Jimmy Raney, born James Elbert Raney on August 20, 1927, in Louisville, Kentucky, was a prominent American jazz guitarist known for his influential work in the postwar jazz scene. He began playing guitar at the age of 10, inspired by his grandmother who played the ukulele. Raney's early musical education included studying with classical teacher A.J. Giancola and jazz guitarist Hayden Causey, who recommended him for the Jerry Wald Band in 1944, marking his first professional engagement in New York City.

Raney's career took off in the early 1950s when he joined the Red Norvo trio and worked with saxophonist Stan Getz, producing acclaimed recordings that highlighted his advanced bebop style. His work with Getz, particularly on the Verve and Roost labels, is considered a pinnacle of his career. Raney was celebrated for his complex, melodic passages and innovative guitar techniques, drawing inspiration from bebop pioneers like Charlie Christian.

Throughout his career, Raney collaborated with notable musicians such as Artie Shaw, Woody Herman, Buddy DeFranco, and Bob Brookmeyer. Despite facing personal challenges, including struggles with alcoholism and Ménière's disease, which led to near deafness, Raney continued to perform and record, even collaborating with his son Doug Raney, also a guitarist.

Raney's contributions to jazz guitar were recognized with multiple accolades, including winning the DownBeat Critics' Poll for guitar in 1954 and 1955. He passed away from heart failure on May 10, 1995, in Louisville, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most gifted and influential jazz guitarists of his time.