Link Wray was an influential American rock and roll guitarist who primarily rose to prominence in the late 1950s. Known for his innovative and powerful style of guitar playing, Wray is often credited with pioneering the "power chord," a key element in genres such as rock and heavy metal. His 1958 instrumental hit "Rumble," characterized by distortion and a raw, gritty sound, was a major influence on many future rock musicians. Despite his lack of mainstream recognition, Wray's contributions to the development of rock music were significant, making him a seminal figure in the genre's history.