Morgan Freeman Brings Lifelong Love of The Blues
Oscar-winner Morgan Freeman brings his lifelong love of the Delta Blues to a new full-length collection out today, celebrating the genre as “a testament to the unbroken human spirit, the sound of America’s past and present, and the heartbeat of a culture that refused to be forgotten.” Within the 12 songs of ‘Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience,’ a 100-year journey unfolds through the genre – tracing its history from Blind Willie Johnson’s 1927 masterpiece “Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground” to “I Lied to You” from the Sinners soundtrack. The results have been praised by media outlets from CNN to NPR Music to Complex, with Freeman and producer Eric Meier recently discussing the album with Rolling Stone, the Associated Press and Morning Joe.
Joining Freeman (who serves as narrator and producer) for this one-of-a-kind project are blues luminaries Taj Mahal, Keb’ Mo’, Lawrence “Boo” Mitchell and Shemekia Copeland – four musicians and producers with a collective haul of 42 GRAMMY nominations and 12 wins. Also featured on ‘Morgan Freeman’s Symphonic Blues Experience’ are some of Mississippi’s finest present-day players – many of whom are regulars at Ground Zero Blues Club, which Freeman co-founded 25 years ago in Clarksdale – as a way to provide the blues a home where it all began. Joining all together at Mitchell’s hallowed Royal Studios in Memphis, Tennessee, their sound is complemented by the orchestral sweep of Chineke! Orchestra – Europe’s pioneering majority-Black and ethnically diverse ensemble – who recorded their contributions under renowned music director, conductor, and producer Martin Gellner at Abbey Road Studios in London.
In addition to his work at Ground Zero Blues Club, Freeman also co-founded the Ground Zero Arts Foundation – dedicated to preserving the blues in Mississippi and aiding local artists through economic support, healthcare services, and much more. All proceeds from this new album will benefit this important organization.