Jimmy Smith Band

A Life of Music

Shortly after turning 5 years old, Jimmy met what would become his lifelong passion, the 88 keys of the piano. With little patience for lessons, he learned to play by listening to the radio. It was the '50s and rock was stretching its legs along with Jimmy. With formal music at school and all manner of music at home, the garage was the stage in those days.

Bands with names like the Jaguars and the Viscounts fostered a love of performing. And then it happened— the Hammond organ rose up and it was love at first listen. There were many more bands and lots of different styles of music that followed.

Over the years, Jimmy’s keyboards have partnered with a diverse group of musicians and bands, including Doyle Bramhall III, Steve Kimock, Luther Tucker, Charlie Musslewhite, Nick Gravenites, Norton Buffalo, Larry Graham, Robert Palmer, Guitar Shorty, Little Jimmy Reed, Kenny Neal, Freddie Roulette, Sonny Rhodes, and Tia Carroll. Jimmy's bands have opened for such greats as Bonnie Raitt, Tower of Power, Little Feat, and the Average White Band. Now, all those years of music combine to bring the Jimmy Smith Band to center stage.