Jimmy Smith was an American jazz musician and organist, widely considered one of the greatest Hammond B3 organ players of all time. Born in 1925 in Norristown, Pennsylvania, Smith began his musical career as a pianist before switching to the organ in the 1950s. He quickly gained a reputation as a virtuoso performer and innovator, blending jazz, blues, and gospel influences into a distinctive style that would go on to influence generations of musicians.
Throughout the 1950s and 60s, Smith recorded dozens of albums as both a bandleader and a sideman, collaborating with jazz greats like Wes Montgomery, Stanley Turrentine, and Lee Morgan. His 1965 album “Organ Grinder Swing” is considered a classic of the genre, featuring Smith’s trademark soulful playing and inventive improvisation.
In addition to his musical contributions, Smith was also a pioneer in the use of the Hammond B3 organ in jazz. He helped to popularize the instrument and develop new techniques for playing it, such as the use of the drawbars to create different tones and the addition of bass pedals for more complex chord progressions.
Jimmy Smith continued to perform and record throughout his career, earning numerous awards and accolades, including a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005. He passed away in 2005 at the age of 79, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most important and influential jazz organists of all time.
1. Back at the Chicken Shack
“Back at the Chicken Shack” is a classic jazz-blues instrumental tune recorded by Jimmy Smith in 1960. The track features Smith’s signature organ playing, backed by a quartet of talented musicians, including guitarist Kenny Burrell and drummer Donald Bailey. The song is known for its catchy, upbeat melody and lively improvisation, showcasing the tight interplay between the musicians. “Back at the Chicken Shack” has become a beloved standard of the jazz organ genre and remains a popular tune for both listening and performing.
2. The Sermon
“The Sermon” is a jazz classic by Jimmy Smith, released in 1958 on his album of the same name. The song is a quintessential example of Smith’s signature Hammond B3 organ sound, with its soulful, bluesy melodies and swinging rhythm. The song features dynamic solos by Smith and his bandmates, each showcasing their virtuosic skill and improvisational creativity. “The Sermon” became an instant hit and has since become one of the most beloved and frequently covered jazz songs of all time. The song remains a testament to Jimmy Smith’s enduring influence on the jazz genre and his legacy as one of its most innovative and iconic artists.
3. Midnight Special
“Midnight Special” is a popular blues tune recorded by Jimmy Smith in 1960. The song takes its name from a train that ran through the American South, and features Smith’s signature organ playing, backed by a bluesy rhythm section. The track showcases Smith’s soulful playing and improvisation, as well as his ability to infuse jazz elements into the blues. “Midnight Special” has become a classic of the jazz-blues genre and remains a staple of Smith’s repertoire, as well as a popular tune for other jazz and blues musicians to cover.
4. The Cat
Jimmy Smith’s “The Cat” is a jazz instrumental piece that features a groovy and infectious melody driven by Smith’s signature Hammond organ sound. The song is characterized by its funky rhythm and catchy guitar riffs that blend seamlessly with Smith’s improvisational solos. “The Cat” became a hit in the mid-1960s and is now considered a classic of the genre, known for its upbeat and energetic vibe that is sure to get listeners moving. It is a testament to Smith’s talent as a musician and his ability to create timeless jazz standards that continue to be enjoyed by music lovers of all ages.
5. Walk on the Wild Side
“Walk on the Wild Side” is a classic jazz composition by Jimmy Smith, released in 1962 on his album “Bashin’: The Unpredictable Jimmy Smith.” The song features Smith’s signature Hammond B3 organ sound, accompanied by an ensemble of horns and drums. The song’s upbeat rhythm and catchy melody make it a standout track on the album, and its popularity has endured over the years. “Walk on the Wild Side” is a quintessential example of Smith’s dynamic and versatile style, and it remains a beloved classic of the jazz organ genre to this day.
6. I Got a Woman
“I Got a Woman” is a bluesy jazz tune originally recorded by Ray Charles, and later covered by Jimmy Smith in 1963. Smith’s version features his signature organ playing, accompanied by a swinging rhythm section and soulful vocals from his bandmates. The song showcases Smith’s ability to infuse jazz improvisation into a bluesy groove, and his talent for arranging and leading a band. “I Got a Woman” has become a beloved standard of the jazz-blues genre and remains a popular tune for both listening and performing.
7. Basin Street Blues
Jimmy Smith’s version of “Basin Street Blues” is a classic jazz performance that showcases the legendary organist’s virtuosity and musicality. The song, which was originally written by Spencer Williams in 1928, has been interpreted by countless jazz artists over the years, but Smith’s rendition stands out for its soulful and bluesy sound. Smith’s organ playing is supported by a tight rhythm section that creates a relaxed and swinging groove, while his improvisational solos demonstrate his mastery of the instrument. “Basin Street Blues” is a timeless jazz standard that continues to captivate audiences with its cool and sophisticated vibe.
8. When Johnny Comes Marching Home
“When Johnny Comes Marching Home” is a jazz standard performed by Jimmy Smith on his 1966 album “Hobo Flats.” The song is a lively, up-tempo rendition of the classic American folk tune, featuring Smith’s virtuosic Hammond B3 organ playing and backed by a brass section and drums. Smith’s interpretation of the tune is playful and energetic, showcasing his signature improvisational style and innovative approach to the jazz organ. “When Johnny Comes Marching Home” is a testament to Jimmy Smith’s enduring influence on jazz music and his ability to bring new life and energy to traditional tunes.
9. Blues After All
“Blues After All” is a soulful blues tune recorded by Jimmy Smith in 1978. The track features Smith’s virtuosic organ playing, accompanied by a tight rhythm section and horns. The song is characterized by its slow, bluesy groove and emotional intensity, showcasing Smith’s ability to convey deep feeling through his playing. “Blues After All” is a testament to Smith’s continued relevance and influence in the jazz-blues genre, even as he entered his third decade of recording. The song remains a popular tune for both listening and performing among fans of jazz and blues music.
10. Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag
Jimmy Smith’s “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” is a funky and soulful jazz interpretation of James Brown’s iconic hit song. Smith’s version features his signature Hammond organ sound, accompanied by a tight rhythm section and punchy horns. The song’s infectious groove is driven by Smith’s expert organ playing, which is both melodic and rhythmic, and his improvisational solos are electrifying. Smith’s cover of “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag” is a testament to his versatility as a musician and his ability to infuse different musical styles into his jazz performances. It is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by music lovers of all ages.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
