We recently had the chance to dive into a compilation work from the incredible indie label Bongo Boy Records that featured an exquisite collection of modern, underground blues music – Backroom Blues Vol. Ten. Today we’re taking a deeper look at a new single just released by one of the standout artists on this project, Sheba The Mississippi Queen. The second single premiering ahead of her upcoming album, I Wanna Know is a truly authentic, soulful, gritty track that embodies all that there is to love about blues music being made today.
I Wanna Know starts with the kind of guitar riff that instantly sets the tone for the entire song; it’s lonesome, twangy, syncopated, and raw. The band joins in with unhurried, relaxed energy that simply personifies the genre. But it quickly becomes clear that this is just a show of restraint rather than a lack of skill – the guitar solo that kicks in around the two-minute mark should convince you of that. All around, this is honest-to-God blues music, from production through performance from every player, and in a world of autotune and synthesizers, it’s a breath of fresh air.
Sheba’s voice is most definitely a highlight of this production. Her bold, powerhouse vocals are truly the heart of this track, bringing smokiness and lighting a fire beneath the otherwise uncomplicated production. Her growls, her complex vocal runs – it’s the perfect blend of swampy and soulfulness.
If there are artists still making what experts might call “real” blues music today, Sheba The Mississippi Queen undoubtedly belongs on that list. I Wanna Know is quintessential classic blues with plenty of musicality and definitive skill that will allow this music to resonate with both genre purists and casual enthusiasts alike. If you’re into this authentic, genuine sound, there’s plenty more where this came from coming soon – Sheba’s full-length album will be released on August 27th, 2021 on Bongo Boy Records.
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BELOW: Listen to I Wanna Know and connect with her website and social media platforms. Please support Sheba The Mississippi Queen by visiting her online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing her music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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