Lee Ranaldo

Former Sonic Youth Guitarist and Experimental Rock Artist

Lee Ranaldo is an American musician, singer-songwriter, guitarist, writer, and visual artist, best known as a co-founder of the alternative rock band Sonic Youth. Born on February 3, 1956, Ranaldo played a key role in the band's success with his experimental approach to guitar playing, which often involved using unorthodox tunings and preparing his instrument with objects like drumsticks and screwdrivers to alter its sound. Sonic Youth was formed in 1981 and quickly became a pivotal force in the New York underground music scene, influencing a generation of musicians with their blend of noise rock and avant-garde sensibilities.