Five-time Grammy-nominated guitarist Kenny Wayne Shepherd has officially released his much-awaited studio album, ‘Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol. 1,’ available Now for purchase and on all digital platforms. Brimming with a unique blend of blues fused with contemporary sounds, the album is a sonic treat for Shepherd’s followers and blues enthusiasts alike. In tandem with the album’s release, Shepherd also presents the lyric video for its lead single and title track, “Dirt On My Diamonds,” offering a visual dimension to his latest musical exploration.
“Dirt On My Diamonds,” the album’s title track, serves as a narrative of Shepherd’s evolving musical voyage, seamlessly merging modern flair with the traditional roots of blues. Written at the iconic FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, this track, alongside others in the album, eloquently speaks of life’s intricate tapestry – the intertwining of loss, love, and redemption. Each song on the album is a reflection of Shepherd’s depth and versatility as an artist, as he delves into the complexities and emotions that shape human experiences.
In ‘Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol. 1’, Shepherd ventures beyond the conventional borders of the blues genre, interweaving modern soundscapes with socio-political narratives, while maintaining the authentic spirit of blues. The album, described by Shepherd as a “moment in time,” reflects his journey and growth as an artist, featuring stories of personal significance. The crafting of this album, as Shepherd has articulated, is not just about music, but about embracing life’s imperfections and finding beauty therein. This philosophy shines through the entire album, particularly in tracks like “Sweet & Low” and the thought-provoking “Best of Times.” With ‘Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol. 1,’ Shepherd continues to redefine and push the boundaries of what blues music can be.
Shepherd’s upcoming touring plans promise to bring the new album’s dynamic energy to life on stage. Following the release of ‘Dirt On My Diamonds, Vol. 1,’ Shepherd will embark on a series of live performances, beginning on February 6th at the Hard Rock Live in Orlando, FL. This tour, including stops at renowned venues such as the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, TN, and the iconic Beacon Theatre in New York City, is set to showcase the raw and captivating essence of Shepherd’s latest work to audiences across various cities.
Since the release of his debut album, 1995’s ‘Ledbetter Heights,’ this multi-platinum bandleader still sounds like the future of the blues. Approach ‘Dirt On My Diamonds Volume 1’ expecting autopilot twelve-bars and you’ll instead be thrown a volley of curveballs, from the modern urban edge of its lead singles to the speaker-tearing production from Shepherd and producer Marshall Altman. “Working with Marshall, it’s like any productive relationship,” considers the guitarist. “We put our strengths together and push each other.”
Throughout, as the album title suggests, the grit and emotional honesty of these new songs is prized above guitar pyrotechnics (even for one of the modern scene’s most valuable players). Of the ‘Dirt On My Diamonds’ guiding philosophy, “Life has imperfections, and I actually prefer it that way. The imperfections are what make it interesting.”
With material this strong, no polish was needed. As on any KWS album, songs are the currency, and the seven originals from ‘Dirt On My Diamonds Volume 1’ demand to be heard, lifting listeners above their circumstances at a time when life often feels bleak and bone-raw. “I didn’t want this record to be dark or dreary,” considers Shepherd. “There’s not a lot of incredibly heart-wrenching or difficult subject matter…My goal is always to make music that makes people feel good, regardless of what it’s about.”
For more information and to purchase tickets to Shepherd’s upcoming tour dates, please visit
https://www.kennywayneshepherd.net/
