Intriguingly, the interaction between the author and reality has come full circle. The Panama Hotel, a key location in the novel where the belongings of Japanese-American families—including the record—are found in the basement, is a real Seattle landmark. In a beautiful piece of meta-fiction, Riley was so moved by the story that she created a physical artwork: a record label for "The Alley Cat Strut"—a tangible piece of art for a song that only exists in the novel's pages. She gifted it to Ford, who in turn signed a first edition of his novel for her, solidifying the bridge between history and the story that it inspired.

The main theme is catchy without being cloying. It uses chromatic slides and bluesy grace notes that mimic a cat’s stretch and slink. You’ll likely find yourself humming it after one listen.

This article explores the origins of "The Alley Cat Strut," its significance within the novel, and the fascinating story of the real-life musician who inspired it.

Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Holden's musical journey began early. To escape the racial oppression and limited opportunities of the Jim Crow South, he left for Chicago around 1907. In Chicago's vibrant "Stroll" district, he honed his skills as a pianist and clarinetist, sharing stages and forming lifelong friendships with legends like Louis Armstrong and Ferdinand "Jelly Roll" Morton.

Would you like a shorter version (e.g., for a playlist caption or album booklet), or a technical analysis of its musical structure?

The Hidden Groove of Seattle: Oscar Holden and the "Alley Cat Strut" If you’ve ever walked past the Panama Hotel