Paul Griffin

Pianist Paul Griffin's resume is sprinkled with such top talent names as Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, the Isley Brothers, Don McLean, Steely Dan, the Shirelles, and Dionne Warwick. In fact, one of Griffin's hallmarks is Warwick's version of "Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head." His gentle fills bolstered the sentiment of the lyric. Originally on the album I'll Never Fall in Love Again, the classic track can be found on the Dionne Warwick CD Sings the Bacharach & David Songbook from Empire. Griffin's piano work can be heard on all of Dionne Warwick's albums with Burt Bacharach and Hal David. Also adapt on the organ, Griffin learned the play through observation. While attending Paradise Baptist Church in the Harlem section of New York City, he'd sit in the first pew and watch the pianist's hands. When the church's pianist passed away, Griffin was hired to fill the spot. His playing in later years reflected his gospel music influence. Later while being a staff pianist at the Apollo Theater, Griffin met saxophonist King Curtis. The two men hit it off and Curtis offered him a job playing in his band. This led to Griffin become a recording session musician, heard on a slew of sides by artists of just about kind. At the age of 62, Paul Griffin died of a heart attack at his New York home on June 26, 2000. ~ Ed Hogan