Mousey Alexander


Elmer "Mousey" Alexander was an American jazz drummer.

Career

Alexander was born in Gary, Indiana to Assyrian parents from Iran. He grew up in Chicago, eventually studying at the Roy C. Knapp School of Percussion located there.
Prior to serving in the Navy during World War II, Alexander backed up different performers at Chicago jazz clubs, including the singer Billie Holiday. In the late 1940s, Alexander began working with Jimmy McPartland in Chicago, and, in 1952, began playing in the band of pianist Marian McPartland. In the middle of the 1950s, he played and recorded with the Sauter-Finegan Orchestra and with guitarist, Johnny Smith. In 1956, he accompanied Benny Goodman on a tour of the Far East and, subsequently, toured with him up until the early 1970s to additional locations as well, such as to South America and Europe. Later, in the 1950s, he often worked with Bud Freeman and Eddie Condon. He also played with Charlie Ventura, Red Norvo, Clark Terry, Ralph Sutton, Sy Oliver, and Doc Severinsen. Alexander freelanced during the 1960s with several bands. In the 1970s, he recorded for jazz producer Harry Lim and the Famous Door record label, and in 1972, accompanied the singer, Pearl Bailey, when she performed for President Richard Nixon at the White House.
Alexander suffered a stroke in 1980. After a period of recovery, he continued playing jazz until his death in 1988. He died of heart failure and kidney failure.

Discography

As leader

  • ''The Mouse Roars!''

As sideman

With Johnny SmithThe Johnny Smith Quartet The Johnny Smith Foursome Vol. II Plus the Trio The Johnny Smith Stan Getz Years
With Charlie VenturaThe New Charlie Ventura in Hi-Fi Plays Hi-Fi Jazz Chazz '77 Charlie Ventura Quintet
With others