In the 1940s independent record labels began to pop up throughout Texas. One of these small labels was Martin Records, established in 1947, based out of San Antonio. Martin holds the distinction of being the first independent label to document Polka music in Texas.
Though short lived, the label featured a roster of bands located in small towns from San Antonio to Houston. The label served as an important platform for regional performers, including the Joe Patek Orchestra out of Shiner and Santiago Jiménez y Sus Valedores, (father of the late Flaco Jimenez)—two of the most prominent ensembles of their time.
The label’s catalog primarily reflected the ethnic diversity of Central Texas, featuring recordings rooted in German, Czech, and Mexican musical traditions. In addition to its focus on regional ethnic music, Martin Records demonstrated a broader cultural scope by recording an African American gospel ensemble, The Famous Soul Stirrers. If it was not for the Texas record labels of the 1940s like Martin, Gold Star, (Houston) or Humming Bird (Waco) many of these ethnic groups may not have been documented. Our playlist includes some of these historic songs—once the soundtrack of crowded dance floors, many are still played in dancehalls today.
Enjoy the full playlist here!