Pat Metheny

Where They’re From: Lee’s Summit, MO

Who They Are: At once light and cerebral, guitarist Pat Metheny has been a distinct voice in jazz for the better part of five decades. Blending rock, funk, folk, and Latin styles into a heady stew with his signature hollow-body electric, Metheney has a versatile palette, made even moreso by the high-caliber peers he collaborates with, such as John Scofield, Charlie Haden, or the revolving cast of players in his Pat Metheny Group. He’s been honored scores of times at awards events, and is the only person to win Grammys in 10 categories.  

Years Active: 1974 – present 

Essential Albums: Pat Metheny Group (1978), 80/81 (1980)