We remember Jimmy Smith. ‘Jimmy Moved On’

This day (February 8, 2005), in Scottsdale, Arizona, died Jimmy Smith,a jazz musician whose performances on the Hammond B-3 electric organ helped to popularize the instrument.

VIDEO DIGEST

Jimmy Smith BOF

Tracklist :

1 . The Cat

2 . Watermelon Man (2004)

3 . St Thomas (1992)

4 . w/ Kenny Burrell – Got My Mojo Workin’ (1993)

5 . Honky Tonk

6 . The Sermon (1964)

TOP 10

Tracklist :

Back At The Chicken Shack . The Cat . Walk On The Wild Side . The Sermon . When I Grow Too Old to Dream . On the Sunny Side of the Street . Minor Chant . Organ Grinder’s Swing . Summertime . Messy Bessie .

Jimmy Smith: Revolutionizing the Jazz Organ

Jimmy Smith was a jazz organist who transformed the perception of the Hammond organ in jazz. Before Smith, the jazz organ was considered a novelty or a sideline for entertainment rather than a serious instrument. His arrival in the mid-1950s changed this perception, with Miles Davis reportedly calling him the “eighth wonder of the world.” Some have even regarded him as “the first wonder of the jazz organ.”

Inspired to take up the organ after hearing Wild Bill Davis in 1953, Smith saved money to purchase his own Hammond organ. Teaching himself the instrument, he emerged as a formidable musician by the summer of 1955, displaying what has been described as “fiery enthusiasm and relentless drive.” Over his career, he recorded more than 20 albums for Blue Note Records and later signed with Verve Records.

Smith’s self-taught mastery of the instrument and innovative playing style solidified his place as a pioneering force in jazz.

Music and Performances

Smith’s music combined elements of bebop, blues, and swing, bringing an electrifying presence to the jazz scene. He recorded with big bands under the direction of Oliver Nelson and performed with key collaborators such as guitarist Quentin Warren and drummer Donald Bailey. His repertoire included popular jazz standards like “Mack the Knife” and Dizzy Gillespie’s “The Champ,” showcasing his dynamic range and improvisational skill.

His live performances were marked by high energy and a deep commitment to musical authenticity, often setting up and personally checking his equipment before a show to ensure the perfect sound.

Smith’s influence extended beyond recordings, as his performances captivated audiences across Europe and the United States.

Personality and Challenges

Smith was known for his strong personality and unpredictable behavior. He could be temperamental on stage, sometimes insulting audiences and band members during performances. His drinking habits contributed to dramatic changes in his demeanor, leading to conflicts with record labels and collaborators.

His interactions with interviewers were often challenging, as he disliked answering questions and could respond with hostility. He expressed frustration with racial issues and often voiced his perspectives with blunt honesty. His outspoken views on race, particularly during his experiences in Europe, reflected the broader struggles he faced throughout his career.

Despite these challenges, Smith remained dedicated to his craft, focusing on “playing the truth” rather than relying on gimmicks.

Views and Philosophies

Smith believed that only musicians could truly understand one another, emphasizing the complexity of musical expression beyond the comprehension of the average listener. He viewed racial tensions as an ongoing, universal issue and believed that a musician’s creativity was deeply tied to their cultural roots, advocating for musicians to remain in their home environments to preserve authenticity.

Throughout his travels to cities such as Paris, London, and Helsinki, Smith maintained his commitment to using his earnings to support his family, underscoring his dedication to his personal responsibilities.

His insights into the music industry and society reflected his deep understanding of the challenges faced by artists navigating a complex cultural landscape.

Legacy

Jimmy Smith’s contributions to jazz organ redefined the instrument’s role in modern music. His influence can be heard in countless artists who followed in his footsteps, and his recordings remain a benchmark for organists in jazz and beyond. Despite the controversies surrounding his personality, his musical achievements remain undeniable.

His pioneering work continues to be celebrated, ensuring his place among jazz’s most innovative figures.

Wikipedia

Verve

Jazzateria

last.fm

Discogs

Photo : Francis Wolff via Fred Seibert

Your Favourite Jimmy Smith on RVM *

(*) According to our own statistics, upadted on February 11, 2022

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