Mick Fleetwood and Jake Shimabukuro Team Up for Bluesy New Album
Mick Fleetwood, the legendary drummer and founder of Fleetwood Mac, is set to release a new album this fall, a collaborative effort with ukulele virtuoso and composer Jake Shimabukuro. The album, titled Blues Experience, will be available on October 18.
A Blues Album in the Making
Shimabukuro, who first gained international fame in 2006 with a viral video of him playing George Harrison’s "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" on ukulele, has always wanted to create a blues album. When he started talking with Fleetwood about working together, he knew who better to collaborate with than the iconic drummer.
A Blues Legacy
Fleetwood Mac’s blues roots run deep, with the band’s early years centered around blues and R&B. This new album is a nod to that legacy, with Fleetwood and Shimabukuro putting their own spin on classic blues numbers.
The Tracklisting
The album features new interpretations of classic blues tracks, including "Rollin’ and Tumblin’", "Need Your Love So Bad", and "Whiter Shade of Pale". The album also includes two versions of Fleetwood Mac’s "Songbird", as well as "Rockin’ in the Free World" by Neil Young.
The Blues Experience
Shimabukuro has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Jimmy Buffett, Willie Nelson, and Warren Haynes. He’s also toured with Buffett for three years and has worked with other notable musicians.
Fleetwood’s Endorsement
Fleetwood praised Shimabukuro’s energy and intensity, saying, "Mick’s energy when he plays is so infectious. He’s such an intense musician. He pushes everyone around him, and it’s inspiring to see his facial expressions and watch his movement and the way he hits the drums."
Shimabukuro’s Praise
Shimabukuro echoed Fleetwood’s sentiments, saying, "Mick’s facial expressions and body language are incredible. He’s got this whole aura around him that’s just electric. And when we’re playing together, it’s like we’re in this zone where nothing else matters."
The Album’s Highlights
One standout track is "Rollin’ and Tumblin’", which Shimabukuro describes as a "wake-up call" for the blues standard. Fleetwood added, "Jake and I had a full let-it-all-go moment on this one!!"
Top 40 Blues Rock Albums
Inspired by giants like Muddy Waters, Robert Johnson, and B.B. King, rock artists have put their own spin on the blues. Check out our gallery of the Top 40 Blues Rock Albums for more inspiration.
Conclusion
Blues Experience is a testament to the enduring power of the blues, with Fleetwood and Shimabukuro bringing their unique perspectives to the genre. The album is set to release on October 18, and fans of blues and rock music won’t want to miss it.
FAQs
Q: What is the release date of Blues Experience?
A: The album will be available on October 18.
Q: Who is Jake Shimabukuro?
A: Jake Shimabukuro is a ukulele virtuoso and composer who first gained international fame in 2006 with a viral video of him playing George Harrison’s "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" on ukulele.
Q: What is the tracklisting for Blues Experience?
A: The album features 10 tracks, including "Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers", "Rollin’ N Tumblin’", "Need Your Love So Bad", and more.
Q: Has Mick Fleetwood worked with other artists before?
A: Yes, Fleetwood has collaborated with a wide range of artists, including Jimmy Buffett, Willie Nelson, and Warren Haynes.
