Alley Cat Strut Oscar Holden [2026]

"Alley Cat Strut" is a fictional jazz song famously featured in Jamie Ford's historical novel, Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

The "Apocryphal" Title Debate

For years, there has been a heated debate among jazz archivists. Some claim the original title was actually "The Alley Cat's Strut," while others argue Holden didn't name it until a 1949 session with the V Disc label. alley cat strut oscar holden

Recommended Listening

• Oscar Holden: Look for reissues of "The Alley Cat Strut" on compilation albums of West Coast blues.
• Alternative: Seek out versions by modern stride pianist Judy Carmichael or Butch Thompson to hear how the tune survives today.

The Meeting: Henry and Keiko first hear the song at the Black Elks Club in Seattle’s Jazz District. The fictional jazz legend Oscar Holden plays it for them at the request of Henry's friend, Sheldon. "Alley Cat Strut" is a fictional jazz song

"You take care of yourself, partner," Oscar said to the cat. Oscar Holden: Look for reissues of "The Alley

The Record: Henry and Keiko first hear Holden perform the song at a jazz club. Keiko later buys a 78 rpm record of it titled Oscar Holden & the Midnight Blue: The Alley Cat Strut.

The Restoration: The search for a pristine copy of this specific record drives much of the narrative’s present-day timeline, symbolizing Henry's attempt to heal his past and reconnect with Keiko. Real-Life Inspiration: Oscar Holden While the specific song is fictional, Oscar Holden