Lyman Woodard
March 3, 1942 – February 25, 2009
Lyman Woodard was a much respected Detroit jazz organist who, if he weren’t living in the shadow of Motown, might have been more of a household name. Woodard kept busy during the late ’60s and ’70s by either fronting his own Latin and Afro-Cuban influenced jazz band, or by recording with many of the Motown acts. He also served as the musical director for Martha Reeves and the Vandellas during that time. On stage with his own band, Woodard was legendary for his rousing and rollicking live shows. Lyman Woodard was 66 when he passed away due to ill health.