Morgan Freeman announces Blues Album, releases first single
Los Angeles, June 20
Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman has announced his entry into the music world with the upcoming release of Morgan Freeman's Symphonic Blues Experience, a blues-inspired album that will arrive on August 7 via Decca Records, according to People.
The 89-year-old actor, who serves as producer and narrator on the project, unveiled the album on Friday and simultaneously released its first single, "Death Letter Blues," to mark Juneteenth.
According to a press release, the 12-track album presents a cinematic journey through 100 years of blues music. The project features collaborations with acclaimed musicians including Taj Mahal, Keb' Mo', Lawrence "Boo" Mitchell and Shemekia Copeland, alongside the Chineke! Orchestra.
Reflecting on his lifelong connection to the genre, Freeman said, "I heard the blues for the first time on my grandmother's porch in the Mississippi Delta, and it has never left me."
The album's lead single, "Death Letter Blues," features Taj Mahal on lead vocals and guitar. The song was originally recorded in 1965 by legendary Delta blues musician Son House.
Speaking about the choice of the first release, Freeman said, "Having Taj Mahal kick off this album with a cover of Son House's classic 'Death Letter Blues' strikes the perfect tone for the introduction of this album."
"Releasing this on Juneteenth is not just symbolic -- it is the truth of where this music comes from and who made it. I hope people listen and remember," he added.
Producer Eric Meier also highlighted the significance of releasing the song on Juneteenth.
"Juneteenth felt like the only right date to introduce this powerful single. This music was born from the same history that Juneteenth commemorates," Meier said, according to People.
"'Death Letter Blues' is one of the rawest, most honest pieces in the American songbook, and hearing Taj Mahal inhabit it with a full symphony behind him -- recorded between the hallowed walls of Royal Studios and Abbey Road -- is something that is groundbreaking and unique. We're incredibly proud to introduce our album with this track," he added.
In support of the album, Freeman has also announced a three-city tour. The tour will begin in Houston on August 7, followed by performances in Memphis on September 26 and Gulfport, Mississippi, on October 17, according to People.
Apart from his musical venture, Freeman is currently appearing in the Paramount+ series Lioness and recently narrated Netflix's documentary series The Dinosaurs.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, I'm a bit skeptical. Morgan Freeman has that iconic voice, but making a whole album? Hope it's not just a vanity project. The blues needs authenticity, not a Hollywood actor jumping on the bandwagon. Let's see if the music speaks for itself. 🤔
This is so heartwarming! At his age, he's still creating and sharing his love for music. Reminds me of our own late Ustad Zakir Hussain who kept performing till the end. The blues and Indian classical both have that raw emotional depth. Mad respect for Morgan Freeman! 🙌
Three-city tour at 89! That's incredible dedication. Houston, Memphis, Gulfport - those are the real blues towns. I remember listening to Son House's "Death Letter Blues" during my college days in Delhi, learning about the American civil rights movement. This album is more than music, it's history. Thank you, Mr. Freeman.
Such a brilliant move to release on Juneteenth! As an Indian, I know how important it is to honour the roots of your cultural expressions - like we do with our folk music. The song choice "Death Letter Blues" with Taj Mahal is perfect. This is going to be a masterpiece!
I hope this album introduces blues to a new generation in India too. We have our own blues traditions in folk music - the pain and joy are universal. Freeman's narration could make it accessible. Plus, recording at Abbey Road? That's legendary. Can't wait for
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