Malcolm Smith (6)

Malcolm Brian Smith December 27, 1951 - October 27, 1996 Malcolm Smith, well known and respected for playing many different fiddle styles, influenced and inspired countless audiences with his infectious style. From romantic gypsy violin and fiddling hoedowns, to backing up folk singers, Malcolm expressed a great love and enthusiasm for music. Throughout the 70's and early 80's he played with the Houston based "Cypress Swamp Stompers", an energetic, fun-loving string band playing Bluegrass, Swing, and many ethnic folk styles, showcasing many of Malcolm's original tunes and arrangements. The "Swamp Stompers" were regulars at Kerrville Festivals from 1975 through 1981 and were favorites at the popular Anderson Fair Retail Restaurant in Houston, where Malcolm was a sought after backup musician for many folk singers including Lucinda Williams, Nanci Griffith, Lyle Lovett, Linda Lowe and Don Sanders. He continued to perform at Kerrville Folk festivals in the 1980's and 90's with various performers including David Amram. Malcolm was an active studio musician in the Gulf Coast area, playing dates on many recording projects. He recently co-wrote several songs with Linda Lowe, which have just been released on CD. Malcolm performed with a Renaissance and Early music quartet from the mid 1970's up until the day he passed away. He played at the Texas Renaissance Fair for over 20 years and many more Renaissance and Irish Festivals throughout the country. Malcolm recorded many CD's with "Cantiga" and "The New World Renaissance Band" during the past decade, both bands receiving frequent airplay on classical radio the last few years. There will be a permanent memorial bronze plaque mounted in memory of Malcolm at the Texas Renaissance Fair site. A project to release some of his material with "The Cypress Swamp Stompers", along with some of his solo work on Flamenco guitar and Scandinavian fiddle tunes is currently underway. His music and spirit will live on and continue to teach and inspire his many friends. There is a memorial web site for Malcolm on the Internet with many photos, stories and discography.