Eddie Hazel

Original Funkadelic guitarist Eddie Hazel pioneered an innovative funk-metal sound in the early '70s, best exemplified on his classic instrumental jam "Maggot Brain." His mythological reputation arises from his brief, mysterious era of productivity, a shadowy three-album cycle capped by Maggot Brain that came to a close as Hazel's drug problems began to trouble him. Even though his notable accomplishments are few -- mostly the first three Funkadelic albums, a 1977 solo album, and some legendary live performances -- these accomplishments were highly influential, and at one time Hazel seemed a clear successor to the deceased Jimi Hendrix, one of the few Black guitar players who merged an acid rock approach with an R&B aesthetic.