Jimmy Smith

The Profile

American jazz organist (1925–2005), a pioneering force of the Hammond B-3 whose Blue Note and Verve recordings helped define soul jazz and hard bop.

Recognized as a leading innovator of the Hammond organ in jazz and a key figure in soul jazz. Led his own groups from 1953 and signed to Blue Note in 1956. Celebrated for powerful trio formats, crafting walking bass lines with the pedalboard while soloing on keyboards. Landmark late-1950s albums include House Party and The Sermon!. Collaborated with Art Blakey, Kenny Burrell, Lee Morgan, Lou Donaldson, George Coleman, Philly Joe Jones, Donald Bailey, Ray Crawford, and vocalist Bill Henderson.

Three enthusiastic reviews focus on Jimmy Smith’s Blue Note prime and his role elevating the Hammond organ to center stage. They highlight trio interplay, bass pedal prowess, and soulful, blues-tinged bebop. Key albums praised: The Sermon!, House Party, Softly as a Summer Breeze. Collaborators like Art Blakey, Kenny Burrell, and Lee Morgan surface repeatedly.