Silas Hogan was born on September 15, 1911 in Westover, Louisana and his family moved to Irene, Louisana when Silas was two years old. He learned to play the guitar from his uncles in the late 20's. During the 1930's he performed at local parties, clubs, and picnics. In the late 1950's Hogan formed his own band working local cafes in Baton Rouge, Louisana and during the years 1962-1966 he recorded for the Excello label playing guitar and harmonica. From 1966 until the late 1970's Hogan performed in a trio with Guitar Kelly and Gene Douzier recording for Arhoolie and Excello.
Some of his songs include: Airport Blues, Darks Clouds Rolling, Honey Bee Blues, and Lonesome La La.