Lonnie Smith
Lonnie Smith, also known as Dr. Lonnie Smith, was a prominent American jazz organist, born on July 3, 1942, in Buffalo, New York. He was deeply influenced by his family’s musical background, particularly through his mother, who introduced him to gospel, blues, and jazz at an early age. This early exposure shaped his passion for music and set the foundation for his illustrious career in jazz.
Smith grew up in a musical environment, performing with his family on the radio, which included a diverse repertoire spanning gospel and jazz. His introduction to the Hammond B-3 organ came during his teenage years, sparking a fascination that would define his musical career. He honed his skills by listening to and learning from iconic jazz musicians, particularly the records of Wild Bill Davis, which greatly influenced his playing style.
Lonnie Smith's career spanned over 50 years, during which he became renowned for his mastery of the Hammond B-3 organ and his contributions to the jazz genre. He was featured on more than 70 jazz albums and collaborated with numerous notable artists, including George Benson and Pharoah Sanders. His work was characterized by a unique blend of jazz, soul, and blues, which resonated with a diverse audience.
In addition to performing, Smith was recognized for his songwriting abilities and contributed to the evolution of jazz music through his innovative approach and style. He became a prominent figure in the jazz community, known for his energetic performances and ability to engage audiences.
Dr. Lonnie Smith passed away on September 28, 2021. His legacy endures through his extensive discography and the lasting impact he had on the jazz world. He is remembered not only for his musical talent but also for his contributions to the development of the jazz organ sound and his influence on future generations of musicians.
In summary, Lonnie Smith's journey from a musically rich upbringing in Buffalo to becoming a celebrated figure in jazz exemplifies his dedication to the art form. His innovative sounds and collaborations left an indelible mark on jazz music, ensuring that his contributions will be remembered for years to come.
Funk Reaction
Written-By, Arranged By – Brad Baker, Lance Quinn 5:57
2 For The Love Of It
Tenor Saxophone [Solo] – Eddie Daniels
Written-By, Arranged By – Brad Baker, Lance Quinn 7:11
3 Babbitt's Other Song
Arranged By – Brad Baker
Tenor Saxophone [Solo] – Eddie Daniels
Written-By, Arranged By – Babbitt 6:20
4 It's Changed
Arranged By – Lonnie Smith 6:11
5 When The Night Is Right
Arranged By – Lonnie Smith
Piano [Solo] – Yaron Gershovsky 7:06
6 All In My Mind
Written-By, Arranged By – Lonnie Smith 5:43
Label: Lester Radio Corporation – LRC 9317
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1977
Genre: R&B Jazz, Funk, Soul
Style: Jazz-Funk, Funk, Disco
Lonnie Smith's 1977 album Funk Reaction is a well-regarded jazz-funk classic that fully embraces the late-1970s soul, funk, and disco sound. The album is highly regarded by fans of the genre for its strong grooves, excellent musicianship, and danceable tracks, though some jazz purists might find it leans more towards commercial funk than traditional organ jazz.
The album is a quintessential example of '70s jazz-funk, incorporating elements of cosmic disco, psychedelic soul, and mellow grooves. It moves away from Smith's earlier soul-jazz roots toward a slicker, band-oriented project.
It features top-tier session musicians, including Steve Gadd on drums, Bob Babbitt on bass, and Lance Quinn on guitar, with arrangements by Brad Baker. The collective talent contributes to the album's tight and professional sound.
The standout track is often cited as the "superb disco-funk nugget" title track, "Funk Reaction". Other notable tracks include:
"All In My Mind": The only track written by Smith on the album, described as having a beautiful, Stevie Wonder-esque soulful quality. "Babbitt's Other Song" and "For the Love of It": Classic jazz-funk tracks featuring stellar tenor saxophone solos by Eddie Daniels. "When The Night Is Right": A slick, guitar-led "floater".
Reviews are generally positive, especially among fans of jazz-funk and rare groove, who praise its "mind-blowing" grooves and appeal. It's considered an "indispensable" record for enthusiasts of the funky, groovy style. One critique notes that while expertly performed, it can sometimes feel like "starsky and hutch type lounge music" to some palettes.
The album is often cited as a forefather of the Acid Jazz genre and has seen a resurgence in interest, with its tracks being sampled in rap, dance, and house music.
In summary, Funk Reaction successfully delivers a strong, dancefloor-friendly blend of jazz and funk that remains highly collectable and influential today.