Dave Alexander, American singer and pianist (b. 1938)

Dave Alexander (born David Alexander Elam), a celebrated figure in American blues music, was a highly influential West Coast blues singer and pianist whose career spanned decades. Born on March 10, 1938, his profound musical journey concluded on January 8, 2012, leaving behind a rich legacy.

Known for his distinctive blend of traditional blues with elements of jazz and rhythm and blues (R&B), Alexander carved a unique niche within the vibrant West Coast blues scene, which flourished particularly in California. Unlike some other regional blues styles, West Coast blues often embraced a more polished and sophisticated sound, frequently incorporating piano and jazz-inflected arrangements. Alexander's masterful piano playing was characterized by its fluidity, melodic complexity, and soulful depth, while his vocals conveyed raw emotion and authentic blues feeling.

Throughout his career, Dave Alexander adopted several intriguing pseudonyms, including Omar Sharriff, Omar Shariff, and Omar Hakim Khayam. These alternative monikers added an enigmatic dimension to his public persona, with the "Omar" connection likely referencing the acclaimed Egyptian actor Omar Sharif, and "Khayam" potentially alluding to the classical Persian poet and polymath Omar Khayyam. The use of these names might have served various purposes, from creating distinct artistic identities for different musical projects to simply adding an exotic flair that captivated audiences and distinguished his work.

His discography includes significant recordings that showcase his versatility and contribution to the genre. Notably, Alexander recorded for prestigious labels like Arhoolie Records, a highly respected independent label known for its dedication to authentic American roots music. His work on such labels helped to document and preserve the essence of West Coast blues, ensuring his sophisticated sound reached a wider audience and influenced subsequent generations of musicians.

Dave Alexander's enduring impact lies in his commitment to the blues tradition while simultaneously pushing its boundaries. He was a quintessential artist who not only performed the blues but lived and breathed its spirit, leaving an indelible mark on the genre as a captivating singer and an exceptionally gifted pianist.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dave Alexander (Omar Sharriff)

Who was Dave Alexander?

Dave Alexander, born David Alexander Elam, was an accomplished American West Coast blues singer and pianist, widely recognized for his soulful vocals and masterful piano style. He was also known by his stage names Omar Sharriff, Omar Shariff, and Omar Hakim Khayam.

What genre of music did Dave Alexander perform?

He specialized in West Coast blues, a subgenre characterized by its refined sound, often incorporating jazz and R&B elements, distinct from other regional blues styles like Delta or Chicago blues. His music featured sophisticated piano work and emotive singing.

Why did Dave Alexander use multiple names like Omar Sharriff?

Dave Alexander used pseudonyms such as Omar Sharriff, Omar Shariff, and Omar Hakim Khayam to create distinctive artistic personas. The "Omar" names likely referenced the famous actor Omar Sharif, adding an intriguing and memorable quality to his stage identity, while "Khayam" could have been a nod to the classical poet, suggesting a multi-faceted artistry.

What was Dave Alexander's contribution to blues music?

Alexander significantly contributed to the West Coast blues scene by performing and recording extensively, notably for Arhoolie Records. His unique blend of traditional blues with jazz and R&B influences helped define and popularize the West Coast sound, showcasing a sophisticated approach to the genre.

When was Dave Alexander active as a musician?

Dave Alexander's musical career was active for many decades, from the latter half of the 20th century until his passing. He was born in 1938 and died in 2012.