The Big Band

Jimmy McGriff was a Philadelphia-born powerhouse of the jazz organ scene, leaving an indelible mark on hard bop and soul jazz. Starting his musical journey as a pianist and bassist, McGriff's career took off with his floor-filling album that catapulted him into the spotlight, with the title track even making waves in the singles charts. Tutored by the legendary Jimmy Smith, McGriff honed his skills on the electric organ, becoming a bandleader who captivated audiences with his soulful and energetic performances. Beyond his musical prowess, McGriff's life was as colorful as his sound—he served as a military policeman during the Korean War and later worked as a cop in his hometown. Despite battling multiple sclerosis, McGriff's passion for jazz funk, soul jazz, hard bop, jazz blues, and acid jazz never wavered, making him a beloved figure in the jazz world until his passing in 2008.