**Morgan Freeman to Release ‘Symphonic Blues Experience’ Album This August**
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Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman is set to embark on a musical journey with his upcoming album, “Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience,” which is scheduled for release on August 7 through Decca Records. This project marks a significant foray into the world of music for the 89-year-old star, who is known for his extensive acting career.
The album will feature a captivating collection of 12 tracks that traverse a century of blues music, showcasing contributions from renowned artists such as Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’, Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell, and Shemekia Copeland. The Chineke! Orchestra will also lend its talents to this unique project, enhancing the auditory experience with orchestral arrangements.
Freeman, who serves as both a producer and narrator on the album, reflects on his deep-rooted connection to the blues. He recalls discovering the genre on his grandmother’s porch in the Mississippi Delta, stating, “I heard the blues for the first time on my grandmother’s porch in the Mississippi Delta, and it has never left me.” This personal history underscores the significance of the music to the actor.
To commemorate Juneteenth—an important date recognising the end of slavery in the United States—Freeman released the album’s first single, “Death Letter Blues,” featuring Taj Mahal on lead vocals and guitar. This track, originally recorded in 1965 by Delta blues icon Son House, was chosen to set the tone for the album. Freeman noted, “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.”
The timing of the single’s release holds greater meaning, as Freeman explained, “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.” Eric Meier, another producer behind the album, echoed these sentiments, stating, “This music was born from the same history that Juneteenth commemorates,” and describing the arrangement of “Death Letter Blues” with a full symphony as a groundbreaking and unique experience.
In addition to the album release, Freeman has announced a three-date tour to promote his music. The tour kicks off on August 7 in Houston, followed by performances on September 26 in Memphis and October 17 in Gulfport, Mississippi. This live showcase will give fans the opportunity to experience the symphonic interpretations of blues music in person.
Freeman’s ongoing engagement with various forms of art continues, as he also stars in the Paramount+ series “Lioness.” Furthermore, he has taken on the role of narrator for the Netflix documentary series “The Dinosaurs,” illustrating his versatile talents beyond the realm of acting.
For fans eager to explore the album, the complete tracklist of “Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience” includes a diverse range of songs that illustrate the richness of blues music:
1. Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground – Morgan Freeman featuring 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 – Tiernii Jackson featuring 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
As Freeman ventures into this new realm, fans will eagerly anticipate how his passion for blues will translate into musical form. This album promises not only to be a reflective tribute to a genre with deep American roots but also a testament to Freeman’s enduring charisma and creativity.