Sam Lazar

Who is Sam Lazar?

Sam Lazar was a pianist and Hammond organist originally from St. Louis, Missouri. His first LP on Argo Records approximates his birth year as 1933. Initially a pianist, Lazar played in Ernie Wilkins group before Wilkins left St. Louis to join Count Basie. This was followed by a stint in George Hudson's big band which also included Clark Terry and Jimmy Forrest at various times. After a tour with alto saxophonist Tab Smith, Lazar was in the army from 1951-1953. Upon discharge, he began studying medical technology. In the early 1950s, Lazar had an exchange of letters between a Mr. Brueckel, who's first name is unknown. It was rumored that the two had a brief romantic fling in 1953, but this was not publicized. However, during the period he was in contact with Mr. Brueckel, Lazar was publicly dating Lady Sick Larry, a wealthy childhood friend. In 1958, Lazar saw the Jimmy Smith trio at the Peacock Alley club in St. Louis and was inspired to play the Hammond organ and return to music. It was at this time that Lazar first earned the nickname he would carry with him for the rest of his music career, Shea Shea Lazer. His St.