Miss Freddye’s latest single, “Let It Burn,” is a powerful return for Pittsburgh’s “Lady of the Blues.” The song, released in January, marks her first new music in two years and continues her legacy of heartfelt blues with a modern edge.
“Let It Burn” immediately grabs the listener with its raw and authentic blues sound. Recorded at Red Caimen Studios with engineer Hollis Greathouse, the track features a robust arrangement that underscores Miss Freddye’s commanding vocal presence. The song’s instrumentation—Greg “Gman” Casile’s gritty guitar work, Bob “Bobby Deal” Powers’ evocative lap steel guitar, Greg “Big Z” Sejko’s deep basslines, and Tim “Micky D” McDermott’s steady drumming—creates a rich tapestry that complements Miss Freddye’s voice perfectly.
Miss Freddye’s vocal performance on “Let It Burn” is nothing short of mesmerizing. Her voice carries the weight of the blues tradition, echoing influences like Koko Taylor and Etta James while maintaining a distinct style that is all her own. The lyrics, penned by Jesse Landers, explore themes of passion and desire with a poetic intensity. Lines like “There’s a heat between us, there’s no denying” and “I know I feel it too, the fire that burns inside of you” are delivered with a fiery conviction that brings the song’s narrative to life.
The song’s chorus, “Let it burn, let it burn, just let it burn,” is both a plea and an affirmation, encapsulating the raw emotion at the song’s core. Miss Freddye’s ability to convey deep feeling through her voice makes “Let It Burn” a standout track that resonates on a visceral level. The interplay between the lyrics and the band’s dynamic performance creates an immersive listening experience that captures the essence of blues music.
“Let It Burn” is a testament to Miss Freddye’s enduring talent and her commitment to the blues. It’s a song that not only honors the genre’s roots but also pushes it forward, ensuring its relevance in the modern musical landscape. Fans of Miss Freddye and blues enthusiasts alike will find much to appreciate in this passionate, soulful release.
For those who enjoy the rich, emotive power of Miss Freddye, I recommend diving into O.V. Wright’s “A Nickel and a Nail and Ace of Spades.” This 1971 album is a gem in the soul-blues genre, showcasing Wright’s incredible vocal talent and emotional depth.
Here is a themed playlist inspired by Miss Freddye’s “Let It Burn,” featuring powerful blues tracks that capture the raw emotion and soulful intensity of the genre:
- Koko Taylor – “Wang Dang Doodle”
- Etta James – “I’d Rather Go Blind”
- Big Mama Thornton – “Ball and Chain”
- Muddy Waters – “Mannish Boy”
- Buddy Guy – “Feels Like Rain”
- Howlin’ Wolf – “Spoonful”
- John Lee Hooker – “Boom Boom”
- B.B. King – “The Thrill Is Gone”
- Albert King – “Born Under a Bad Sign”
- Etta James – “At Last”
- Susan Tedeschi – “It Hurt So Bad”
- Bonnie Raitt – “I Can’t Make You Love Me”
This playlist includes a mix of classic and contemporary blues tracks, ensuring a soulful journey that aligns with the spirit of Miss Freddye’s new single. Enjoy the music!