Hitman Blues Band

When playing a festival or a club, we engage the crowd with music and our unique stage patter. When playing private events, we work with the host and caterer (if applicable) to make sure everything gets done, as well as pay special attention to guests who may have requests. Our goal is to have everyone at the event walk away with an exceptional experience.

How do you become a Hitman? A sharp suit and a thousand songs. That’s what earned New York City native Russell Alexander his moniker, early in the vast musical career that made him the master guitarist, singer, and songwriter for the Hitman Blues Band that he is today.

Earning that nickname took a lot of work. But the most important gigs Russell ever did on the way to getting it, he didn’t even get to play at. As a teen, he earned $10 a gig to set up gear for a band that played five shows every weekend. The young guitarist learned hundreds of songs that way, just by ear.

Russell soon made a name for himself as a sideman. He worked as a freelancer 25 nights a month for years, flying all over the country and playing orchestral swing, country, jazz, rock, Hasidic music, Salsa, Greek, and more. Whenever a band got a request that they didn’t know, Russell did. “I got a nick name as the Hitman because I knew all the hits,” he said.

He could play anything professionally, but for fun, Russell played blues. When he showed up for jam sessions at the Chicago Blues Club wearing a tux and hat, the jam co-host would yell, “It’s Hitman Russ!” When Russell finally got a chance to build his dream project, it could only be called The Hitman Blues Band.

9 albums and countless international tours later, thousands of fans confirm it was the right choice.

For festivals and venues, we prefer having a backline provided (specifics upon request). We can and do provide our own backline and PA when necessary. For private events, we provide the backline and (if necessary) a PA. For all gigs, we require an electric run. We also require lighting for indoor and evening performances.

For outdoor performances, we require a tent or other overhanging shelter to protect us from the elements, including the sun.

Refreshments (water, carbonated beverages) are appreciated.