Orange: Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown gravesite and marker

Multi-instrumentalist Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown blended the blues, country, jazz, Cajun, and R&B into his own sophisticated sound. He became a versatile and influential figure in American music, celebrated for his virtuoso guitar playing and mastery of various musical styles.

Early Life:

Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown was born April 18, 1924, in Vinton, La., but was raised in Orange, Texas. His father was a railroad worker and a musician who played the fiddle and guitar. His father introduced him to a wide range of music, including blues, country, and Cajun.

He started his musical career in the 1940s, initially playing drums before switching to guitar. Brown was heavily influenced by the Texas blues scene, as well as by big band jazz and swing.

His big break came in 1947 when he was invited on stage during a performance by T-Bone Walker in Houston. After Walker fell ill, Brown reportedly took up his guitar and impressed the audience with his skill, leading to his first recording opportunity.

The 1954 instrumental “Okie Dokie Stomp” became one of his signature songs. A rich blues classic, the song showcased his innovative guitar style, blending blues with elements of jazz and country.

Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, he recorded a series of singles and albums that highlighted his versatility, including his ability to play guitar, fiddle, mandolin, viola, and harmonica.

With an impressive range, Brown refused to be confined to a single genre and often incorporated elements of jazz, country, and even bluegrass into his blues performances. His eclectic approach set him apart from his contemporaries and the often rigid styles of the times. Ina way, he was a precursor to what is now called “Americana” music.

Awards and Recognition:

Brown’s contributions to music were widely recognized in his lifetime. He won a Grammy Award in 1983 for Best Traditional Blues Album for Alright Again! and received several many other accolades throughout his career.

He was also honored with the National Heritage Fellowship by the National Endowment for the Arts in 1999, recognizing his contributions to American folk and traditional arts.

Later Life and Legacy:

Even as he aged, Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown remained an active performer, touring internationally and releasing music until his final years.

He died Sept. 10, 2005, in Orange, at the age of 81. His death came shortly after he was displaced by Hurricane Katrina, which destroyed his home in Slidell, La. He is buried in Orange at the Hollywood Cemetery, near Beaumont, the oldest known African American cemetery in the area.

Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown remains a legendary figure who has influenced a wide range of artists, from blues and jazz musicians to rock and country performers.