Journey From Memphis Soul to Gospel Glory
Reverend C.E. (Charles Edward) Hodges is a celebrated musician known for his profound contributions to the soulful sounds of Memphis. Hodges has had a successful career in Soul and Gospel Music but Hodges has seamlessly used his talents to Spreading the Lord's Message through his two Gospel CDs God He’s Able and Take it To the Altar.
A Gift That Opens Doors
"A man's gift makes room for him and brings him before great men." - Proverbs 18:16
Reverend C.E. (Charles Edward) Hodges is a name that resonates with the soulful rhythms of Memphis, TN. Not only has he played alongside legends like Al Green, Willie Mitchell, and O.V. Wright, but his influence has also been pivotal in shaping the iconic sound of Soul music that emerged from Memphis in the '60s and '70s. His extraordinary talent on the organ has earned him recognition and respect, making him a celebrated figure in both the secular and spiritual music realms.
A Spiritual Encounter with the Hammond B3
Experiencing Reverend C.E. Hodges playing his cherished Hammond B3 organ is nothing short of a spiritual journey. His fingers dance effortlessly across the keys, evoking a wide range of emotions and showcasing the grandeur of an instrument many have forsaken for more modern alternatives. Whether described as anointed or phenomenal, Hodges' talent is undeniable. Even Grammy Award-winning artist John Mayer recognized this, requesting Hodges' presence at a concert in Memphis. Mayer later blogged about the encounter, expressing his thrill at witnessing Hodges play iconic pieces like Al Green’s "Love & Happiness" during a sound check, bringing immense joy to everyone.
A Legacy of Collaboration with Legendary Artists
Reverend C.E. Hodges’ exceptional skills have attracted the attention of numerous renowned artists over the years. His talent has been sought after by Ike and Tina Turner, Albert Collins, the Green Brothers, and many more. From recording sessions with Denise LaSalle, James Carr, and Toni Braxton to collaborations with Bonnie Raitt, Lamont Dozier, and Rod Stewart, Hodges has left an indelible mark on the music industry. His contributions extend to working with diverse artists such as Boz Scaggs, Wu-Tang Clan, Keith Richards, and Melissa Etheridge, cementing his reputation as a legendary organist whose influence spans generations and genres.
Early Beginnings in Germantown
Charles Edward Hodges, born on June 29, 1947, in Germantown, Tennessee, grew up as the seventh of twelve children in the Hodges family. Among his siblings, he and his twin brother, Carl, were part of the third set of twins born to LeRoy and Rosie Lee Hodges. From a young age, Hodges' musical journey was influenced by his father, a musician who instilled in him a deep appreciation for music.
Discovering a Passion for Music
At 11 years old, Hodges found his passion for the piano, learning to play by ear under his father's guidance. This early exposure to music laid the foundation for his future career. Hodges transitioned to the organ as he grew older, joining his father’s band, the Germantown Blue Dots. Alongside his older brothers, LeRoy on bass and Mabon, affectionately known as Teenie, on guitar, Hodges began to hone his craft, setting the stage for a lifetime of musical achievements.
A Breakthrough Performance at 16
At just 16 years old, Charles Edward Hodges experienced a remarkable turning point in his musical journey. Invited to fill in onboard with renowned Blues and Soul artist O.V. Wright, Hodges impressed the audience with his exceptional talent. Wright, taken aback by the young musician's skill, extended an invitation to join him on tour after high school. Initially skeptical, Hodges soon embarked on a national tour by age 18, proving that Wright’s offer was genuine.
Joining the Hi-Rhythm Section
After facing health challenges, Hodges returned to his roots and joined his older brothers in Willie Mitchell’s Hi-Rhythm Section, a key component of Hi-Records. The band's signature soulful sound, characterized by its warm, swirling grooves, became a cornerstone of Hi Records' success in the 1970s. Their contributions were instrumental in creating a distinct funk and groove that defined the era. By the mid-1970s, the Hi Rhythm Section had worked on 26 consecutive gold and platinum singles and numerous chart-topping hits, collaborating with legends such as Al Green, Ann Peebles, and Syl Johnson. Their youngest brother, Fred, joined them on keyboards, enhancing their dynamic performances.
Expanding His Influence at Stax Records
During his time at Hi Records, Charles Edward Hodges also lent his talents to another influential Memphis label, Stax Records. His contributions can be heard across the music of iconic artists such as Johnny Taylor, Little Milton, The Bar-Kays, Carla Thomas, Rufus Thomas, The Box Tops, Shirley Brown, The Soul Children, and ZZ Hill. Hodges' work helped shape the distinctive sound of Stax, leaving an indelible mark on the label’s legendary catalog.
A Transformative Experience and New Beginnings
Amidst his musical successes, Hodges faced a personal crisis with a severe drug addiction, which nearly cost him his life after a tainted dose of PCP. In a life-changing moment in the hospital, he heard a divine message that he still had work to do. Grateful for his second chance, Hodges recovered and resumed his musical career, initially touring with Rev. Al Green. However, after two years, he felt a profound calling to focus solely on Gospel music. He chose to dedicate his gifts to the Lord, taking up roles as an organist in various churches across Tennessee and Mississippi, while continuing to write and record music.
Answering a Higher Call
In 1998, Charles Edward Hodges embraced his calling to preach and now serves as the Associate Minister and organist at New Bethel MB Church in Germantown, TN. After decades of supporting others in creating remarkable music, Hodges embarked on a new chapter in 2006 with the release of his debut solo album, “Take It to the Altar.” This album features a heartfelt collection of original Gospel compositions arranged and performed with the Voices of Harmony and the Lakeview Church of God In Christ Community Choir. His music evokes the spirit of traditional Gospel, capturing the essence of past practices like mourner’s benches and lake baptisms.
Celebrating a Legacy of Recognition
With over 50 years in the music industry, Charles Edward Hodges has earned widespread acclaim for his contributions to the field. His exceptional career has been honored with awards and acknowledgments from various esteemed figures, including two Tennessee Governors, two Mayors of Memphis, and two Shelby County Mayors. Additionally, Hodges has been presented with the Keys to the City of Memphis and Shelby County, recognized by the Tennessee House of Representatives, and celebrated in a City Council resolution. His achievements are further commemorated by the W.C. Handy Award from the Blues Foundation and a Brass Note on the Beale Street Walk of Fame, underscoring his lasting impact on the music scene.
Recent Musical Contributions
In recent years, Charles Edward Hodges has continued to make a significant impact in the music industry with his distinctive Hammond B-3 Organ performances. His expertise can be heard on various notable albums, including A Folksinger’s Songbook Vol. I–II by Luther Dickinson, Soulville by Beverly Knight, and Crosseyed Heart by Keith Richards. Additionally, Hodges has contributed to Soul Searching: Memphis Vol. I and Nashville Vol. 2 by Jim Lauderdale, Royal Sessions by Paul Rodgers, Indian Ocean by Frazey Ford, Memphis by Boz Scaggs, and Concrete Blues by The Revelations.
Global Tours and Cinematic Impact
Charles Edward Hodges has not only captivated audiences with his Hammond B-3 Organ but has also taken his talent to international stages. In 2014, he toured with The North MS AllStars and joined Paul Rodgers to perform tracks from the Royal Sessions album, gracing renowned venues such as Town Hall in New York City, The GRAMMY Museum in L.A., and the Royal Albert Hall in London. That same year, Hodges was featured in Take Me To The River, a documentary directed by Martin Shore that explores Memphis's musical legacy through various generations and cultural backgrounds. The film, which won the 2014 SXSW 24 Beats Per Second Audience Award, showcased Hodges’ organ work throughout its soundtrack. Following the film’s release, Hodges toured globally, including performances in London, New York City, and the Sundance Film Festival.
A Humble Devotion to Faith and Music
Charles Edward Hodges remains modest about his extensive achievements, often noting that he stopped meticulously documenting his secular music accomplishments after embracing his faith. For Hodges, the most significant aspect of his life now revolves around his spiritual contributions. His music, deeply rooted in church traditions, evokes the heartfelt Gospel tunes once familiar in rural churches, where the emotional connection is paramount. “I’m still recording, but my true focus is on God’s work—it’s my life’s passion,” Hodges explains. “God’s power is immense, and if you have faith and speak it, those obstacles will be overcome. Trust in Him, and He will guide you.”
Biography Rev Charles Edward Hodges Biography
Not many organists can say they performed and wrote songs with legendary award-winning artists Al Green, Willie Mitchell, and O.V. Wright. However, Reverend Charles Edward Hodges can say that and much more. He has been heralded as one of the premier musicians who helped to create the sound of Soul Music that originated from Memphis, TN in the 60’s and 70’s.
Listening to Rev Hodges play his beloved Hammond B-3 organ is a spiritual experience. His fingers glide swiftly along the keys stirring up whatever emotion he seeks to display; while revealing the majesty of an instrument many have abandoned for other more popular devices. Some may call it anointed, others phenomenal but none can deny that he is gifted. Even Grammy-Award winning artist John Mayer recognizes it. Although Mayer wasn’t even born when he first gained popularity, he requested Rev Hodges presence as a guest before he performed at a concert in Memphis and blogged about the experience later. “Legendary organist Rev Charles Hodges stopped by Fed Ex Forum in Memphis to check out my show and sat down at the Hammond B-3 during sound check to put a massive smile on everyone’s faces by playing some of his most famous keyboard parts, namely Al Green’s Love & Happiness, what a complete thrill,” wrote Mayer. Other phenomenal artists, such as Ike and Tina Turner, Albert Collins, the Green Brothers, George Jackson, Detroit Emeralds, Willie Cobbs, Denise LaSalle, James Carr, Toni Braxton, Detroit Emeralds, Bonnie Raitt, Lamont Dozier, Rod Stewart, Boz Scaggs, Revelations, Frazey Ford, Paul Rodgers, Wu Tang Clan, Jim Lauderdale, Beverley Knight, Vanessa Collier, Keith Richards, Melissa Etheridge, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Frazey Ford, and Robert Cray in a recording collaboration with Hi Rhythm Section have requested the veteran musician for recording sessions. In addition to recording in the USA, he has recorded in Japan with O.V. Wright, Otis Clay and also with several Japanese Recording Artists.
Rev Hodges talents have been recognized worldwide, but it all began as a youth in his hometown of Germantown, TN. Charles Edward Hodges was born on June 29, 1947 in Germantown, TN. to LeRoy and Rosie Lee Hodges. The seventh of 12 children, including three sets of twins. Rev Hodges and his twin brother, Carl, made up the third set. At the age of 11, he discovered his love for the piano and under the direction of his musician father he learned to play by ear. He later embraced the organ and joined his father’s band, the Germantown Blue Dots along with his older brothers LeRoy (bass) and the late Mabon, affectionately known as Teenie (guitar).
At the age of 16, he became a local celebrity overnight after being invited on stage to perform with popular Blues/Soul artist O.V. Wright when his regular organist neglected to show up for a performance. Wright was so impressed by his musicianship he invited the youth to perform with him after he graduated from high school. He didn’t think Wright was serious, but later realized that Wright meant what he said and starting touring with him throughout the United States at the age of 18.
Due to health issues, Rev Hodges retuned home and joined his older brothers in Willie Mitchell’s Band. The former band was born as Hi Rhythm Section and continued as the House Band for Hi/ Royal Studios in Memphis, TN.
The members of the band are: Rev Charles Hodges on the Hammond B 3 and Piano, LeRoy Hodges on Bass Guitar, the late Mabon "Tennie" Hodges on Guitar, the late Howard Grimes on Drums and Archie" Hubbie" Turner on Keyboards and Piano. New Members: Steve Potts on Drums and Lina Beach on Guitar.
The band’s distinctive, warm, swirling soul sound and intuitive groove/funk was a major ingredient in the success of the Hi Label through the 1970’s. By the mid-1970s, the band had performed on 26 consecutive gold and platinum albums and countless chart-topping hits for Willie Mitchell, Al Green, Ann Peebles, O. V. Wright, Syl Johnson, Otis Clay, and Don Bryant. The band was later joined by Fred Hodges (keyboards).
While working at Hi /Royal Studios Rev Hodges also used his talents to assist artists signed to another trailblazing Memphis music label called Stax Records. His imprint can be felt of the music of Johnny Taylor, Little Milton, The Bar-Kays, Carla Thomas, Rufus Thomas, The Box Tops, Shirley Brown, The Soul Children, and ZZ Hill.
In 1998, Rev Hodges answered his call to preach and became an ordained minister. His Home Church is Historical New Bethel Missionary Baptist Church in Germantown, TN with Senior Pastor Rev Donald Ester Sr.
He has spent much of his career helping others develop stellar music. In 2006, as Rev C.E. Hodges on the Velvet Label, he released his first solo album entitled “Take It to the Altar” and in 2011 he released his Sophomore Album, "God He's Able” on the GSJS Label. A Book titled My Story Charles Edward Hodges Sr was released in 2021 in collaboration with Author, Delois Jackson.
Rev Hodges professional music career spans over 50 years and his achievements in music have been recognized with many awards. He received accolades from two Tennessee Governors, two Memphis, TN Mayors and two Shelby County Mayors. He was also given a Key to the City of Memphis and a Key to Shelby County. He received recognition from the Tennessee House of Representatives and by the City of Memphis's City Council. He is a recipient of the W.C. Handy Award from the Blues Foundation. Recently, the City of Germantown, TN. named September 23 as Hodges Day to recognize the contributions this talented Family has made to Music.
Recent Awards and Honors:Rev Charles Edward Hodges Sr: Winner of Best Blues Soul Album with Robert Cray and Hi Rhythm at the 2018 Blues Music Awards in Memphis, Winner of the Best 2018 International Blues Album with Robert Cray and Hi Rhythm Section at the JAZZ FM Awards in London, Grammy Nominee at the 2018 Grammys for Best Contemporary Blues Album with Robert Cray and Hi Rhythm Section, Honoree at the 2017 Americana Awards in Nashville for a Life Time Instrumental Award with Hi Rhythm Section, Named A Hammond Artist with Hammond Organ Company, Inducted into the Memphis Music Hall Of Fame in 2016 with Hi Rhythm Section.
He is very humble when speaking about his various accomplishments and when asked for the specific names of several of the songs he played on the sheepishly admits that after becoming saved he stop keeping a detailed record of his secular music achievements. These days, what matters most for him is what he’s done for the Lord. His deep church roots are evident within his music and reminds the listener of the Gospel tunes often heard in country churches where if you couldn’t feel it in your spirit, it wasn’t being played and sung right.
“I’m still recording but when it comes to God’s work it’s what I live, eat and breathe. “God is willing and able but you have to believe it. If you believe in it, you can speak it and that mountain will be removed. God can do it for you if you let him.”
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