Meet Alex Smith | Musician/Screen Printer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alex Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alex, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
I’ve been present…. My kids know that when I say I’m going to be there, that means I’m going to be there. Have I been a perfect parent??? No, far from it…. But I’m always there and will continue to be. As long as they know that, I’m doing good

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve always considered myself a songwriter. I haven’t written a million songs like the prolific writers you hear about. Most I’ve written no one has heard and a lot of those make it into the trash can. It’s just never paid my bills, so I’ve always had full time jobs. Worked in multiple trades, sales, the “Beer Business”, etc. I’ve learned so many important life skills working in the trades. went from barely being able to change my oil to taking cars completely apart and putting them back together as a body man. i learned to not be afraid to put yourself out there when i worked in furniture and beer sales. I’ve fit my music into the weekends and late weeknights through out my different careers. I’ve always played music. With Different bands or solo acoustic. I’ve never been able to go on 2 month long tours but I’ve managed to stay as busy as I wanted to be. Currently, I’ve partnered up with my Sister and Brother in law and have gotten into the sign and screen printing business. Its a complicated business with alot of parts and a steep learning curve but we’re hanging in there and getting it done. I’m very excited about the future of that place. American Merit is the band I’m in currently. I sing the songs and play guitar. Its myself, Russell McClendon, Daniel Lightfoot, and Evan Shepperd. Were having a great time writing, performing, recording, rehearsing, etc. its truly been a blast. keep your eyes peeled, Weve got new stuff coming out all of the time.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I live in the Piney Woods area of East Texas. Its a small town but chalked full of places to visit. we might have to creative on a week long stay but it could be done. We’d definitely visit the old town area. The Gin is a great bar, ran by great people and would definitely be on the itinerary. The Pint and barrel has one of the best beer selections around and the food is amazing. Dip the fries in the coleslaw, no ketchup necessary. your welcome for that tip. There is great crawfish and good times to be had at hambones and Nunas, and Switch and Queen St. are also must visit food stops. We have great food throughout, there are to many places to name. San Luis has a the best burrito I’ve EVER had, and its one of many amazing Mexican food restaurants in town. We have a few great festivals here every year, put on by the City of Palestine. We have beautiful lakes within short driving distance. There’s plenty of open country and woods if your into hunting and fishing. Small towns definitely have their place in America, mine should be considered as one of the good ones. The people are what make this place great. Most have never heard of it but Im proud im proud to be from here and live here.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would give everyone of my shout outs to my family and friends. They’ve supported me from the first time I strummed a chord. They drove hours to see me play, rode hours in a shitty van just to help set up and tear down when it’s over, payed for equipment and recording sessions, and the list goes on and on. I’m the luckiest dirtbag in the world.. Thank you all so much. Couldn’t have done anything without you guys

Website: americanmeritband.com

Instagram: @americanmeritband

Facebook: American merit

Youtube: American Merit

Image Credits
Steve Peters Christopher Winston Dustin Dow