Biography
Al Urban (Alvin Peter Urban) was born on March 1, 1935, on a farm in Gonzales, Texas. Growing up in rural Texas, he developed an early passion for music, picking up the guitar in his mid-teens and soon forming his first band, The Daybreakers. Urban's musical journey began in earnest during the 1950s, a period that saw the rise of rockabilly and country music in the American South.
Urban became known as a rockabilly singer, guitarist, and songwriter, recording a number of singles that blended the raw energy of rockabilly with the storytelling tradition of country. His recordings, such as 'Street of Memories,' showcased his distinctive Texas sound and contributed to the regional popularity of the genre. Although he never achieved major national fame, Urban's music has been featured on several rockabilly compilations, earning him a cult following among genre enthusiasts.
Al Urban's legacy lies in his authentic representation of Texas rockabilly and his contributions to the genre's golden era. He continued to perform and record into later decades, leaving behind a catalog that is celebrated by collectors and fans of early American rock and country music.
Fun Facts
- Al Urban's single 'Street of Memories' was released on the legendary Sarg label, a key outlet for Texas rockabilly and country artists.
- He was active as both a performer and songwriter, with his works affiliated with BMI.
- Urban's music has been featured on several rare rockabilly compilations, making his records sought after by collectors.
- Despite his regional focus, Urban's recordings have gained international appreciation, especially among European rockabilly fans.
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Texas Country and Rockabilly Scene - Urban was influenced by the broader Texas country and rockabilly scene of the 1950s, drawing inspiration from local musicians and the emerging rockabilly sound. (General influence on his singles and band performances) [1950s]
Key Collaborators
- The Daybreakers - Urban's first band, which he formed in his teens, performing and recording with him in his early career. (Early singles and live performances) [1950s]
Artists Influenced
- Texas Rockabilly Collectors and Revivalists - Urban's recordings have been rediscovered and celebrated by later generations of rockabilly musicians and collectors, particularly in Texas and among European revivalists. (Inclusion on rockabilly compilation albums) [1980s-present]
Connection Network
Discography
Albums
| Title | Release Date | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Gold Star Guitar | 2011-03-11 | Album |
Top Tracks
- Gonna Be Better Times (Cool Cats)
- Won't You Yell Me Her Name (The Rarest Rockabilly Album In The World Ever)
- Gonna Be Better Times (The Rarest Rockabilly Album In The World Ever Vol.2)
- Won't You Tell Me Her Name (Rednecks & Greasers Vol. 9)
- Lookin' for Money ("Sarg" Rockers Vol. 1)
- Gonna Be Better Times (Sin Alley Vol. 5)
- Won't Tell You Her Name (Rockabilly's Rarest, Vol. 6)
- Lookin' for Money (The Sarg Records Anthology)
- I Don't Want to Be Alone (The Sarg Records Anthology)
- Gonna Be Better Times (The Sarg Records Anthology)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
al urban has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 3, 2025 | 19:03 | gonna be better times | Blues and R&Bw/ Gentilly Jr. |