Joey DeFrancesco, hailed by Jazz Times as "the best B3 player on the planet," left an indelible mark on the world of jazz organ. His virtuosity, coupled with his deep understanding of jazz traditions and his willingness to push boundaries, cemented his place as one of the most influential organists of all time.
Early Life and Career
Born in Springfield, Pennsylvania, DeFrancesco's musical journey began early. He attended the Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts and was signed to Columbia Records at the young age of 16. His debut album, "All of Me," was released shortly after. At 17, he joined Miles Davis on a five-week European tour, a pivotal experience that further shaped his musical trajectory. This tour led to DeFrancesco playing keyboards for Davis on the 1989 release, "Amandla."
A Humble Giant
Despite his extraordinary talent and accomplishments, DeFrancesco remained remarkably humble. Joel Goldenthal, the executive director at the Nash in downtown Phoenix, a venue DeFrancesco often graced with his performances, remembers him as "a magnificent human being" who was "as down to earth and unassuming as he was a giant, with an innocent, youthful sense of wonderment." Goldenthal emphasizes the joy DeFrancesco found in making and sharing music, recalling a heartwarming moment when DeFrancesco and legendary drummer Lewis Nash danced around the Nash after listening to the playback of a recording session.
Revitalizing the Jazz Organ
Mike Kocour, director of Jazz Studies in the School of Music at Arizona State University, notes that DeFrancesco played a crucial role in revitalizing interest in the jazz organ. In the early 1980s, Kocour explains, "no one was interested in presenting groups with jazz Hammond B3 players," and "jazz organ was something a lot of people had forgotten about." DeFrancesco changed that, "He got people excited about jazz organ."
Kocour compares DeFrancesco favorably to Jimmy Smith, who popularized the Hammond B-3 organ in the '60s, creating a link between the worlds of jazz and soul. "If Joey were alive today, he'd say Jimmy Smith is the reason why that tradition still exists," Kocour says. "Joey DeFrancesco more than anybody else continued and extended the amazing innovative work of Jimmy Smith and all the great jazz organists."
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Musical Style and Influences
DeFrancesco's playing was characterized by a deep understanding of the Hammond B3 organ's capabilities. He drew inspiration from earlier organists like Jimmy Smith, Larry Young, and Don Patterson, but he also developed his own unique voice. His style incorporated elements of bebop, blues, gospel, and funk, creating a sound that was both deeply rooted in tradition and refreshingly modern.
One of the defining characteristics of DeFrancesco's playing was his mastery of the Jimmy Smith setting, a staple sound for organists. However, he also explored different harmonic vocabularies and incorporated a more modern approach to improvisation. He had a remarkable technique and a keen sense of harmony, allowing him to create complex and exciting solos.
DeFrancesco's ability to build tension and release in his playing was also notable. He could create a sense of anticipation by gradually increasing the intensity of his playing, culminating in powerful and cathartic climaxes. He understood the importance of dynamics and used them to great effect, creating a dynamic and engaging listening experience.
Collaborations and Recordings
DeFrancesco's discography is extensive, including over 30 albums under his own name and numerous collaborations with leading jazz musicians. He recorded with Jimmy Smith on the 2005 album "Legacy," a significant moment that connected two generations of jazz organ giants. Other notable collaborations included work with Miles Davis, Houston Person, John McLaughlin, and Pharoah Sanders.
His latest album, "More Music," showcased his versatility, featuring him playing organ, keyboard, piano, trumpet, and tenor saxophone. This album exemplified DeFrancesco's constant desire to explore new musical territories and push the boundaries of his artistry.
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A Mentor and Supporter of Other Musicians
Beyond his own musical achievements, DeFrancesco was known for his generosity and support of other musicians. Kocour notes that DeFrancesco "was generous with his praise, his encouragement and always willing to share his knowledge." He was a common presence on the local jazz scene in Phoenix, where he lived, and would often attend performances and sit in with other musicians.
The Hammond B3 Organ: A Legacy of Innovation
The Hammond B3 organ, the instrument most closely associated with DeFrancesco, has a rich history of its own. Laurens Hammond, inspired by the Telharmonium and advancements in manufacturing and motor technology, began producing organs in 1935. The B3, manufactured between 1955 and 1974, became the preferred model for jazz and rock organists, including Jimmy Smith, Wild Bill Davis, and Joey DeFrancesco. The Hammond B3's electromechanical sound generation and distinctive drawbars allowed for a wide range of tonal possibilities, making it a versatile instrument for jazz, blues, gospel, and rock music.
The Enduring Impact
Joey DeFrancesco's passing on August 25, 2022, at the age of 51, was a profound loss for the jazz world. His contributions to the art form, his innovative playing style, and his dedication to supporting other musicians have left an enduring legacy. As Kocour states, "There's no doubt that Joey DeFrancesco did not shortchange the world. This is a guy who was prolific. I can't think of anybody who's done more in their lifetime, even if they lived to 90." His music continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians, ensuring that his legacy will live on for years to come.
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