Jimmy Smith, a pioneering jazz organist, died February 8, 2005. According to the Associated Press, he was 76 years old.
He was internationally renowned for the use of his instrument, the Hammond Organ, which he transformed into a jazz instrument. With performances such as 1962’s Walk On The Wild Side and The Sermon, Smith became one of the biggest stars on the Verve label.
Throughout his career, he worked with notables such as Quincy Jones, BB King, Etta James, Taj Mahal and Dr. John.
“Jazz has lost a pioneering talent, not to mention a one-of-a-kind personality,” National Endowment for the Arts Chairman Dana Gioia.
His wife preceded him in death. He is survived by two daughters, a son and a stepson.