Hal Leonard Books has published The Hammond Organ by Scott Faragher.
With a foreword written by Al Kooper, the book covers virtually everything one could want to know about the Hammond Organ, from it’s technical components to it’s history and the players who gave it it’s place in the development of American music.
“The Hammond has been around since 1935 and has played an important roll in virtually all fields of American and World music,” said Faragher. “I spent seven years researching and interviewing people for this book, from former and current Hammond employees, to engineers, technicians, and top players in all fields. All musicians should know the history and importance of this remarkable cultural icon.”
The Hammond Organ covers various models from the original 1935 Model A tube/tone wheel organs, to the solid-state (transistor) era, to the current digital age, with production dates and photos for each. The book also provides a complete history of the Hammond tone cabinets, as well as the famous Leslie speaker, with photos and technical data for each. Faragher’s account of the demise of the original company, its limbo, and its rebirth is supplemented by many observations from former and current employees of both the original and the new companies. Also included is a comprehensive buyers’ guide telling where to find and buy a vintage organ, what to look for, which models to avoid, and what to pay, as well as important technical tips.
More than 200 artists in all fields who recorded using the Hammond organ are profiled, with pertinent discographies and photos. Among the many world-famous organists who have contributed to The Hammond Organ through interviews and observations are James Brown, Brian Auger, Goldy McJohn (Steppenwolf), Jimmy Greenspoon (Three Dog Night), Richard “Groove” Holmes, Joey DeFrancesco, Steve Winwood (Spencer Davis Group, Traffic), Gregg Rolie (Santana), Rev. Charles Hodges (Al Green), Lenny Dee, Rod Argent (The Zombies, Argent) Greg Hatza, Hank Marr, Gene Ludwig, Melvin Rhyne (The Wes Montgomery Trio), Al Kooper (Blues Project, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Bob Dylan), Carlton Lattimore (Joey Dee and the Starliters).
The Hammond Organ is a must-read for not only Hammond fanatics, but also anyone interested in American music and it’s history.
The Hammond Organ is available from Hal Leonard Books for $29.99 USD.
More information: Hal Leonard Books / The Hammond Organ
