SoundClick artist: Benalu B-3 - Devoted to the sound of the Hammond Organ in Jazz and Gospel music.

This is a one-man band that is exclusively devoted to celebrating the B-3 Organ sound with primary emphasis on Gospel and Jazz genres. The art of solo organ that was popular in the 50's, 60's and 70's, has largely been lost and I am trying to re-introduce the art and the sound of this great instrument. Practically every church that sings Gospel music has a Hammond organ and I learned to play the organ in many of those churches while growing up in New York City.

Why this name?

My other band is Benalu which is a composite of my given names - I just added B-3 to it to denote this band name and set it apart from the mostly secular music that my other band plays.

Do you play live?

Rarely.

How, do you think, does the internet (or mp3) change the music industry?

The internet is a Godsend because it allows instant multi-state, multi-country contact and communications, particularly between musicians, their music and those who like to listen to it.

Would you sign a record contract with a major label?

If offered, I would have to think about it very carefully.

Band History:

I've been playing organ since I was 8 yrs. old and have owned Hammond organs for over 35 years.

Your influences?

Billy Preston, Alfred Bolden, Howard Toomer, Jimmy Smith, Larry Young, Danny Hawkins, Alfred White, Chas. Earland.

Favorite spot?

San Francisco Bay Area, New York City

Equipment used:

B-3 Hammond, XK-3 Hammond, B-4 Software, Yamaha Motif organ patches.

Anything else...?

The glorious sound of the Hammond Organ especially on hymns of the Church is unmatched and unmistakable