Francis `` Franny '' Beecher ( September 29 , 1921 -- February 24 , 2014 ) , also known as Frank Beecher , was the lead guitarist for Bill Haley & His Comets from 1954 to 1962 , and is best remembered for his innovative guitar solos combining elements of country music and jazz .
Francis `` Franny '' Beecher ( September 29 , 1921 -- February 24 , 2014 ) , also known as Frank Beecher , was an American country , jazz , and rock musician . He was the lead guitarist for Bill Haley & His Comets from 1954 to 1962 .