Born and raised in New York City by parents who loved Jazz, Soul and the music of New Orleans, Judd was exposed to a wide range of sounds early on and began playing keyboard and piano at a young age. His style of playing and singing can easily be described in one word; soulful. Blues and funk are staples of his gritty approach to jazz organ. 

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After hearing and meeting Dr. Lonnie Smith at the jazz club Smoke while still in high school, Judd knew he had to get his hands on a Hammond organ. Thankfully, he was taken under the wings of organists Seleno Clarke as well as the famed Smith. It was at American Legion Post 398 in Harlem, where Seleno Clarke ran his weekly Sunday-night jam session that Judd learned the powers of the mighty B3.   Many a jazz legend would stop in and play or just take in the vibe.  It was this atmosphere that shaped Nielsen's approach and concept of the instrument. 

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Nielsen has performed with a plethora of artists and bands spanning different genres. Over the years his musical experiences have included Walter "Wolfman" Washington and the Roadmasters, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue, Melvin Sparks, Big Daddy Kane, The James Hunter Six and Lee Fields and The Expressions. Now a resident of Philadelphia, he is a regular performer at Bob and Barbara's Lounge, Philly's longest running organ room. 

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