Single Premiere: Tony Holiday ‘Shoulda Known Better’
Rock & Blues Muse is pleased to exclusively premiere Tony Holiday’s new single “Shoulda Known Better” from his forthcoming album set to release this winter. Recorded at Robby Krieger’s Love Street Sound (Formerly Horse Latitudes) and produced and engineered by Eric Corne, Holiday and a solid group of top-tier musicians saddled up to the mic and recorded this musical gem featuring guitarist Laura Chavez. The single will be available September 13 via Forty Below Records.
A multi award-winning singer, songwriter and harmonicist, Tony Holiday has been at the epicenter of the soul/blues resurgence in Memphis since relocating there from Salt Lake City in 2017. He has a glowing reputation that grows with each new release. He was mentored by legends, and opened for artists from many genres including Willie Nelson, BB King, Steve Miller Band, Jason Isbell, Blind Boys of Alabama, and Charlie Musselwhite, among others. Tony has also performed with legends such as Bobby Rush, John Nemeth, Guitar Shorty, Samantha Fish, Victor Wainwright and Southern Avenue.
As with his previous projects, Holiday began the creative process with collaboration with other musicians and songwriters. “Shoulda Known Better” was written by guitarist/songwriter A.J. Fullerton and harmonicist/vocalist Jake Friel.
Rich layers of sound conjure both a modern and retro vibe with plenty of groove going on in “Shoulda Known Better.” A natural storyteller, Holiday shares the tale of regretting involvement with a woman whose allure includes scandal and a dash of danger. His vocal is smooth and soulful—you’re right in there from the very first note, wanting to hear more. The horns are delicious, and the guitar strikes it hot.
Tony says, “’Shoulda Known Better’ is a song that is steeped in the Memphis sound with the traditional guitar of Laura Chavez, holding down the cornerstone of holiday’s sound.”
And if you don’t know of Laura Chavez, it’s about time you did. One of the best guitar players around with a sound and phrasing that’s distinct, not unlike Albert Collins. She’s a multi–Blues Music Award-winner too with plenty of street cred.
“Shoulda Known Better”
Pre-save the new single HERE
Tony adds “This song is written by a good friend of mine Jake Friel. It makes me feel like I am back in Memphis in the mid 70s. It really sets the sun on the whole record.”
Included in the impressive lineup for this single is Tony Holiday (vocals), Matt Tecu (drums) Taras Prodaniuk (bass), Jad Tariq (guitar & background vocals), Sasha Smith (keyboards), Eric Corne (BG Vox), Mark Pender (trumpet) and David Ralicke (saxophone.)
Holiday is often referred to as a traditionalist in the approach to harmonica playing, influenced by harmonica giants like Big Walter Horton, Little Walter Jacobs, Kim Wilson, and James Cotton.
Holiday has released the following albums: Porch Sessions (2019), Soul Service (2020), Porch Sessions Vol. 2 (2021) and Motel Mississippi ( 2023). Since releasing Motel Mississippi, an album that entered the Billboard Blues Top 10 three different times, it boasts guests such as Grammy® winners Charlie Musselwhite and Bobby Rush, former Muddy Waters guitarist John Primer, and the iconic Lurie Bell. Also included are some of Holiday’s peers; Southern Avenue, Victor Wainwright, and John Németh. Holiday has been touring hard, and in between, taking the time to write and record with producer Eric Corne.
Tony Holiday website
Leave A Comment