Strange Alabama- Tuxedo Junction

Tuxedo Junction, the famous song by Erskine Hawkins, can get anyone out of their seat and movin'. But did you know the song is named after an intersection in Hawkins' hometown of Birmingham, Alabama?

Back in the day when zoot suits were all the rage and the "jive" was the dance move of choice, the intersection between Ensley Avenue and 20th Street was the place to be. What is now known as the Nixon building, used to be the home of a popular dance hall in which people of the surrounding black community would dress up and socialize.

Every year, the Erskine Hawkins Foundation and the City of Birmingham pay tribute to the good ole' days by hosting "Function in the Junction," based off of this particular tune. This event is held to remind people of the talented trumpet player and how he brought national attention to a community that he loved.

"Tuxedo Junction" can still be heard today by trumpet players everywhere. It is said to be the most widely copied trumpet solo in music history! Listen here:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IFeFaZoj2QY