Morgan Freeman Ventures into Music with New Blues Album Featuring Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo'
Veteran actor Morgan Freeman is expanding his extensive career into the music industry with the upcoming release of his debut album, "Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience." The 12-song LP, set to launch on August 7, delves into a century of blues music, showcasing Freeman's passion for the genre.
The album boasts an impressive lineup of guest artists, including blues legends Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’, and Shemekia Copeland, alongside Anthony Big A Sherrod, Chineke!
Orchestra, and Lady Adrena.
A preview of the album is available with the release of Freeman and Taj Mahal's collaboration on the Son House classic, “Death Letter Blues.”
Freeman shared his personal connection to the blues, stating, “I heard the blues for the first time on my grandmother’s porch in the Mississippi Delta, and it has never left me.” He emphasized the significance of Taj Mahal's contribution to the album's introduction and the deliberate timing of its announcement.
## Juneteenth Release and Historical Context
The album's announcement on Juneteenth is a conscious decision, highlighting the historical roots of the music.
Freeman noted, "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.”
Album producer Eric Meier echoed this sentiment, explaining that the music was born from the same history that Juneteenth commemorates.
Meier described “Death Letter Blues” as a raw and honest piece of American music, praising the unique experience of hearing Taj Mahal perform it with a full symphony, recorded at Royal Studios and Abbey Road.
## Supporting Tour and Continued Acting Career
To support the album, a three-date tour has been scheduled.
It will commence on August 7 in Houston, followed by a performance in Memphis on September 26, and concluding in Gulfport, Mississippi, on October 17.
Despite his foray into music, Freeman is not stepping away from his acting career.
He continues his role as the U.S.
Secretary of State in the Paramount+ series *Lioness* and recently narrated the Netflix documentary series *The Dinosaurs*.
## "Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience" Track List:
1.
“Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground” – Morgan Freeman ft.
Keith Johnson
2.
“Crossroads” – Super Chikan
3.
“Death Letter Blues” – Taj Mahal
4.
“Dust My Broom” – Lady Adrena
5.
“The Thrill Is Gone” – Alvin Youngblood Hart
6.
“Cadillac Assembly Line” – Keb’ Mo’
7.
“Somebody’s Knockin’” – Anthony Big A Sherrod
8.
“Traveling Riverside Blues” – Shemekia Copeland
9.
“I’ll Take You There” – Tierinii Jackson ft.
Stax Music Academy Choir
10.
“Love Me or Leave Me” – Anthony Big A Sherrod
11.
“Someday” – Anthony Big A Sherrod
12.
“I Lied To You” – Keith Johnson
Key points
- Morgan Freeman is releasing his debut album, "Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience," which is a 12-song LP exploring 100 years of blues music.
- The album features guest appearances from notable blues artists including Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’, and Shemekia Copeland.
- The album's announcement on Juneteenth is intentional, with Freeman stating the music's origins are tied to the history commemorated by the holiday.