“The Blues are alive and well,” declared WBGO in a recent interview. “It’s artists like Sonny Gullage that are carrying the torch.”
Following his interview with WBGO this week, blues singer-songwriter and keyboardist Kevin “Sonny” Gullage has released “Things I Can’t Control,” the latest single from his debut full-length album, ‘Go Be Free.’ Slated for release on August 23rd via the legendary Blind Pig Records and produced by four-time GRAMMY winner and nine-time nominee Tom Hambridge (Buddy Guy, B.B. King, Susan Tedeschi, Delbert McClinton), the album represents the “Next Gen of Bayou Blues,” according to WBGO, veering from “ “funky N’awlins style blues and boogie woogie piano playing to sincere Luther Vandross style-ballads to modern sounding numbers.”
“Things I Can’t Control” is a powerful anthem that resonates with its message of resilience and acceptance. “This song is about focusing on what we can change and letting go of what we can’t,” Sonny shares. “It’s a reminder to live fully and let the music guide us through.” With its soulful melody and heartfelt delivery, Sonny captures the essence of living in the moment and finding peace amidst uncertainty.
The new single follows the release of the album’s title track “Go Be Free.” The song’s accompanying music video follows a young boy’s journey through life’s pivotal moments, showcasing how his understanding of freedom and self-discovery evolves throughout his coming of age. “ “Go Be Free tells the story of my upbringing in the South, growing and finding my way,” Sonny reflects. “Traveling the road of life eventually led me to finding the blues. Many of the greats share their stories of how they found it, whether it was at the crossroads or through someone who did them wrong. For me, I found the blues while I was becoming the man I am today.”
Born with what you might call “blues wisdom,” a mixture of empathy, sensitivity, and keen observational skills, Sonny has always been an old soul. His journey began early, writing his first song about the BP Oil Spill’s devastating effects at just 12 years old. Now at 25, Sonny’s debut album reflects a lifetime immersed in the richness of blues and gospel, influenced deeply by his New Orleans roots and a family steeped in musical tradition. His father, bassist Tony Gullage, has performed with Henry Butler, Dr. John, and other prominent musicians, and his grandmother, Sister Alberta Gullage, released gospel records in the 1960s. Sonny is also believed to be a relative of the legendary Huddie “Lead Belly” Ledbetter.
Sonny’s career took a significant turn when he performed as an artist in residence at B.B. King’s Blues Club in New Orleans. Following the club’s closure during the pandemic, he auditioned for American Idol, advancing to the Showstoppers round. Since then, he has embarked on a robust touring schedule overseas, captivating audiences in the U.S., Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Germany, Slovenia, and Croatia.
‘Go Be Free’ promises to be an inspiring addition to the contemporary blues scene, showcasing Sonny Gullage’s unique talent and deep musical roots. Reflecting on his journey, Sonny says, “I feel like a tree with many roots that include my father, and all the musicians who have inspired me. Now, I’m growing branches, and, hopefully, sharing the blues with the next generation.”
‘Go Be Free’ by Sonny Gullage
1. Just Kiss Me, Baby
2. Go Be Free
3. Things I Can’t Control
4. Separate Ways
5. Worried About the Young (feat. Christone “Kingfish” Ingram)
6. Blues All Over You
7. I’ve Been There
8. Stop That Stuff
9. Tattooed Wings
10. Hot House
11. File It Under Blues
12. Home to You