What is a Hammond Organ?
The Hammond organ is a type of electric organ invented in 1935 by Laurens Hammond, an American entrepreneur and inventor The Hammond organ has a unique sound, produced by the combination of two sets of pipes, vibrato, and chorus. The Hammond organ is often utilized in jazz, gospel, and rock music, and has become an iconic instrument used by many popular artists.
The Hammond organ works by amplifying the signals from two sets of pipes, one set of harmonic pipes and one set of octave pipes. Each set of pipes produces a note when struck. The signals from the pipes are then amplified by a Leslie speaker. This produces a unique sound that is characteristic of the Hammond organ. The sound is further shaped through the use of the Hammond organ's vibrato and chorus effects.
The Hammond organ is a versatile instrument that is often used in a variety of musical styles. It is often used in gospel, jazz, and rock music, as well as in other genres.
The Five Best Examples of Hammond Organ Use in Popular Music
1. Book of Love – "Boy" (1986)
Book of Love's 1986 hit song "Boy" is an infectious synthpop number with a classic Hammond organ riff. The song was a hit in the US, UK and Australia, reaching #3 in the US and #6 in the UK.
2. Spongebob Squarepants Theme – "Spongebob Squarepants Theme Song" (1999)
The classic theme song from the iconic television show Spongebob Squarepants is driven by a vintage Hammond organ. The cheerful organ sound is integral to the upbeat nature of the song.
3. Booker T. & The M.G.'s – "Green Onions" (1960s)
Booker T. & The M.G.'s classic tune "Green Onions" is a classic example of the Hammond organ's signature sound. The song was a hit in the US and UK, reaching #3 in the US and #2 in the UK.
4. Stevie Wonder – "Superstition" (1972)
Stevie Wonder's 1972 hit song "Superstition" is a soulful funk tune with a driving Hammond organ riff. The song was a hit in the US, reaching #1 and going on to become one of Wonder's most iconic songs.
5. Deep Purple – "Smoke on the Water" (1972)
The classic hard rock tune "Smoke on the Water" by Deep Purple is driven by a hard-hitting Hammond organ riff. The song was a hit in the US and UK, reaching #4 in the US and #2 in the UK. The song has become a classic rock anthem and is known for its iconic Hammond organ riff.