Al Di Meola

New Jersey native Al Di Meola is a jazz fusion guitarist who is renowned for his Latin-influenced style and technical prowess. With the release of his debut solo album Land of the Midnight Sun, in 1976, he established his virtuosic mastery of the guitar through his quick-fired solos and complex compositions. As he continued to pull inspiration from a number of sources, from Mediterranean music to flamenco, he crafted albums such as 1977's Elegant Gypsy to 1980's Splendido Hotel, which went on to influence both jazz and rock musicians alike. In addition to his solo material, Di Meola continues to push the boundaries of music as the leader of his acoustic group World Synfonia, and through his various collaborations with artists including bassist Stanley Clarke, guitarist John McLaughlin and violinist Jean-Luc Ponty.