Final answer:
Thomas Edison had the biggest influence on the recording industry, notably for his invention of the phonograph, which could record and replay sound. His approach to organized research in laboratories set a standard for industrial innovation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Out of the options given, Thomas Edison had the biggest influence on the recording industry. Known for his invention of the phonograph in 1877, this device was the first to be able to record and play back sound, revolutionizing the way music was consumed and shared. Edison's influence extended beyond this invention as he was a prolific inventor and a pioneer in the use of organized research laboratories for developing new technologies, which became a standard in industrial manufacturing. His legacy in sound recording is foundational to the recording industry today.
Regarding the invention of the radio, Guglielmo Marconi is credited as the person who most significantly contributed to the development and practical application of wireless telegraphy, which is the basis of radio communications.