Carl Kress (October 20, 1907 – June 10, 1965) was a pioneering American jazz guitarist and banjo player, widely regarded as a founding father of jazz guitar alongside Eddie Lang. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Kress initially played piano before transitioning to the banjo and eventually the guitar. He began his professional career with the Paul Whiteman Orchestra in 1926, performing alongside notable musicians such as Bix Beiderbecke and Frankie Trumbauer.

In the late 1920s, Kress emerged as a prominent rhythm guitarist, known for his sophisticated chordal style and rich voicings. He recorded with various bands, including those of Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey, Miff Mole, and Red Nichols. In the 1930s, Kress became a central figure in jazz guitar duets, recording celebrated sessions with Eddie Lang and later with Dick McDonough.

Kress was also a part owner of the renowned Onyx Club on 52nd Street, a hub for jazz musicians. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, he maintained a low profile, working as a studio and radio guitarist in New York City. In the 1950s, he appeared on the Garry Moore television show, and in the early 1960s, he collaborated with Chicago guitarist George Barnes on a series of duet albums.

Kress was married to Helen Carroll, a singer who performed with Perry Como, Frank Sinatra, and Jo Stafford. The couple lived in Manhasset, New York. Carl Kress passed away from a heart attack in Reno, Nevada, in 1965 while on tour with George Barnes. His contributions to jazz guitar, particularly his chordal innovations and duet performances, have left a lasting legacy in the jazz world.