HUDSON AND THE HOO DOO CATS, a JumpSwinginRockinBoogieBluesaBilly band, was founded in Austin,Texas in 1989 and relocated to St. Louis, Missouri in 1995. During the past eighteen years, the band has been showcased in over 3,500 performances. HUDSON AND THE HOO DOO CATS focus on jump blues from the Forties, rockabilly from the Fifties, swingin' shufflin' blues, and original songs penned by founder and songwriter, Hudson Harkins. The band has long been a favorite of St. Louis area swing dance clubs and avid music fans.


Harkins fronts the band as lead vocalist and drummer. An Austin native of 39 years, his originals are strongly influenced by Austin's eclectic music scene and St. Louis' historical blues and roots traditions. Now in his 14th year with HUDSON AND THE HOO DOO CATS, ace guitarist John Logan's commanding style is featured on an old Gibson archtop or a Fender Strat. Slap bassist, Mike Graham, who has performed with the band for 9 years, plays a rare 1940's aluminum upright with showmanship and aggressiveness.


After years of touring regionally and playing thousands of club dates, HUDSON AND THE HOO DOO CATS'experience and professionalism are reflected in their ability to adapt to any performing environment, including corporate events, weddings, private parties, casinos, festivals, and clubs. Hudson's connections with top local performing artists enables him to expand the core trio to satisfy the performance requirements of any setting. High profile corporate clients include American Airlines, Anheuser-Busch, Southwestern Bell, A.G. Edwards, Ameristar Casinos, Fox Sports Network, Jerry Lewis MDA Foundation, and many, many more.

In late 2006, HUDSON AND THE HOO DOO CATS released their 6th album, a live CD recorded at the famous St. Louis Casa Loma Ballroom. The band's first 5 albums have been condensed into a two CD compilation package entitled "AND FRIENDS 2" and "2 CARS," which represent the best of the group's recordings. This compilation focuses on Harkins' originals, showcases the individual talents of each core member, and features the talents of over 25 guest artists from Austin, Texas and St. Louis, Missouri. Some of these top artists include the late Rock and Roll Hall of Fame pianist, Johnnie Johnson, W.C. Handy award winner, W.C. Clark, and Texas Music Hall of Fame guitarist, the late Jessie Taylor.


HUDSON AND THE HOO DOO CATS: JumpSwinginRockinBoogieBluesaBilly at it's finest. For full discography, in-depth history, and client lists, visit www.hudsonband.com.

About Us / Band Bio / What Others Say / Corporate Client List / Reference Letters / Song List