'PAPA' JOHN DEFRANCESCO

The father of Joey DeFrancesco, "Papa John" had his career revived when his son's success helped bring about the renaissance of the Hammond organ. John's father had played reeds with various swing bands, including the Dorsey Brothers. John DeFrancesco began playing trumpet when he was six and did not start playing organ until his wife bought him an organ for his 23rd birthday. After a few months of nearly nonstop practicing, he was ready to perform in clubs. In 1967 DeFrancesco moved to Philadelphia and soon he was part of the Philadelphia jazz scene. However, in 1979 when Joey turned eight and started playing professionally, John temporarily gave up his career in order to supervise his son. Another son, Johnny DeFrancesco, developed into a fine guitarist. In the 1990s, John DeFrancesco returned to a more active playing career, recording two strong sets for Muse (Doodlin' and Comin' Home -- both read more...