The Hammond X-66 Story

The Hammond X-66 organ celebrated its 50th birthday earlier in 2017, if you count from its official launch onto the market in May 2017. However, its development history actually goes back to the early 1960s. It was a unique instrument in the Hammond line-up, indeed it was unique in the electronic organ world, nothing before or since has sounded quite like it. It was never intended to be a B-3, the two instruments are very different, and while the B-3 has legions of fans, the X-66 also found a place in the hearts of many of the organists who played it and audiences who listened to it.

I’ve been a fan of the X-66 since I first heard it played in concert way back in 1970, and its sound is one of the reasons I decided to become an organist. I first played one in 1974 and I’m still playing the instrument today.

In this video, made with the help of my good friend Mike Bracchi, I’ve set out to tell a little of the story of the X-66, from its initial concept to the present day, with many very cherished examples being regularly played across the world. While you’re watching, you’ll be listening to the X-66 being played by some top organists – and me!

I hope you enjoy this tribute to a truly unique instrument.