Jerry Cole

Jerry Cole, born Jerald Edward Kolbrak on September 23, 1939, was an influential American guitarist and session musician who made significant contributions to the music industry. Here are some facts about Jerry Cole:

1. Versatile Session Musician: Jerry Cole was a highly versatile musician who worked across a wide range of musical genres, including rock and roll, surf rock, pop, country, and psychedelic music. He was known for his exceptional guitar skills and ability to adapt to various styles, making him a sought-after session musician in the 1960s and 1970s. Cole's versatility allowed him to collaborate with numerous artists and bands, contributing his distinctive guitar sound to countless recordings.

2. Member of The Wrecking Crew: Jerry Cole was a prominent member of The Wrecking Crew, a group of elite session musicians based in Los Angeles who played on thousands of recordings for various artists and bands. As part of The Wrecking Crew, Cole lent his talents to numerous hit songs and albums across different genres, including iconic tracks by artists such as The Beach Boys, The Byrds, The Monkees, and Frank Sinatra. His contributions helped shape the sound of popular music during the 1960s and beyond.

3. Surf Guitar Pioneer: Jerry Cole was a pioneer of the surf rock genre, contributing his distinctive guitar sound to many classic surf rock recordings. He was a member of several influential surf rock bands, including The Champs, The Bel-Airs, and The Surfaris. Cole's energetic guitar playing and catchy riffs became synonymous with the surf rock sound, influencing generations of guitarists and shaping the development of the genre.

4. Solo Career and Film Work: In addition to his session work and collaborations, Jerry Cole also released solo albums and pursued work in film and television. He recorded several instrumental albums showcasing his guitar prowess, including "Hot Rod Dance Party" (1965) and "Outer Limits" (1964). Cole also composed and performed music for various films and television shows, contributing to the soundtracks of movies such as "The Wild Angels" (1966) and "The Green Slime" (1968).

5. Legacy and Influence: Jerry Cole's contributions to the music industry as a session musician, guitarist, and pioneer of surf rock have left an indelible mark on popular music. His innovative guitar playing and versatile approach to music continue to inspire musicians and fans alike, earning him a lasting legacy as one of the most influential figures in rock and roll history. Cole's impact on the development of surf rock and his work as a session musician with The Wrecking Crew have cemented his place in music history.