James Harrell McGriff (April 3, 1936 – May 24, 2008) was an American hard bopand soul-jazz organist and organ trio bandleader. McGriff formed a combo that played around Philadelphia and often featured tenor saxophonist Charles Earland (who soon switched permanently to organ, and became one of the instrument’s renowned performers). During this time, McGriff also accompanied such artists as Don Gardner, Arthur Prysock, Candido and Carmen McRae, who came through town for local club dates.