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Lenny Breau was a renowned jazz guitarist born on August 5, 1941, in Auburn, Maine. He moved with his family to Winnipeg, Manitoba, during his childhood. As the son of country artists, he drew early inspiration from musicians like Merle Travis and Chet Atkins, focusing on traditional fingerpicking styles. Later, he was influenced by George Benson in terms of harmonics and approach. Breau developed a distinctive playing style that blended elements of country, classical, jazz, and flamenco, often within the same arrangements. He aimed to advance his techniques by using custom-made 7-string guitars. Throughout his career, Breau faced struggles with alcohol and drug abuse. He was found dead at the age of 43 in a swimming pool in Los Angeles, and his death remains an unsolved homicide. In 1997, he was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. The Berklee College of Music offers a course dedicated to his unique style, and he is recognized as one of the most innovative and influential guitarists in history. Notably, guitarist Pat Metheny considers Breau his most powerful influence.

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