Alger “Texas” Alexander was one of the most distinctive voices of early Texas blues. Known for his powerful, almost unaccompanied vocal style and his poignant lyrics, Alexander helped lay the foundation for generations of blues musicians. While he may not be as widely recognized today as some of his contemporaries, his life and music are filled with fascinating details. Here are five curiosities about this influential yet often overlooked blues pioneer.
1. He Rarely Played an Instrument
Unlike many blues musicians of his time, Texas Alexander did not play guitar or any other instrument during performances or recordings. Instead, he relied entirely on his voice and often performed with guitarists or bands who provided accompaniment. This allowed his vocal style—raw, emotional, and rhythmically free—to take center stage. His unusual phrasing often forced his accompanists to follow his timing rather than a fixed tempo.
2. He Recorded With Some of the Biggest Blues Names
Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, Alexander recorded with several notable musicians who would go on to have legendary careers. These included Blind Lemon Jefferson, Lonnie Johnson, and King Oliver. His collaborations with Lonnie Johnson are particularly noteworthy, as they produced some of Alexander’s most memorable recordings. The fact that he worked with such major figures is a testament to his status in the early blues scene.
3. His Style Reflected the Work Song Tradition
Alexander’s singing style was deeply rooted in the African American work song tradition, especially from the rural South. His delivery often mimicked the call-and-response and freeform rhythms of prison and field hollers. This connection gave his music a haunting, deeply emotional quality that resonated with listeners who had experienced similar hardships.
4. He Spent Time in Prison
In 1939, Alexander was convicted of murder and sentenced to prison, where he remained until 1945. This incarceration interrupted his musical career during a critical period when blues music was evolving rapidly. Though he returned to performing after his release, his style remained rooted in the earlier traditions of the 1920s and ‘30s, giving his later recordings a raw, nostalgic feel.
5. His Influence Can Be Heard in Texas Blues and Beyond
Texas Alexander may not be a household name today, but his influence on Texas blues—and blues in general—is undeniable. His vocal stylings influenced artists like Lightnin’ Hopkins, who was reportedly his cousin, and other singers who valued emotional intensity and vocal improvisation. His legacy lives on in the phrasing and delivery of countless blues artists who followed.
Conclusion
Alger “Texas” Alexander’s life and music offer a window into the early days of Texas blues. His powerful voice, unique collaborations, and connection to African American folk traditions make him a figure worth remembering. While his name might not be as well-known as some of his peers, the imprint he left on blues music is lasting and profound.
No responses yet