Born: February 20, 1933 | Died: July 8, 1979 Primary Instrument: Organ, Hammond B3
Charles Kynard is an organist whose jazz-funk leanings rival his predecessors and peers, though not eclipsing them. Solid, though never flashy. He also plays electric bass. Kynard's album Reelin' With the Feelin' has been sampled and appears on several acid jazz releases.
Hammond virtuoso and electric-bass player, Kynard didn't become too famous for two reasons: he just played in his local L.A. instead of touring, and he recorded very few sessions. Nevertheless, his artistry was enormous and his recordings are true gems.
He was too busy to devote himself to a successful career as a jazz musician. During the day he worked with mentally retarded children, at night he played at local clubs and on sunday he played organ at his church. Even so, he had time for his wife and children.
Kynard was a master at different styles. Playing funk he could have rivalled Richard 'Groove' Holmes in speed and accuracy; his blues were delightful and when it came to slow down he knew how to add an airy touch letting the others play.
His recordings were scarce but he shared studio with top notch artists like Les McCann, Houston Person, Grant Green and Idris Muhammad.
