Most Influential American Musician of All Time?


Who do you regard as the most influential (i.e., musically, not necessarily commercially) American musician of all time across all genres?

The more I learn about Louis Armstrong, the more I am persuaded that he deserves that honor.
jeffreybowman2k
Bill Monroe - perhaps the only undisputed creator of a genre of music and who is in the bluegrass, country and rock n roll halls of fame. Honorable mentions - Jimmie Rodgers and Les Paul.
Here is how I would break it down:

Country: The Carter Family
Folk/Rock: Dylan
Jazz: Armstrong
Classical: Solti
Frank Zappa was the most gifted musician in the last 100 years, maybe more. He wrote and played music that very very few people would ever attempt, let alone do a credible job. RIP Frank...