The most compelling theory comes from an interview with Holden’s granddaughter, pianist Joni Holden Allen, conducted in 1995. She recalled:
Do you have a memory of hearing "Alley Cat Strut" on an old radio show or in a vintage film? Share your story in the comments below. And for more deep dives on forgotten jazz pioneers, subscribe to the newsletter. alley cat strut oscar holden
A Grammy-winning instrumental hit by Danish pianist Bent Fabric . The most compelling theory comes from an interview
"Alley Cat Strut" is a fictional jazz record by the real-life musician Oscar Holden And for more deep dives on forgotten jazz
(1886–1969) was a very real and legendary figure in the Pacific Northwest music scene. The Escape from Gangsters
Few piano pieces from this era paint such a specific, humorous picture. You can almost hear the cat pausing to clean a paw, then darting after a shadow. It’s pure musical storytelling.