James Luther Dickinson was a renowned American record producer, pianist, and singer, widely recognized for his remarkable talent in helping other artists reach their full potential. Based in Memphis, Tennessee, he released several solo albums, yet his greatest contribution lay in his work as a producer, working with an impressive array of notable artists.
Notable among his collaborations were those with the legendary Aretha Franklin, the Rolling Stones, Ry Cooder, and Bob Dylan. As a producer, he worked with an eclectic range of performers, including Willy DeVille, Green on Red, Mojo Nixon, the Replacements, Tav Falco's Panther Burns, Toots and the Maytals, and Screamin' Jay Hawkins.
As a session musician, Dickinson made significant contributions to various recordings. He played piano with the Rolling Stones for their iconic recording of "Wild Horses" at Muscle Shoals Sound Studio in December 1969. In 1971, he contributed to the Flamin' Groovies' album Teenage Head. He also worked closely with Ry Cooder on nearly a dozen records beginning in 1972.
Additionally, Dickinson recorded a one-off single, "Red Headed Woman," with the Cramps in 1984. Furthermore, he played electric piano and pump organ on Bob Dylan's 1997 album Time Out of Mind. Throughout his illustrious career, Dickinson's work as a producer, session musician, and singer left an indelible mark on the music industry.
