(headline image; Ronnie Baker Brooks – photo by Jim Summaria)
Blues-rock guitarist and vocalist Ronnie Baker Brooks is set to release a live performance video of the song “Blues In My DNA,” the lead single from his upcoming album of the same name, Blues In My DNA. The new record, which marks Brooks’ debut with Alligator Records, will be available on October 11. Known for his fiery guitar work and soulful songwriting, Brooks’ fifth album showcases his unique blend of blues, rock, funk, and soul.
Recorded live on July 16 in Chicago, the video captures Brooks performing in front of an energetic, engaged crowd. Over the coming months, he will release five additional live videos, each featuring a track from Blues In My DNA. The release schedule includes: “All True Man” on October 18, “My Love Will Make You Do Right” on November 1, “Accept My Love” on November 15, “I’m Feelin’ You” on November 29, and “Stuck On Stupid” on December 13.
Brooks describes the title track, “Blues In My DNA,” as a deeply personal, autobiographical song that connects him with his audience. The heartfelt lyrics speak to overcoming obstacles like racism and poverty, while the powerful guitar solos drive the emotion. “I ain’t complaining, I’m just explaining,” Brooks sings, declaring that “I got love in my blood, the blues in my DNA.”
Produced by Jim Gaines, renowned for his work with Santana, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and others, the album takes listeners through a range of styles, from upbeat funk-rock to soulful ballads and anthemic blues. Each of the 11 original tracks represents a new chapter in Brooks’ musical journey.
For Brooks, son of blues legend Lonnie Brooks, the songwriting process for Blues In My DNA was just as thrilling as performing live, reflecting both his heritage and his forward-thinking approach to the genre.