Singer/songwriter Bill Withers is not very well known but he had a very successful career thanks to three huge hits, “Lean On Me”, “Use Me” and, of course, “Ain’t No Sunshine.” Two musicians from Booker T. and the MGs, my favourite band as a teenager, played on his recording of “Ain’t No Sunshine”; bassist Donald “Duck” Dunn and drummer Al Jackson, with Booker T. himself producing. It was Booker T. Jones’ superb B3 organ playing which inspired me to initiate this B3 project. Also, playing keyboards somehow brings me closer to my brother Gabriel, who died so many years ago but is always a part of my life.

The traditional gospel song “Sign of the Judgment” has been recorded by several gospel choirs and singers, like the excellent McIntosh County Shouters.

“John the Revelator”, another traditional gospel song, has also been recorded by a number of artists, most notably by Son House. His 1965 a cappella recording of “John the Revelator” is one of the great musical masterpieces of the 20^th century. If you’ve never heard it, you must, by using this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7m-Kenqhpk

Here is the piece:

Medley – Ain’t No Sunshine