Dick Dale was an American guitarist and songwriter, known as the "King of the Surf Guitar." Born on May 4, 1937, in Boston, Massachusetts, he became famous in the early 1960s for his fast, aggressive playing style that helped define the surf rock genre. His instrumental hit, "Misirlou," showcased his innovative use of reverb and rapid picking techniques, influencing many musicians. Dale's music often featured themes related to surfing and the beach culture of California. He collaborated with various artists and bands, including The Beach Boys and Jan and Dean, and his work has been featured in films like Pulp Fiction. He continued to perform and inspire new generations of guitarists until his passing in 2022.