Jimmy McGriff was a prominent figure in the soul-jazz and blues-jazz movement, known for his distinctive Hammond B-3 organ playing. Born on April 3, 1936, in Philadelphia, McGriff was initially a bassist before serving in the military. His interest in the organ ignited when he heard fellow Philadelphian Jimmy Smith play the instrument. McGriff attended the Juilliard School of Music and later studied privately with organists like Milt Buckner and Sonny Gatewood. Post education, he worked as a police officer for a short time but ultimately decided to pursue music full-time.

McGriff became famous for his hit "I've Got a Woman," a Ray Charles cover that established him as a formidable force in the music industry. Throughout his career, he maintained a prolific output, straddling the line between soulful accessibility and improvisational jazz complexity. Albums like "The Big Band: A Tribute To Basie" showcased his ability to meld the worlds of organ jazz with big band swing, while funk and groove-heavy offerings such as "McGriff's House Party" and "100% Pure Funk" revealed his versatility and ability to appeal to broader audiences. Until his passing on May 24, 2008, McGriff continued to fill his discography with a mix of blues-inflected albums and jazz recordings, leaving an enduring legacy as one of the masters of the Hammond B-3.

Genres

Hammond Organ

Jazz Funk

Jazz Organ

Soul Jazz

Latest Release

The Stars of Jazz - Jimmy McGriff

Jimmy McGriff

Album - 20 Tracks - Released February 20, 2023