Texas Johnny Brown: The Blues Legend Behind "Two Steps from the Blues"
A Legendary Composer and Guitarist
Texas Johnny Brown is renowned for his iconic composition, "Two Steps from the Blues," which became the title track of
Bobby Bland's album. As a blues guitarist, songwriter, and singer, Brown's jazzy style and influences have left an indelible mark on the Houston blues landscape.
Early Life and Career
Born John Riley Brown on February 22, 1928, in Ackerman, Choctaw County, Mississippi, Brown began playing guitar alongside his father, who was blinded in a railroad accident, on the streets of his hometown and beyond. The family relocated to Houston in 1946, where Brown's professional music career took off.
Breakthrough and Collaborations
Brown's big break came when he joined the Aladdin Chickenshackers, a band that regularly backed
Amos Milburn. He soon found himself recording with Milburn and backing
Ruth Brown on her earliest cuts for Atlantic Records. In 1949, Brown recorded his own tracks, backed by Milburn and the Aladdin Chickenshackers. He also recorded an unreleased session in Houston for Lola Cullum's Artist Record Company (ARC) in 1950.
Military Service and Resurgence
After three years of military service, ending in 1953, Brown resumed his music career, backing
Lightnin' Hopkins and performing regularly with
Junior Parker throughout the 1950s. His recording career continued in the mid-1950s, mainly as a sideman for Duke and Peacock record labels, although his contributions often went uncredited on releases by musicians like Lightnin' Hopkins and
Joe Hinton.
The Birth of a Classic: "Two Steps from the Blues"
In the late 1950s, Brown composed "Two Steps from the Blues," which became the title track of Bobby Bland's album. This masterpiece solidified Brown's reputation as a blues legend, and its impact on modern blues music is still felt today.
Influence and Legacy
Brown's jazzy guitar style, attributed to the influence of
Charlie Christian, has inspired generations of blues musicians. His contributions to the Houston blues scene, alongside greats like Lightnin' Hopkins and Amos Milburn, have cemented his place in blues history.
Personal Life and Milestones
Before his passing on July 1, 2013, Brown remained an integral part of the Houston blues community, leaving behind a legacy of unforgettable performances and timeless compositions. His dedication to his craft and his passion for the blues will continue to inspire and entertain audiences for years to come.
Discography and Collaborations
- With Amos Milburn: "Down the Road Apiece" and "Hold Me Baby" (1949)
- With Ruth Brown: Early cuts for Atlantic Records (1949)
- Unreleased session for Lola Cullum's Artist Record Company (ARC) (1950)
- Backing Lightnin' Hopkins and Junior Parker throughout the 1950s
- Performed with Bobby Bland on the album "Two Steps from the Blues" (late 1950s)
Quote
"Music is the doctor of my soul." – Texas Johnny Brown
This blues legend may be gone, but his music lives on, a testament to his enduring legacy and impact on the world of blues.
FAQ
What style of music did Texas Johnny Brown play?
Texas Johnny Brown was a blues singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his soulful, laid-back style, which blended elements of Texas blues, R&B, and soul music.
What was Texas Johnny Browns most famous song?
Texas Johnny Browns most famous song is Two Steps from the Blues, which was later covered by Bobby Blue Bland and became a blues classic.
Did Texas Johnny Brown play with other notable musicians?
Yes, Texas Johnny Brown played with several notable musicians, including Amos Milburn, L.C. Cooke, and Joe Hinton, and was a respected session musician in Houstons vibrant music scene.
What was Texas Johnny Browns early life like?
Texas Johnny Brown was born in 1928 in Houston, Texas, and grew up in a musical family, learning to play the guitar and sing at an early age.
Is Texas Johnny Brown still alive?
No, Texas Johnny Brown passed away in 1998, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential blues musicians in Texas.
