R.I.P. Jimmy Smith

It is a very sad day. Jimmy Smith, master of the Hammond B3 passed away yesterday at his home in Phoenix. He was 79 years old. Jimmy was on tour with Joey DeFranscesco and was found at his home on Tuesday by his manager.

My Dad turned me on to Jimmy Smith when I was very young. There are many great B3 players out there, but the soul in which Jimmy imparted in his playing has never been equaled. By listening to his records, he taught me how to swing, improvise and comp like no other teacher I have ever had.

RIP, Mr. Smith. God Bless.

Dave McMahan


------------------
Wm. David McMahan
Nat'l Product and Support Manager
Generalmusic USA

Wow .... sad, indeed. We were all just talking about that tour earlier this year. He's featured with Joey D' in Keyboard mag too. What a talent!

Wow...that is unfortunate news.

I too first heard Jimmy Smith, somewhere around '67 or 68. His trio included George Benson on guitar.
Yeah...his B3 could be as smooth as silk or sting like a scorpion.

Indeed, a sad day for all keyboard enthusiasts.
Thanx for the memories Mr. Smith

------------------
...L

Wow, Jimmy Smith huh?

I have not heard his name in a long time.
It is great that he got to perform and do what he liked best all the way to the end of his days on earth. Jimmy provided all of us with an education whether direct of indirectly. He may have only lived a lifetime, but his sound in countless variation shall go on till the end of mankind.