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Javon Jackson was born in Carthage, Missouri and raised in Denver, Colorado. Music captivated the young Javon who was exposed to some of the greatest musicians in jazz through his parents' record collection. As he matured, Javon soon became captivated by the work of Sonny Stitt. Stitt is known for his prowess on both the alto and tenor saxophone. Stitt's music inspired Javon to pick up his first saxophone, an alto, at a young age. Javon spent several years touring with a host of jazz greats, as well as his own groups, concentrating on technique and composition. Javon continues to tour extensively with his group, the Javon Jackson or sometimes the Javon Jackson Superband), and performs as a special guest with various artists, including Curtis Fuller and Donald Byrd.
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Les McCann is a self-taught musician. In 1960, McCann was signed to the L.A.-based Pacific Jazz label owned by producer Nick Venet, who recognized Les signature soul groove style that mothered an entire movement of back-to-the-roots jazz. McCann became the label's top-selling artist. Les is best known for his work in the late 60s and early 70s with partner/saxman Eddie Harris, whom he first encountered at the Montreux Jazz Festival. The resulting album, Swiss Movement (1960), was a top selling jazz record. The early eighties saw the creation of McCann's Magic Band, which has recorded a number of independently-released albums and featured Jeff Elliott, Keith Anderson, Tony St. James, and Abraham Laboriel. Les is perpetually known as a grooveman, and as a result, over the last few years, his music has been sampled by the hottest hip hop and jazz artists out there. His music will undoubtedly stand the test of time, as his ingenuity and artistry can be appreciated by anyone.
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Dr. Lonnie Smith is an authentic Master of the Hammond B3 organ. For over five decades he has furthered the sound of Jazz Organ, created a worldwide fan-base, and revealed his musical talents on over seventy albums. Today, his name is truly synonymous with the instrument. Lonnie was blessed with the gift of music and gained an exposure to gospel, blues and jazz at an early age. In the late 1950s Lonnie at last discovered the instrument he calls the “425 pound beast”—the Hammond B-3 organ. He explains, “Even though I didn't know how, I was able to play right from the beginning. It was a passion for me, so everything else came naturally. Lonnie has recorded and performed with Randy Brecker, Garrett, Lenny White, Reuben Wilson, Dizzy Gillespie and many others. During the past decade there has been a resurgence of interest in the Hammond B3 and Dr. Smith has been amused to find himself sampled in rap, dance and house grooves while being credited as a forefather of Acid Jazz. Revered throughout the world and popular among many disparate groups, his unique stylings and prolific output have elevated him to the status of living musical icon.
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Javon Jackson and Les McCann - Fun Time Dr. Lonnie Smith - solo
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