Don Patterson: The Soulful Jazz Organist
A Career Marked by Soulful Melodies and Personal Struggles
Don Patterson, an American jazz organist, is best known for his soulful and vibrant playing style, which captivated audiences in the 1960s and 1970s. His most commercially successful album, Holiday Soul, released in 1964, reached 85 on the Billboard 200 in 1967, cementing his reputation as a rising star in the jazz world.
Early Life and Influences
Patterson began playing piano at a young age, heavily influenced by the legendary Erroll Garner. However, it wasn't until he heard Jimmy Smith play the organ that he switched to the instrument, which would become his signature sound.
Career Highlights
- In the early 1960s, Patterson began playing regularly with Sonny Stitt, developing a strong musical partnership.
- He released his debut album as a leader, Goin' Down Home, on Cadet Records in 1963, featuring Paul Weeden and Billy James as sidemen.
- Patterson's subsequent albums, including The Exciting New Organ of Don Patterson, Hip Cake Walk, and Patterson's People, solidified his position as a rising star in the jazz world.
- Throughout the 1960s, he worked with prominent jazz musicians, including Booker Ervin, Pat Martino, and Jerry Byrd, and experimented with various styles, from soul and funk to hard bop and swing.
Personal Struggles and Comeback
Patterson's struggles with drug addiction in the 1970s hindered his career, and he occasionally recorded for Muse Records, living in Gary, Indiana. However, in the 1980s, he made a small comeback, moving to Philadelphia and releasing new material.
Discography
- Goin' Down Home (Cadet, 1963)
- The Exciting New Organ of Don Patterson (Prestige, 1964)
- Hip Cake Walk (Prestige, 1964)
- Patterson's People (Prestige, 1964)
- Holiday Soul (Prestige, 1964)
- Satisfaction (Prestige, 1965)
- The Boss Men (Prestige, 1965)
- Soul Happening (Prestige, 1966)
- Mellow Soul (Prestige, 1967)
- Four Dimensions (Prestige, 1967)
- Boppin' & Burnin' (Prestige, 1968)
- Opus De Don (Prestige, 1968)
- Funk You (Prestige, 1968)
- Oh Happy Day (Prestige, 1969)
- Brothers-4 (Prestige, 1969)
Legacy
Despite struggling with personal demons, Don Patterson left an indelible mark on the jazz world. His soulful melodies and impassioned playing continue to inspire new generations of jazz musicians and enthusiasts alike.
Final Years and Legacy
Patterson's health deteriorated in the 1980s, and he passed away on February 10, 1988, in Philadelphia. Though his life was cut short, his music lives on, a testament to his boundless talent and dedication to his craft.
FAQ
What type of music did Don Patterson play?
Don Patterson was an American jazz organist, known for his soulful and energetic playing style.
What is Don Pattersons most notable album?
Don Pattersons most notable album is his 1964 debut album, Goin for Myself, which features his unique organ playing and soulful jazz sound.
What musicians did Don Patterson collaborate with?
Don Patterson collaborated with several notable jazz musicians, including saxophonist Houston Person and guitarist Grant Green.
What is Don Pattersons influence on jazz organ?
Don Patterson is considered one of the most influential jazz organists of the 1960s, known for his melodic and soulful approach to the instrument.
What is Don Pattersons legacy in jazz?
Don Pattersons legacy in jazz is that of a highly respected and influential organist, known for his unique sound and contributions to the development of soul-jazz and organ jazz.
