What makes Gettin' the Message by Johnny "Hammond" Smith notable?

This album has been noted for its influential sound in the emerging soul jazz movement of the early 1960s. The title track, Gettin' the Message, became particularly significant for its catchy melody and rhythmic complexity, which resonated with jazz and rhythm & blues audiences alike. Gettin' the Message was Johnny 'Hammond' Smith's second album, released in 1961 following his debut, Soul Talk. At this point in his career, Smith was establishing himself within the soul jazz genre, showcasing his unique style and mastery of the Hammond organ.

How many songs are on Gettin' the Message?

Gettin' the Message has 6 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Gettin' the Message

Johnny "Hammond" Smith · 1961

36 min · 6 tracks · soul jazz

Soulful organ grooves intertwine with vibrant rhythms, creating a rich tapestry of jazz that invites deep listening.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Gettin' the Message — The title track embodies the album's spirit with its infectious groove and showcases Smith's dexterity on the organ, making it a standout piece.
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Swanee River — This track transforms a classic tune into a soulful arrangement, highlighting Smith's ability to blend traditional elements with contemporary jazz sensibilities.
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Lid Flippin’ — With its upbeat tempo and playful rhythm, this track captures the joyous energy present throughout the album and serves as a testament to Smith's innovative approach.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong organ-led compositions and solid craftsmanship, making it a notable entry in soul jazz.

What we noticed

The album features a prominent organ sound that drives the melodies, with rhythmic backing from drums and bass throughout.
Each track maintains a consistent groove, often extending solos that showcase improvisation over the established themes.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Just Say So Long

The music shifts from a laid-back vibe to an intense build-up reflects the emotional tension in parting.

This shift in dynamics emphasizes the weight of farewell, enhancing the listener's engagement with the unfolding narrative.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Swanee River 8:57
2 Just Say So Long 4:03
3 Lid Flippin’ 5:17
4 Gettin' the Message 7:15
5 Princess 5:30
6 Dementia 5:18

What to play next

Listen next

Stimulation

1961

Go back to

Talk That Talk

1960

Full Johnny "Hammond" Smith discography Artists like Johnny "Hammond" Smith

soul jazz

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata