Link Wray

Link Wray

United States

"Wray's music crackles with a gritty intensity, propelled by relentless rhythms and a bold embrace of distortion that pushes against the edges of traditional rock."

Start here

Begin with Link Wray…

Be What You Want To

Be What You Want To

1972
Play this

Career Arc

Link Wray's discography from 1970 to 2009

1970 1989 2009
Listen to the Voices That... (1970) Link Wray (1971) Mordicai Jones (1971) Be What You Want To (1972) Beans and Fatback (1973) Stuck in Gear (1975) Robert Gordon with Link W... (1977) Fresh Fish Special (1978) Bullshot (1979) Missing Links, Vol. 1: Hi... (1990) Missing Links, Vol. 3: So... (1990) Missing Links, Vol. 2: Bi... (1990) Rumble! The Best of Link... (1993) Indian Child (1993) Walking Down a Street Cal... (1997) Shadowman (1997) Too Fast to Live…Too Youn... (1997) Missing Links, Vol. 4: St... (1997) Barbed Wire (2000) Live Fast, Love Hard (2009)
Link Wray stands as a pivotal figure in the evolution of rock music, credited with infusing raw energy and grit into the genre's soundscape.
Link Wray stands as a pivotal figure in the evolution of rock music, credited with infusing raw energy and grit into the genre's soundscape. His influence reverberates through generations, challenging conventional notions of melody and harmony while shaping the rebellious spirit that defines rock and roll. Wray’s pioneering use of distortion and power chords laid the groundwork for future guitarists, creating a distinct sonic identity that resonates in both garage rock and punk. Wray's approach to music was visceral and instinctive, often prioritizing feel over technical precision. He embraced a primal energy, using simple yet powerful riffs to communicate emotion and attitude. By incorporating elements like feedback and distortion into his guitar work, he opened up new avenues for expression within popular music, encouraging artists to explore their own sonic boundaries. Lyrically, Wray often focused on themes of rebellion, freedom, and youthful defiance, encapsulating the angst of his time. His storytelling is straightforward yet impactful, delivered with a raw honesty that feels both sincere and urgent. There’s an electric tension in his music that draws listeners in, inviting them to share in the experience of liberation through sound.

Full discography

Link Wray's albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

20 releases • 20 albums • 1970–2009
Type:

No releases match the current filters.

Like Link Wray? Try these next

Similar artists with their own starting points

Timeline

How their sound evolved over time

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Link Wray sound like?

Wray's music crackles with a gritty intensity, propelled by relentless rhythms and a bold embrace of distortion that pushes against the edges of traditional rock. Rooted in rock & roll. Start with Be What You Want To.

What is the best Link Wray album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Be What You Want To" (1972). It's the most representative of what makes Link Wray worth hearing.

Who is Link Wray for?

If you're into rock & roll, Link Wray is worth your time. Wray's music crackles with a gritty intensity, propelled by relentless rhythms and a bold embrace of distortion that pushes against the edges of traditional rock.

How many albums does Link Wray have?

Link Wray has 20 releases in their discography, including 20 albums.

Website Wikipedia