Blues Maestro Victor Brox Live and In Conversation at Band on the Wall
It is true to say that Victor Brox was one of the most underrated champions of the British Blues scene and its unsung hero. This may well have been because he refused to be pigeon-holed into any single category and had an eclectic style which often defied analysis. What cannot be disputed was his excellent singing voice, musical virtuosity and total eccentricity. He was described by Jimi Hendrix and Tina Turner as their favourite white blues singer. He was without doubt a national treasure.
Victor was born in Ashton under Lyne and went to school at William Hulme Grammar in Manchester. He later studied philosophy in Wales and played in a band in his spare time which is when he became fascinated with incorporating different musical instruments into various types of music.
Victor Brox – Moved to South of France
At one point later in life he moved to the South of France and made occasional visits to the UK where he he was seen in pubs scattered across northern England. He was also very influential in helping to create the Manchester music scene which flourished from the early seventies and also contributed to the sixties UK blues scene where he was at one time compared to John Mayall. He often appeared at the same venues, eg, The Twisted Wheel, Manchester.
His talents included keyboards, vocals, cornet and other assorted instruments. The cornet seemed to be a firm favourite of his – it’s amazing how he made this instrument fit into his repertoire, especially into both soul and ska classics.
He also had a very talented blues singing daughter – Kyla Brox as well as a very talented ex-wife Annette Reis, who helped Victor Brox form his blues band and often appeared as an opera singer. Many years ago he was a familiar sight in Rusholme. As I went to school in Victoria Park, I used to see him regularly. He looked more like a cool jazz musician in those days and as slim as a whippet!
In August 2005 he appeared at The Puzzle Hall Inn (Sowerby Bridge, Halifax Yorkshire). His singing voice was still as strong as ever but I had the impression he had become a little bit deaf.
August 2005 Direct from France Live at The Puzzle Hall Hotel (HALIFAX)
Victor Brox
Born: 5 May 1941
Died: 20 February 2023
Victor Brox Obituary – Manchester Evening News