Johnny Griffith, the pianist, can be heard on Motown classic sides as well as recordings by other Detroit-area labels. Griffith, like Motown’s other pianists Joe Hunter and Earl Van Dyke had a rich musical background. He earned musical degrees from Wayne State University as well as the University of Detroit. He was influenced by Glenn Gould and Bud Powell, among others. He was signed to Motown’s Jazz Workshop and recorded the albums Detroit Jazz, as well as The Right Side of Lefty Eds. Griffith began playing in sessions for Motown’s Ru0026B records when the march of Motown hits began.
