Tex Williams, born Sollie Paul Williams on August 23, 1917, was an American Western swing musician known for his rich, deep voice and charismatic storytelling through music. He rose to fame in the 1940s and was particularly noted for his talking blues style, a technique that involved a spoken narrative with a musical background. Williams' career was propelled by his biggest hit, "Smoke! Smoke! Smoke! (That Cigarette)," which became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard charts in 1947 and reflected his signature style—that of a humorous, drawling raconteur.

Throughout his career, Tex Williams worked with notable bands such as the Spade Cooley orchestra before forming his own band, The Western Caravan, which featured up to 22 members. The band's sound was characterized by a mix of country, swing, and big band influences, making it unique in the Western swing genre. Williams continued to be a consistent presence in the music industry with a string of releases that celebrated the traditional sounds of Western swing while also integrating modern influences. His posthumous compilation albums, such as "Swingin' the Range: Tex Williams' Western Swing Revue" and "Smokin' Country Swing - The Lost Tracks," have kept his legacy alive, introducing new generations to his distinctive style and music that is both timeless and evocative of a particular era in American music history. Tex Williams left behind a rich tapestry of music that not only highlighted his talent but also the enduring appeal of Western swing. He passed away on October 11, 1985, but his influence continues to resonate in the genre.

Genres

Cowboy Western

Western Swing

Latest Release

Swingin' the Range: Tex Williams' Western Swing Revue

Tex Williams

Album - 9 Tracks - Released June 23, 2023