Hyde

Websites:  No
Origin: Toronto, Ontario
Biography:

The Untold Story of Hyde: Brian Victor Alexander’s 1969 Folk-Psych Treasure
The story behind Hyde, a self-titled 1969 album, is one of the most intriguing and mysterious chapters in Canadian music history. For decades, the man behind this masterpiece remained unknown to most, shrouded in secrecy by close friends and family. Brian Victor Alexander, the creative force behind the Hyde alias, was a Toronto-based singer-songwriter whose talent, determination, and artistry made a lasting impression on those lucky enough to witness his rise.

Humble Beginnings in Toronto
Brian Victor Alexander was born on March 7, 1946, in Toronto, Ontario, to Alice and Victor Alexander. Growing up in the city’s west end, Brian excelled in sports like baseball and hockey, encouraged by his supportive father. Although music wasn’t part of his family’s life, Brian’s fascination with R&B and blues ignited during his childhood. By the age of ten, he was immersing himself in records and eventually became a DJ for neighborhood dances.

At fifteen, Brian picked up a guitar and harmonica, teaching himself to play and pouring countless hours into practicing. When he discovered Bob Dylan’s debut album in 1962, it was a revelation. Inspired by Dylan’s ability to blend poetic lyrics with folk melodies, Brian began writing his own songs, embracing the singer-songwriter path and dreaming of making his mark in Toronto’s burgeoning folk music scene.

Finding His Voice in Yorkville
During the 1960s, Yorkville in Toronto was the epicenter of Canada’s counterculture and music scene. Brian, captivated by the talent and energy of the area, became a regular at venues like the Riverboat and the Mynah Bird coffeehouse. In December 1965, he approached Colin Kerr, the owner of the Mynah Bird, for a chance to perform. After a brief audition, he secured a regular spot, earning recognition for his introspective lyrics and Dylan-inspired vocal delivery.

Brian’s formative experiences in Yorkville, including seeing Bob Dylan’s controversial 1965 concert at Massey Hall, inspired him to stay true to his art. Performing in Yorkville’s iconic venues alongside emerging musicians helped him refine his craft and develop his signature sound.

The Creation of Hyde
By 1969, Brian had adopted the alias Hyde, a persona he used to distance himself from his personal struggles and focus entirely on his music. He caught the attention of Art Snider, a prominent figure in Toronto’s music industry, who signed him to record an album. Backed by the talented Toronto psych-rock band Rockadrome, Hyde recorded his self-titled album at Sound Canada Recording Studios.

The album, featuring nine original songs and a heartfelt cover of Bob Dylan’s I Threw It All Away, showcased Brian’s lyrical depth and haunting melodies. With sparse yet evocative arrangements, it was a unique blend of folk and psych influences. Released in August 1969, Hyde received limited promotion, including a few spins on CHUM Radio and a live performance at Toronto’s underground club, Global Village.

Despite its critical potential, the album faded into obscurity, becoming a rare treasure for collectors. Its scarcity and musical brilliance have since earned it cult status among fans of folk-psych music.

Challenges and a Changing Path
After the release of Hyde, Brian faced the harsh realities of the music industry. Opportunities dwindled, and personal struggles took their toll. By the early 1970s, he relocated to Calgary, stepping away from the music scene to focus on a more stable career. For nearly a decade, Brian put his guitar aside, distancing himself from the creative pursuit that had defined much of his youth.

In the 1980s, he returned to Toronto and gradually reconnected with music. By the late 1990s, after retiring to Wasaga Beach, Brian rediscovered his passion for songwriting. He built a home studio and began recording and jamming with friends, reigniting the spark that had driven him decades earlier.

A Legacy Rediscovered
Though Brian Victor Alexander never achieved widespread fame, his album Hyde remains a testament to his talent and artistry. The record, steeped in introspection and poetic lyricism, is a gem of Canada’s 1960s music scene, cherished by collectors and fans alike.

Brian’s story reflects the struggles and triumphs of countless artists who contributed to Canada’s rich musical tapestry. His work, long overlooked, now stands as a reminder of the passion and resilience that defines the human spirit. Through his music, the legacy of Hyde lives on.