Larry Young, also known as Khalid Yasin, was born on October 7, 1940, in Newark, New Jersey. He was an influential American jazz organist renowned for his innovative approach to the Hammond B3 organ. Initially influenced by the soul jazz style of Jimmy Smith, Young later developed a more experimental, modal approach that distinguished his work. His father, Larry Young Sr., was an organist and a significant influence, providing an organ in their home which facilitated Young's early musical development.

Young's career began in the 1950s with various R&B bands, gaining further jazz experience with artists like Jimmy Forrest, Lou Donaldson, Kenny Dorham, Hank Mobley, and Tommy Turrentine. He recorded his first albums as a leader for Prestige in 1960, including "Testifying," "Young Blues," and "Groove Street." In 1964, he signed with Blue Note Records, where his music began to reflect the influence of John Coltrane. His most acclaimed album, "Unity," was recorded in 1965 with Joe Henderson, Woody Shaw, and Elvin Jones, and remains a classic in the hard bop genre.

Young was also a pioneer in jazz fusion, collaborating with Miles Davis on the "Bitches Brew" sessions in 1969 and joining Tony Williams' groundbreaking band Lifetime in the early 1970s. He recorded solo albums such as "Larry Young's Fuel" (1975) and "Spaceball" (1976) for Arista Records.

Tragically, Larry Young passed away at the age of 37 on March 30, 1978, in New York City due to untreated pneumonia. Despite his short life, his contributions to jazz, particularly in advancing the role of the organ, continue to be celebrated.