Tony Monaco is an important leader in the revival of jazz’ Hammond B3 organ. Jimmy Smith, as he was with many young jazz organists before him, played an important role in attracting Monaco and keeping his interest in jazz. Monaco was twelve years old when Smith first introduced him to jazz. As a 16th birthday gift, Smith called Monaco. Smith invited Monaco to Smith’s club, and this was the culmination of their association. Monaco was also able to enjoy time with Hank Marr, Dr. Lonnie Smith and other jazz organ masters. When he was only 16, he began to help out with Marr’s players in Columbus, OH. Joey DeFrancesco was also a friend and helped Monaco along. He produced Monaco’s first album Burnin’ Grooves and joined the session as a pianist. Monaco’s second album, Master Chops T was released in 2002. The addition of horns gave the Hammond organ player more freedom to arrange the music. He was able to fully take advantage of the rhythmic creativity the electric organ allows players to create. Intimately Live was released later in the year. Monaco recorded albums with Eric Neymeyer, a neo-bop guitarist Mark Elf, and also as a leader. Monaco’s jazz work does not provide enough income to support his family. His brother and he own and operate a concrete construction company. Monaco enjoys listening to Richard “Groove” Holmes and Larry Goldings, while he is not building or performing. Allmusic
