Let's hear it for Al Schackman

[Daddy Dom]

Alvin (Al) Schackman was Nina Simone's accompanist between 1957 - 2000. He's 90 years old.

I have been listening to Nina since the 1980s, my early 20s. Al's been there the entire time, playing as sideman to an incredible performer. I'm not surprised there are no entries for him because he's never been the type of soloist so highly favoured here.

I'm here to pay tribute to him and to point out to any other Nina fans that you've listening to Al all along, just doing his fabulous thing.

I wouldn't know where to start with what I love about his playing - just the way he's woven through everything - but I will share this favourite track: pure Al.

[Boss Man Zwiebelsohn]

From what I have heard so far I consider him more a blues / rhythm & blues than a jazz player.

[Daddy Dom]

Perhaps, but I guess that depends on what you define Nina Simone's music as, too.

[Rector]

Hi Daddy Dom,

Al Schackman here. Thank you for your kind comments. I must say that I am recognized as a Jazz guitarist, but have played many genres throughout my career and many jazz musicians, such as I, have been prolific in the R&B recording studios during the '50s and '60s. Nina Simone considered herself a Classical, Folk or World Music artist before a Jazz artist.

In regard to your post about me, I would, with your permission, like to use it as a statement on the back jacket of my book that is in process of being completed. Please feel free to reach me by email: [email protected]

Hope to hear from you.
Al