Other organists
In addition to Ralph Jones and Dr. Charles Clency, other organists have also played for Mahalia.
Mildred Falls
Mildred Falls, Mahalia's longtime pianist, was also an organist. In her younger years, she played the organ in churches in Chicago. Although she always played the piano for Mahalia in public, there are photos of her sitting at the organ (in the studio).
Kenneth Morris
Kenneth Morris, music director of the First Church of Deliverance, played a decisive role in introducing the Hammond organ to gospel music. He was fascinated by the versatility and ability of the Hammond organ to mimic the expressiveness of the human voice. It is not really known whether Morris ever played for Mahalia Jackson. However, it is mentioned that Mahalia performed at the church where Morris was music director and that he sent her sheet music. It is therefore very likely that the two played music together.
Other organists at First Church of Deliverance
In addition to Morris, other organists at the First Church of Deliverance are mentioned, including Kenneth Heitz, David Weston, Joseph Henderson, Charles Miller, Fred Nelson Jr., and Fred Nelson III.
Unnamed organists
The sources also mention that Mahalia used the organ in her recordings as early as the 1940s. At that time, it was unusual to use the organ in gospel music, and Mahalia's decision to do so caused quite a stir. Unfortunately, however, the sources do not name the organists who were involved in these early recordings.
The importance of the organ in gospel music
The Hammond organ became popular in gospel music because it could mimic the expressiveness of the human voice. It allowed organists to express emotion and passion through their playing. The organ provided strong rhythmic support for the vocals and helped create the energetic atmosphere of gospel music. The Hammond organ was a versatile instrument that could produce a wide range of sounds, from soft and melodic to powerful and rhythmic. This made it an ideal accompaniment for gospel music.