5 Things to Know About Jimmy Smith’s “Midnight Special”

It was recorded in 1960 for Blue Note Records. This track comes from Smith’s prolific early period with the label.

The song is a bluesy, soul-jazz organ instrumental. Smith’s Hammond B-3 playing drives the groove, with a simple, memorable melody.

It features a classic Blue Note lineup. The session includes guitarist Kenny Burrell and tenor saxophonist Stanley Turrentine.

The title refers to a train, not a late-night event. “Midnight Special” is a traditional folk song about a train, which Smith reworked into a jazz standard.

It remains one of Smith’s most popular recordings. The track is a staple of his catalog and a key example of 1960s organ jazz.