Larry McCray Blues Without You

Poised to become a genre-shaping staple with the release of two major label albums in the 90's, rustbelt Blues singer and guitarist Larry McCray proves he's been hiding in plain sight with the release of his first album in nearly seven years, Blues Without You. Produced by blues-rock titan Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, the 12-track collection will be released via Bonamassa's Keeping the Blues Alive Records (KTBA Records). The album also features performances by Bonamassa, Warren Haynes, Joanna Connor, and Reese Wynans.

"Writing this album made me feel proud, as it allows others to see me as more than a blues musician," shares McCray. "The songs are reflective of my broad taste in music styles and the subject matter, although personal at times, is relatable to anyone's life. Hopefully, the words and message of the songs will help others express their feelings in a similar synopsis. I feel totally reborn, with a whole new career, and I'm optimistic about what the future holds. But truthfully speaking, sometimes I do wish it would have happened 30 years ago. I would have been much more qualified for the job at that age than at 62."

Lead single "Arkansas," is a charging ode to McCray's childhood in his home state and an anthem for those who grew up similarly. "This song is a reminder of my childhood, growing up in rural Arkansas in the 60's," elaborates McCray. "Feeding hogs, bailing straw, amongst all the other chores that a kid of that generation had to perform, and still, we found a way to find the joy and make it seem as though it was no work at all. I hope the people can feel that spirit when they listen to this music that was born from a generation whose prime has long come to pass."