Akiko Tsuruga is a jazz composer, Hammond B3 organist and from Osaka, Japan. She was born in Osaka. Her parents bought her a small organ when she was three and she started learning to play standards. At high school, she listened to Hammond B3 players including Jimmy Smith, then Charles Earland, Jack McDuff, Jimmy McGriff and Dr. Lonnie Smith. A graduate of the Osaka College of Music, she has resided in New York City since 2001. She has been released 10 leader albums in both the U.S and Japan. In addition to her solo work, she plays as a sideman in various groups in New York. She has accompanied Lou Donaldson since 2007.
Downbeat Magazine 2020 rising star poll and Hot House Magazine 2017 best organist.
