Keb’ Mo’ – “Louder”
YOUTUBE.COM
An uplifting video from Blues legend Keb’ Mo’ to start this week off right. An anthem/message to us all that the young generation has what it takes to do what it takes. (Hope so, fingers crossed.)
Blues Blast Music Awards Submissions Open
BLUESBLASTMAGAZINE.COM
If you’re a Blues artist (independent or on a label) or you know someone who is, now’s the time to submit your music for consideration for the Blues Blast Music Awards. Then the nominators do the nominating and the fans do the voting. Submissions are open until May 31st. (It’s all so democratic.)
Larry McCray – Blues Without You
JOEBONAMASSA.COM
Here’s a gem of an album. But then why wouldn’t it be? Larry McCray’s got the guitar chops, the singing chops, the writing chops, and the experience to pull it all together into something delightful. Add in some terrific guest stars and top-notch production and you got the makings for some happy ears. (You’ll like this one.)
Robin Trower – “The Razor’s Edge”
YOUTUBE.COM
77 years old and still playing guitar like a youngster. That’s Robin Trower. Got that classic Trower Tone that just bites you in a good way. If this is a sample of his upcoming album (No More Worlds To Conquer) then I’m gonna like it.
Guitar Is King: An Interview With Blues Rock Guitarist Tinsley Ellis
POPMATTERS.COM
Blues-Rock guitarist Tinsley Ellis talks about the influential bands that bridged the gap between the Blues (his love) and Rock ’n’ Roll (his heritage). And after 50 years in the game, he has some stories to tell.
Beverly “Guitar” Watkins – In Paris
NEONCRM.COM
Something for the true Blues lover – an album from the late, great Beverly “Guitar” Watkins. It’s a live album from a gig she played in Paris, in 2012. She was in her 70’s when she recorded this. But I’ll bet you’d never know. (Go ahead, bet me.)
Dion – “If You Wanna Rock ‘N’ Roll”
YOUTUBE.COM
I imagine Dion’s rolodex (hah) must be huge. Every time I look up, he seems to be recording with another great guest star. This time it’s Eric Clapton, but you only get to hear Eric on this one. (Clever marketing from the Wanderer.)
Spotlight On Taj Mahal
YELLOWSCENE.COM
In the annals of Blues history, you’d be hard-pressed to find a living legend who compares to the inimitable Taj Mahal. With almost 50 studio albums to his name dating back to his eponymous debut in 1968, he’s etched his name onto the Mount Rushmore of the art form. (Deep dive interview.)
Albert Castiglia – I Got Love
ALBERTCASTIGLIA.NET
The latest album from Albert Castiglia is 47 minutes of in-your-face Blues Rock. There’s so much energy on this record, you might break a sweat just listening. Albert shreds at full speed and the rhythm section has no trouble keeping up. (This one will keep you moving.)
ATWB New Blues Playlist
SPOTIFY.COM
Updates to the ATWB New Blues Playlist this week. Names you know, like Popa Chubby, Edgar Winter, and Larry McCray – plus some new ones you maybe should know. Enjoy em’ all on Spotify — and please Follow or Share.
Jon Beres
I’m one part Blues Fan and one part Digital Native (with a dash of Curmudgeon.) I’m also the publisher of AlltheWayBlue.com. If you love the Blues, I have a feeling we’ll get along just fine - cheers!
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