Lyman Woodard

Lyman Woodard was an American jazz organist and pianist who made significant contributions to the jazz-funk and soul jazz genres. Here are some key facts about him:

1. Early Life and Musical Background: Lyman Woodard was born in 1942 in Owosso, Michigan. He began playing piano at a young age and showed a natural aptitude for music. Woodard's early influences included jazz pianists such as Jimmy Smith and Jimmy McGriff, whose soulful playing style would later influence his own approach to the organ.

2. Pioneering Jazz-Funk Fusion: In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Lyman Woodard became a key figure in the Detroit jazz scene, where he pioneered a fusion of jazz, funk, and soul music. He formed the Lyman Woodard Organization, a band that featured Woodard on Hammond B-3 organ, alongside a rotating lineup of talented musicians. The group's dynamic performances and innovative blend of genres helped define the sound of jazz-funk during this period.

3. Collaborations and Solo Career: Throughout his career, Lyman Woodard collaborated with numerous renowned jazz musicians, including saxophonist Sonny Stitt and trumpeter Marcus Belgrave. In addition to his work with other artists, Woodard also released several solo albums, including "Saturday Night Special" (1975) and "Don't Stop the Groove" (1979), which showcased his virtuosity as an organist and composer.

4. Influence and Legacy: Lyman Woodard's contributions to the jazz-funk genre have left a lasting impact on the world of music. His innovative approach to the Hammond organ, combined with his mastery of groove and rhythm, influenced a generation of musicians and helped shape the sound of jazz in the 1970s and beyond. Woodard's recordings continue to be celebrated by fans of jazz-funk and soul jazz, cementing his legacy as a pioneering figure in American music.

5. Rediscovery and Revival: In recent yea