Blues lifer Larry McCray has walked through Heartbreak City and come out with songs that carry both scars and soul. Produced by Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, his new album draws from a lifetime of hard knocks and the fire first lit by his sister Clara. With ‘Heartbreak City,’ out June 13 via KTBA Records, McCray proves once again that he’s singing the blues like he means it.
Author: Bill Graham
Jorma Kaukonen brought his quietly profound presence to Rochester, offering an evening of stripped-down, soul-deep music with longtime friend and collaborator John Hurlbut. Together, they summoned the spirit of Fur Peace Ranch—storytelling through strings, memory through melody.
Joanne Shaw Taylor’s ‘Black & Gold’ explores desire, doubt, and the sting of letting go—woven tightly with a rich blues pulse that grounds every heartfelt confession.
Rooted in Creole tradition but reaching far beyond it, Jeffery Broussard and The Nighttime Syndicate’s album ‘Bayou Moonlight’ honors the past while boldly redefining zydeco with touches of R&B, funk, and soul.
Ranging from reflections on his own birth during a blizzard to exploring themes of homelessness and personal isolation, this new album offers poignant narratives set to a rich musical backdrop. With a rotating cast of talented musicians, Jefferson continues his mission of creating a unique blend of acoustic urban storytelling.
Singer-songwriter/guitarist Nikki O’Neill shares insights on her new album ‘Stories I Only Tell My Friends,’ her personal songwriting journey, and how exploring global cuisines influences her music.
Experience an exclusive first listen to ‘Waiting For The Moon,’ the debut solo album from Captain’s Audio Project — the creative vision of veteran Portland-based songwriter and multi-instrumentalist James Cook. In this interview, James delves into the inspiration behind his songs, which weave together themes of nature, love, and personal stories, all wrapped in the distinct sound of Captain’s Audio Project.
On February 3, 1959, Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, J.P. “The Big Bopper” Richardson, and pilot Roger Peterson died in a plane crash after a performance in Iowa. Their deaths left a lasting impact on those close to them. Family, friends, and bandmates carried the weight of grief and regret for years. While the tragedy marked a turning point for rock and roll, the music and memory of these young stars endured, shaping the future of the genre in ways no one could have predicted.
As news of the tragic plane crash spread, the Winter Dance Party tour continued in the shadow of loss. From confusion over who was on the flight to the emotional toll on those left behind, the show had to go on. But for many, the music would never be the same.
The stars of the Winter Dance Party took the stage at the Surf Ballroom, unaware that for some, it would be their final performance. Amid the tour’s hardships, a decision was made that would change rock ‘n’ roll history forever—setting the stage for a fateful flight.