circuit that had originally been designed for trumpets, a modification that would go on to shape the sound of generations of guitarists.
Beyond his work as an inventor, Casher enjoyed a prolific career in entertainment. He appeared on screen and played guitar alongside Elvis Presley in the film "Roustabout" and with Jerry Lewis in "The Patsy." He also composed music for more than a dozen television shows and films.
Casher was a member of the renowned studio recording unit known as the "Wrecking Crew," which provided backing music for legends including Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, and The Monkees.
Following his passing, a GoFundMe campaign has been established to support his widow, Eiko, as she navigates financial difficulties. Organizer Al Burg wrote on the fundraising page, "Eiko is now facing overwhelming financial and personal challenges at a time when she should be surrounded by peace, care, and stability. ... Tour donations will help Eiko pay down huge credit card debt and move into assisted living, where she can have safe housing and the increasing care she needs."
Casher was 88 years old at the time of his death.
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Ava Hart
Ava Hart is a pop culture junkie and loves to share what's happening in Hollywood and what trends are taking the world by storm.
