The Jazz Organ Scene

USA

Rick Allen Born near Los Angeles in the mid-40's, Rick Allen began playing drums at age five, guitar at seven, piano at nine and Hammond organ at age 11. His only real interest in life, other than girls, was music. Blues and R&Blues were very popular in the 50's, and also Rick loved the music of Howlin' Wolf, John Lee Hooker and Muddy Waters and many more.   Rick started to listen to "the teacher of all B3 players", as he says: Jimmy Smith, "the only absolute master of the Hammond organ".   In 1964, Rick and Larry Lynne formed the Skunks. A year later, Rick played in Hollywood and had some work together with Dr. John and Etta James. At that time, Joey Vieira became his manager and producer. In 1973, Rick began touring, among others with Rod Sterwart, the Doobie Brothers, The Beach Boys, Steve Miller and others. Many tours through the USA followed, and he discovered New Orleans, the center of the Blues and Cajun. He worked together with the singer Coco Robicheaux, Little Freddie King and Sam McClain. In 2000, Rick was nominated for a Grammy Award with The Dukes of Dixieland and world-renown drummer Richard Taylor, for their album Gloryland.   This picture shows Rick at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Jazz Festival in 2002.

contact:	Rick@RickAllenMusic.com
homepage:	www.rickallenmusic.com
	Click on the logo to see Rick's tour dates.

Discography

Sound Samples