Al Kooper
The guitarist-turned-organist who played on a key Bob Dylan session.
Al Kooper is a keyboardist and arranger who played a role in the recording sessions for Bob Dylan's 1966 album Blonde on Blonde. On the song "One of Us Must Know (Sooner or Later)", Dylan was backed by drummer Bobby Gregg, bassist Rick Danko (or Bill Lee), guitarist Robbie Robertson, pianist Paul Griffin, and Al Kooper playing organ. Kooper is as "more a guitarist than an organist" at that time.
Quick Facts
- Instrument
- Organ
Lore & Background
Al Kooper's role in the 1966 Blonde on Blonde sessions was as an organist, despite being primarily a guitarist. On "One of Us Must Know (Sooner or Later)", Kooper was playing organ, and that he was "more a guitarist than an organist". This session took place in New York before Dylan moved the recording to Nashville.
Reader's Guide
Al Kooper's known contribution from the source is limited to one recording session. He played organ on Bob Dylan's "One of Us Must Know (Sooner or Later)" in January 1966 in New York. Him as "more a guitarist than an organist" at the time. The other Hawks members (Rick Danko, Robbie Robertson) were present, but Garth Hudson, Richard Manuel, and Levon Helm were not at this session.
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