Les Paul, the guitarist, entertainer and innovator who paved the way for rock n' roll, died Thursday at the age of 94. He died of complications from pneumonia at White Plains Hospital in New York, although he had been ill for some time.

Paul was popularly known for a series of hit songs recorded during the 1950s with wife Mary Ford, including "Vaya Con Dios" and "How High the Moon." Considered one of the finest pickers in America, and is often cited as a major influence on other guitarists.

Les Paul is survived by his three sons, a daughter, five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.