Willie Alexander Celebrates 80 Years at Gloucester’s New Venue, The Cut
GLOUCESTER – A legendary figure in Boston’s live music scene, Willie Alexander, celebrated his 80th birthday at the grand opening of Gloucester’s newest music venue, The Cut. Alexander has played a pivotal role in the city’s music history, from opening the iconic Boston Tea Party in the 1960s to establishing The Rat, a punk hot spot in the mid-’70s. On this momentous occasion, musicians and fans alike paid tribute to Alexander’s lasting impact on the local music scene.
The Cut, located in Gloucester, played host to a memorable Saturday night filled with live performances and heartfelt tributes. As the crowd celebrated Alexander’s milestone birthday, several musicians who contributed to the vibrant music culture of Boston joined in on the festivities. Among them were Richie Parsons Band and Classic Ruins, who paid homage to Alexander before he took the stage.
With his unmistakable white rooster comb hair and lithe stature, Alexander exuded an aura of undying passion and energy. Local poet Jim Dunn playfully joked about writing a new poem for Alexander’s 90th birthday, highlighting the septuagenarian’s enduring presence in the music industry.
True to his avant-garde nature, Alexander deviated from expectations and opened his set with the Persistence of Memory Orchestra, his free jazz project from the 1990s. This unexpected choice reflected Alexander’s ability to surprise and captivate audiences throughout his career. Known for his nickname Loco, Alexander proved once again that he can defy conventions and deliver a remarkable performance.
The evening at The Cut resonated with New England rock ‘n’ roll fans, who vividly remembered the exhilarating nights they spent in Boston’s iconic clubs during its wild and vibrant era. The lineup of performers at the venue’s grand opening, although older and perhaps more sober, unleashed a flood of reminiscences from those bygone days.
First to grace the stage were The Neighborhoods, the inaugural winners of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Rumble in 1979. Frontman David Minehan credited Alexander as the gateway drug to his musical journey and playfully exclaimed, It’s all your fault! The Real Kids’ John Felice, accompanied by drummer David Robinson, performed the beloved Massachusetts rock anthem, Roadrunner, written by Felice’s fellow Natick schoolmate, Jonathan Richman.
Joining the lineup was the reunited Reddy Teddy, a band once hailed by Playboy as possibly the most exciting new American band. They brought the house down with their Rat favorite, Moron Rock, from their debut album. Mission of Burma, with guest drummer Hugo Burnham from Gang of Four, rebranded as Mission of Burnham for the night, while Rick Berlin treated the audience to a brief solo set on Alexander’s well-worn and sticker-covered keyboard.
Amidst the celebration, Alexander’s Boom Boom Band, including the talented guitarist Billy Loosigian, provided backing for several singers. Jon Macey of Fox Pass, yet another influential Boston band from the 1970s, infused Alexander’s bluesy composition Looking Like a Bimbo with his own unique touch. Alexander himself closed the mini-set with Rock & Roll ’78, leaving the audience exhilarated and grateful for his immeasurable contributions to the music world.
Willie Alexander’s 80th birthday celebration at The Cut left no doubt about his enduring legacy in Boston’s music history. The night was a testament to the impact he has had on countless musicians and fans who cherished the vibrant and rebellious spirit of Boston’s golden musical era. As Alexander continues to inspire and entertain, his influence on the local music scene remains immeasurable.
The Cut, with its grand opening event dedicated to honoring a living legend like Alexander, solidified its place as Gloucester’s newest haven for live music. The venue promises to carry on the tradition of showcasing talented musicians and preserving the rich musical heritage that has defined the region.
In conclusion, the evening at The Cut will be etched in the memories of all who attended. Paying tribute to Willie Alexander, a true patron saint of Boston’s live music scene, was a fitting celebration of an extraordinary career and an iconic figure who continues to inspire musicians to this day.
