Greetings again from the darkness. When the history of music in the United States is discussed, it seems most of the gushing is reserved for Memphis, Chicago, and New Orleans. Documentarian Alan Swyer puts forth a legitimate case for Houston (and its corresponding night clubs) to at least be a part of the conversation. For those who shy away from documentaries due to the stream of talking heads, you'll likely cringe at the lineup here; however, the difference is that some of the interviews go back a few years and are those who were there ... the musicians who drove the Houston influence.
Swyer breaks the film into segments so that he can organize the interviews and help us understand how the early Houston music scene was a unique blend of Blues, R&B, Country, and Zydeco. He includes an early 'roll call' of those we are going to learn about through photos and live performance clips. In fact, this leaves us eager for more of these rare visuals. Where else can you hear Billy Gibbons (ZZ Topp) discuss the influence of Lightnin' Hopkins? Or historian Billy Vera offering his insight?
It's interesting to learn about the "Texas Tenors" - the saxophone players like Arnett Cobb and Grady Gaines who had an impact. Texas music legends Augie Meyers and Marcia Ball offer commentary on some of these folks, as well as the Duke - Peacock record label. Bobby Blue Bland gets his kudos as a favorite singer, especially on his classic album, "Two Steps from the Blues". Perhaps the most entertaining segment is "The Ladies of Houston Blues" featuring Big Mama Thornton, Jewel Brown, Trudy Lynn, and Katie Webster. Thornton is especially noted for her impact as it pertains to her recording of "Hound Dog" in comparison to Elvis' version. Of course, this wouldn't be complete without a segment for "Texas Guitar Kings". Freddie King, Albert King, Albert Collins, and Guitar Shorty are all noted, as is their influence on Stevie Ray Vaughan.
Swyer wraps things up by discussing a cultural change in "When Houston Lost the Blues". Integration led musicians to leave town for national tours, private gigs, and shows at 'white clubs' where they had previously been unwelcomed. For those who enjoy a journey through musical history or for Texans hoping for a bit more respect, the film does a nice job of acknowledging those who had an impact - including those who haven't received due credit.
Available on major streaming VOD platforms - including iTunes, Apple TV, and Tubi beginning September 24, 2024.
