There's been lots of talk here about B-3 and players. Winston Walls has been mentioned several times in the past. He was here and played in Lexington in the 70's. He was a big monster, willingly going against Jack McDuff and others in a most irreverent way.

He called himself the greatest B-3 player you never heard of. He is!

If you get a minute, Google his name. You'll be amaised!

I played with him many times here in Lexington. He had all the talent, but is a guy who won't take any "guff" from anyone. As far as success goes, he is his own worst enemy. But, in his circle, he scares the hell out of most better known players.


Check him out!


R.

Ain't no doubt about it, he's a powerhouse for sure. I recomnmend everyone to listen to his 1993 album, Boss of the B3 with Jack McDuff - blows me away everytime.

Thanks, Renig. I knew there was anothr member familiar with Winston. What a trip he was on the bandstand.


R.

I'm not trying to hijack, but does anyone here have the Tape "Battle of the Jazz Organs"?

A must have for the B3 lover.

Jerry

Jerry, I believe I do...left to me by an older 'jazz nut" gentleman who passed away, along with his record and tape collection (even 8-tracks) of about 1100 pieces. It's in the stack, because Dunny remarked that the music was the kind I played. We listened to it about 2:30 one morning, while polishing off a bottle of J&B.

Dunny used to go see Winston after hours with me.

I'll look for the album over the holidays and let you know.


R.

Had a chance to jam with Winston, in Ft. Myers, FL., about 7 or 8 years ago. He talked about going on tour with Brother Jack. Winston is a wonderful player. Later, Ray

Ray, I hear from mutuak friends here that Winston has had some fairly serious medical issues lately. Hope he's OK.

R.

I saw these posts about Winston Walls and felt that I should notify those who have an interest that sadly, this truly amazing musician passed away this morning at the age of 65.

He was an incredible Hammond B3 player as well being a fantastic pianist and drummer (having played drums behind organist Bill Doggett in the early 1960's). Winston had also performed as a stand up comedian, professional wrestler ("The Claw"), motorcycle stunt rider, and professional roller skater. The man was truly an unforgettable character.

He used my Hammond B3 many times during club appearances during his return visits to his hometown of Charleston, West Virginia.
Winston was terribly underecorded (due to his own refusal) and only cut one album during his 45 year career. That album, entitled "Boss Of The B3" was recorded live in Ann Arbor and Detroit, Michigan in 1993 and released in CD format in 1994 by Schoolkids Records. I am so glad that he let me document his playing of my B3 several times over the years to videotape.

Sorry to be the bearer of this sad news. He was a close friend and there are many of us who will miss him terribly.

Winston Walls
October 17, 1942 - February 5, 2008

A sad day ...
t.

I'm so sorry to hear this. He and I spend a lot of time together here in Lexington, both on the bandstand and off. He was a unique guy and fabulous on the B-3.

Any news about arrangements?

Russ