Professor Longhair’s Legendary Performance at Soap Creek Saloon
In September 1975, the iconic New Orleans pianist Professor Longhair graced the stage at the Soap Creek Saloon, a rustic honky-tonk nestled in the hills of west Austin along the then-quiet Bee Caves Road. Known affectionately as Fess, Professor Longhair was a pioneer in the music scene, credited with introducing a unique Caribbean-influenced style of R&B in the 1950s that blended elements of rhumba, boogie, and funk. His three-night performance at Soap Creek Saloon marked a significant comeback for the artist, who had temporarily disappeared from the spotlight in the late 1960s before resurfacing at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival in 1971.
Austin’s Rich Musical Heritage
Austin has long been a hub for musical talent, drawing artists from all corners of the country to its vibrant music scene. The city’s love affair with Louisiana musicians dates back decades, with legends like Cajun fiddler Harry Choates making Austin their home in the 1950s. The opening of Antone’s nightclub in the summer of 1975 further solidified Austin’s reputation as a mecca for blues and zydeco music, with performances by luminaries like Clifton Chenier, the pioneering zydeco artist hailing from Louisiana but based in Houston.
The New Orleans Connection at Soap Creek Saloon
Despite its small capacity and remote location, Soap Creek Saloon played a pivotal role in bringing a taste of New Orleans to Austin audiences. The venue’s eclectic lineup featured regional acts like Doug Sahm, Augie Meyers, and Marcia Ball, creating a melting pot of musical styles that captured the essence of the Louisiana music scene. Artist Kerry Awn’s psychedelic comic book aesthetic adorned the venue’s monthly calendars, adding a whimsical touch to the vibrant music culture that thrived at Soap Creek Saloon.
In addition to Professor Longhair, Soap Creek Saloon also hosted the legendary Meters for a series of performances between 1975 and 1976, solidifying its reputation as a hotspot for New Orleans talent in the heart of Texas. The convergence of these musical titans at Soap Creek Saloon created a unique fusion of sounds that resonated with audiences and cemented the venue’s status as a cultural landmark in Austin’s music history.
Professor Longhair’s resurgence in the 1970s culminated in the recording of his first official LP, “Crawfish Fiesta,” a testament to his enduring influence on the music world. Tragically, Fess passed away the day before the album’s release on January 30, 1980, but his legacy lived on through the posthumous Grammy he received in recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the music industry. The impact of Professor Longhair’s performance at Soap Creek Saloon reverberated far beyond the confines of the venue, leaving an indelible mark on Texas music history that continues to inspire generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
As we reflect on the significance of Professor Longhair’s performance at Soap Creek Saloon, we are reminded of the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite people from diverse backgrounds. His innovative blend of Caribbean rhythms and American blues laid the foundation for a new wave of musical exploration that continues to shape the landscape of contemporary music. The legacy of Professor Longhair lives on through his timeless music and the memories of those fortunate enough to witness his electrifying performances at venues like Soap Creek Saloon, where magic was made and history was written in the notes of a piano.