DESCRIPTION:
Performed by:
Keith Emerson - Hammond B3
Mike Mangan - Hammond B3
Brett McConnell - Drums
Bernie Bauer - Bass
Band: Big Organ Trio

Songs:
Hideaway
Written by Freddie King

Tarkus (Riff)
Written by Emerson, Lake and Palmer

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Keith Emerson was a huge inspiration for me as a musician and Hammond Organ player. My musical journey thus far would not be the same without his influence and performance fireworks. In 2007, the original line-up of my band Big Organ Trio was in full swing, and Keith, accompanied by his long time girlfriend Mari, made several trips out to see us play at our residency in Santa Monica. This is a tiny stage in a local watering hole that features music in the back room, but that's what made it special for Keith. Here he had none of the pressure of a large concert or tour. As you will see, in this intimate yet relaxed environment, he could just let loose, have fun and let it rip. He simply loved playing the Hammond so much, whether in a classical vein, jazz vein, or straight up rockin' blues. This pure joyous freedom of expression is the primal reason I was drawn to playing an instrument in the first place.

This night Keith hopped up behind my beloved Hammond B3/Leslie and called out Freddie King's "Hideaway". We decided to trade riffs standing behind my rig together, and go all out! There's no holding back on this version of Hideaway, as we push the B3 to its limit. What fun! He even starts things off with a little nod to Tarkus! To me, this is one of the most sacred things about playing an instrument: the joy of expressing your unique inner soul. There are billions of people who have lived and passed on, yet in the face of that unimaginably large number, we are all unique. That night I had the opportunity to express this spiritual reality with one of my musical idols. Most importantly, I hope anyone who watches this video sees how much joy and happiness just playing music and being in the moment brought to Keith.


- Mike Mangan -

P.S. Without his wonderful longtime girlfriend Mari, this night would not have happened.