20-05-2025
Classic Rock Legend, 81, Has Exciting Career News
Steve Miller has been a powerful force of rock for decades, with hits like 'The Joker,' 'Take the Money and Run,' and 'Fly Like an Eagle.'
His legacy will be celebrated when he receives the Les Paul Spirit Award.
Named after Les Paul, the guitarist and designer who pioneered the solid-body electric guitar, the Les Paul Spirit Award is given to someone who 'exemplifies the spirit of the late, great Les Paul through innovation, engineering, technology and/or music,' according to a press release.
'Not only is he an extraordinary talent and a wonderful friend of the Les Paul Foundation, Steve holds the very distinct title of being Les' godson,' said Michael Braunstein, Executive Director of The Les Paul Foundation.
'They had a very unique relationship, which Les cherished," he added. "If anyone understands the 'spirit' of Les Paul, it's Steve.'
Les and Steve's connection began when Miller's parents attended performances by Les Paul and his then-wife Mary Ford in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Steve's parents introduced him to Les, who then gave Miller his first informal guitar lessons.
The connection between Steve and Les continued throughout the decades. Miller would join Paul on stage for the latter's 90th birthday concert in New York City.
'If Les were still alive today, Steve and he would be jamming at his house regularly,' added Michael Braunstein. 'I am personally thrilled to be able to present Steve with this award because I know he exemplifies everything Les was about and wanted to accomplish. I want to also thank the Gibson Gives Foundation for partnering with us on this exciting annual award and for everything they do to keep Les' name alive.' (Les Paul died in 2009 at age 94.)
Steve Miller is a classic rock legend. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2016 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2022. His album, Fly Like an Eagle, was recently inducted into the Library of Congress's National Recording Registry. And a new generation was introduced to Steve Miller's music when sampled 'Abracadabra' for his recent hit, 'Houdini.'
The Les Paul Spirit Award ceremony takes place on June 9 (Les Paul's 100th birthday!) at the Gibson Garage Nashville. In addition to the award, a grant from the Les Paul Foundation will be made to the charity of Steve Miller's choice.
