Charley Crockett, born on March 24, 1984, in San Benito, Texas, is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his unique blend of blues, country, and Americana music. His music is deeply influenced by his life experiences, from growing up in poverty to traveling across the country as a street performer. Charley Crockett’s ethnicity is a diverse mix, incorporating African American, Cajun, Creole, and Jewish heritage, which has significantly shaped his identity and artistry.
Charley Crockett Bio
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Matthew Charles Crockett |
| Date of Birth | March 24, 1984 |
| Birthplace | San Benito, Texas, USA |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter, Guitarist |
| Genres | Blues, Country, Americana |
| Instruments | Vocals, Guitar |
| Years Active | 2005–present |
| Labels | Son of Davy, Thirty Tigers, Island Records |
Charley Crockett Ethnicity is Mixed: African American, Cajun, Creole, and Jewish
Charley Crockett’s ethnicity reflects his rich and diverse background. He has spoken openly about his mixed-race heritage, which includes African American, Cajun, Creole, and Jewish ancestry. He has acknowledged his African American roots, stating that he is “an eighth Black,” while also embracing his Creole and Cajun lineage.
Crockett’s heritage plays a significant role in his music, which blends influences from blues, country, and traditional American folk styles. His deep connection to various cultural traditions has allowed him to craft a unique sound that resonates with fans across multiple genres.
He has also expressed an understanding of the complexities of racial identity in America, recognizing both the struggles and privileges that have shaped his experiences. His ability to authentically channel these influences into his music has made him one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary Americana.
Family Background of Charley Crockett
Charley Crockett was born to Branton Eddens Crockett and Jan Onda Applehans in Texas. His upbringing was shaped by financial hardships, as he was raised by his single mother in a trailer park in Los Fresnos, Texas, along with his older brother and sister.
Crockett has claimed to be a direct descendant of Davy Crockett, the legendary frontiersman and folk hero. While this claim remains a topic of discussion, his connection to Texas history and culture is evident in his music and storytelling.
About Charley Crockett’s Family
| Family Member | Name |
|---|---|
| Father | Branton Eddens Crockett |
| Mother | Jan Onda Applehans |
| Grandfather | Charles Hayes “Charlie” Crockett Sr. |
| Grandmother | Daughter of Texas Senator George Clark Purl Sr. and Patricia May Purl |
Charley Crockett’s Career
Charley Crockett’s career is as unconventional as his life story. He first gained experience performing as a street musician in the French Quarter of New Orleans. Teaching himself to play the guitar, he honed his skills by busking in public spaces, an experience that shaped his raw and authentic musical style.
Leaving high school at 17, he traveled extensively across the United States and Europe, performing in cities like New York, Paris, and Madrid. His experiences as a drifter and self-taught musician provided the foundation for the storytelling that would later define his music career.
In 2015, Crockett released his debut album, A Stolen Jewel, which earned him recognition in the Texas music scene. He followed up with several more albums, including In the Night (2016) and Lonesome as a Shadow (2018). His 2020 album, Welcome to Hard Times, was a breakthrough project that received widespread critical acclaim.
Crockett has released over a dozen albums, with Lil G.L.’s Blue Bonanza reaching number 11 on the Billboard Blues Albums chart. In 2023, he was nominated for multiple honors at the Americana Music Honors & Awards. In 2025, he earned his first Grammy Award nomination for his album $10 Cowboy.
More Info About Charley Crockett
Charley Crockett’s life story is as compelling as his music. Raised in poverty by a single mother, he faced adversity from an early age. His experiences hitchhiking, riding freight trains, and performing on the streets gave him a deep appreciation for traditional American music and working-class struggles.
These influences are evident in his lyrics, which often reflect themes of hardship, resilience, and survival.
Crockett has often described his music as “Gulf & Western,” a term he coined to represent the blending of country, blues, and roots music. His sound is deeply connected to his mixed heritage, incorporating elements from various traditions to create something truly unique.
Despite his growing success, Crockett remains committed to his independent spirit. He continues to self-produce his albums and perform live across the country, staying true to his roots as a street musician.
His ability to connect with audiences through raw storytelling and soulful performances has made him one of the most respected artists in the Americana and country music scenes.
As his career continues to rise, Charley Crockett’s music stands as a testament to his diverse background and life experiences. His mixed ethnicity, coupled with his relentless dedication to his craft, has shaped him into a unique and influential figure in contemporary music.
