For the last few months, I have seen advertisements for a local musician playing close to my salon, where I work full-time. I became curious and decided to touch base with him to get his story and introduce a whole new group of people to him who may not otherwise hear or see him. He is a blues artist who has a great back story.
Alexander Craig has lived in the northern suburbs of Minneapolis to some degree his whole life, growing a good half-hour drive from his current residence. Alexander was the frontman for his past band Crankshaft and after closing on that chapter in his life, he now performs under his given name. The switch took him out of music and lyrics of a non-fiction state and shifted him into an authentic storyteller and songwriter. Bringing in the element of authenticity was a positive change for Alexander Craig and brought out a whole new level of creativity in his songwriting. He writes music from a lived-in perspective, writing from inspiration, and introspection, as a journaling type of creativity. Living and performing in the metro area for the last 16+ years has given Alexander a close connection to the community, restaurants, and bars. He also performs at private events, weddings, and corporate parties.Â
Alexander Craig's first performance was at a middle school talent show with his brother as the drummer in their 3-piece band. Alexander remembered the cue of the music playing for the act who performed before their band and the jitters and panic bubbling up knowing they were on next. He said for a long time that he would hear that song playing and immediately relive that moment of nervousness. Alexander performed at a fundraiser for another artist, singing their songs and after personalizing their music to his style, realizing he was changing their music at their benefit show in their central area, he panicked. Alexander played the songs in his style and was reassured by the attendees that it was a great performance. Alexander is a great example of stepping outside the box and having the confidence to do your art, your way.
Alexander is a fan of the underdog bands and one of his favorites is Left Lane Cruiser from Fort Wayne, Indiana. He describes them as metal, rock, and blues band with a lot of talent and variety. Another favorite band of his is Southern Culture on the Skids from Chapel Hill, South Carolina, which has music and songs in a variety of genres.Â
He is a fan of local musicians but highlighted Jeremy Johnson and Jason Medeiros as a couple of his favorite local talents.
Alexander Craig has not only been writing, recording, and performing his music, but he is also directing and producing his music videos. His latest video was recently released spotlighting the local Anoka Food Truck event for the song The More We Can Do.
Thank you Alexander Craig for sharing your talents with me and of course your conversation. I will catch a show in Anoka before your residency is over at 201 Tavern. Congratulations on your sobriety!
Catch Alexander Craig’s shows listed on his website and take a look at his videos while you are there. Links to his music pages are highlighted throughout the article.
Alexander's Latest release - Every Day And Every Night