Papa John DeFrancesco
Oral History Information
Papa John DeFrancesco's musical journey began under the guidance of his father, a saxophonist for several big bands during the great Swing era. Initially a trumpet player, Papa John later found his true calling with the organ, which became his primary instrument. His passion for music was deeply ingrained, and he shared this love with his two sons, Johnny and Joey, nurturing their musical talents and recording with them over the years. A notable highlight of his career was performing with Joey at the Hammond Suzuki booth at the NAMM Show, where Papa John often demonstrated the latest organ models, captivating audiences with his skill and enthusiasm. Papa John's enduring contributions to music and his role as a mentor and performer reflect his deep love for the craft and his lasting impact on the musical community.