Gene Paul Seeks Clarity after the Demolition of His Father’s historic Studio
Gene Paul, the son of legendary guitarist Les Paul, is demanding transparency regarding the recent demolition of his father’s cherished home, workshop, and recording studio located in Mahwah, New Jersey.
The property at 78 Deerhaven Road was recently torn down after being sold to private developers for a reported $990,000. For music enthusiasts and historians alike, this site was not merely a residence; it served as a creative hub where Les Paul pioneered revolutionary recording techniques and made significant advancements that influenced the evolution of the electric guitar.
A Controversial Decision
The demolition has ignited a firestorm of debate, particularly following comments made by Michael Braunstein, the executive director of the Les Paul Foundation.He referred to the historic site as “just four walls” while promoting a new commercial studio in Los Angeles.This statement has drawn backlash from musicians,guitar historians,and members of Paul’s family,who believe that the Mahwah property was a vital part of music history.
(Image credit: Ben martin/Getty Images)
A heartfelt Plea
Gene Paul has openly criticized the foundation’s portrayal of the situation, expressing his sorrow over the loss of the family home and questioning the management of the property. “I’m not a lawyer; I’m a son,” he stated. “And right now, I’m a heartbroken son. A few days ago,I saw my father’s home,our family home,gutted. It made me sick. That house was not just where Les Paul lived. It was his workshop, his laboratory, and the embodiment of his dreams.”
The Mahwah location was instrumental in Les Paul’s groundbreaking work, where he developed innovative multitrack recording methods, designed guitar pickups, and recorded television appearances alongside Mary Ford. Over the years, the workshop became a gathering place for iconic guitarists like Jimmy Page, Jeff Beck, and Eddie Van Halen, who sought Les’s insights on music and technology.
Family Concerns and Legacy Issues
In a Facebook post dated August 25, Gene Paul elaborated on how the property transitioned from family ownership to the Les Paul Foundation. “When my dad passed away, control of the Les Paul Foundation and everything related to his estate, including his finances and royalties, did not transfer to me or our family. We found ourselves on the outside looking in,” he explained.
“Michael Braunstein, who oversees the Foundation, took charge of everything, and the family was never invited to participate in board discussions or consulted about matters concerning my father’s estate, finances, or legacy. We have never been satisfied with this arrangement.”
questions About the Future
Gene Paul also expressed frustration over the lack of communication regarding the demolition. He stated that the family received no prior notice and was not allowed to enter the house before it was razed. A statement from the Les Paul Legacy Group indicated that efforts were made at the last minute to salvage historically significant items, including handwritten notes and workbenches, which were reportedly found in rooms that had suffered from water damage and mold due to alleged neglect by the foundation.
Moreover, Gene is questioning the fate of the $990,000 proceeds from the sale of the property.”What happens to that money?” he asked. “My father had children and a family.Was that ever taken into account? Nobody consulted us about it. And now that the house is gone, where is the past marker at the entrance to Deerhaven Road to inform future generations that les Paul lived here? I believe my father’s family, friends, fans, and everyone influenced by his work deserve answers.”
