Dr. Lonnie Smith was a Hammond organist known for his jazz and soul jazz music.
- Died: September 28, 2021 (Who else died on September 28?)
- Details of death: Died at his home in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida at the age of 79.
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Musical career
Smith was considered one of the greatest Hammond organists ever. He began playing with jazz guitarist George Benson in the mid-1960s before recording his first solo album, “Finger Lickin’ Good Soul Organ,” in 1967. That same year, he performed on Lou Donaldson’s hit record “Alligator Boogaloo,” the first of many collaborations with Donaldson. Smith went on to work with artists including Marvin Gaye (1939–1984) and Etta James (1938–2012) in addition to leading his own band. In later years, he was named an NEA Jazz Master and worked with Norah Jones, the Roots, Iggy Pop, and others. His songs were sampled by hip hop artists including A Tribe Called Quest and Brand Nubian.
Notable quote
“If you don’t make [the audience] happy when you’re playing, if they’re not patting their foot or grinning, then you’re doing something wrong. Check yourself. I don’t care how great you are. You’re not that great.” —from a 2018 interview for Albumism
Tributes to Dr. Lonnie Smith
Full obituary: Billboard
