10/10/2026
Happy Birthday Jerry LaCroix
October 10, 1943 ā May 7, 2014
Groves, TX
Jerry Wayne āCount Jacksonā LaCroix was born in Alexandria, Louisiana, in 1943. His family moved to Port Arthur in 1947 and later settled in Groves. He graduated from Port Neches-Groves High School in 1961 and studied music at Lamar State College and the Berklee School of Music in Boston before leaving school to pursue a full-time career on the road.
A powerful vocalist, saxophonist and harmonica player, LaCroix joined the Boogie Kings at just fourteen. Even as a teenager, he became known for his gritty, soulful voice. With the Boogie Kings, he toured extensively, including performances in Europe, Australia and the Philippines, and helped establish the distinctive Gulf Coast sound that became known as āblue-eyed soul.ā
LaCroix later became part of several nationally prominent bands. He performed with Edgar Winter on the albums White Trash and Roadwork, contributing vocals and saxophone to the groupās energetic blend of rock, blues and R&B. Roadwork earned LaCroix a gold record in 1972.
He also sang lead with Rare Earth during a transitional period for the band and later joined Blood, Sweat & Tears, bringing his distinctive raspy vocals and horn playing to their touring lineup. Throughout his career, LaCroix was credited on nine albums released by Epic and Mercury Records.
Known for his commanding stage presence and ability to move easily between vocals, saxophone and harmonica, LaCroix became one of the notable musicians to emerge from Southeast Texas.
In his later years, he continued performing throughout the region at reunions, festivals and special events celebrating Gulf Coast music. His contributions to rock, soul and R&B remain an important part of Southeast Texas musical history.
