“The Blues is My Biography” is a fitting debut release for Rosa’s Lounge Records in many ways. Billy Branch graced Rosa’s stage on the very first day it opened four decades ago and has been a frequent performer ever since. But also, this album resonates with our mission. It’s a powerful commentary on today’s sociopolitical issues as well as a heartfelt celebration of the genre and Billy’s unique place in the Chicago blues community.
Born in Chicago and raised in L.A., Billy grew up listening to everything from Motown and James Brown to the Doors and Jimi Hendrix. His unconventional background and diverse musical tastes give “The Blues Is My Biography” a well-rounded cohesiveness that befits this extraordinary vehicle for R&B and Chicago blues.
The album title reveals the personal depth and autobiographical nature of this record. But it’s also a showcase for Billy’s unique observations on the world we live in today. A political science major in college, he deftly uses music to weave together social commentary and his own lived experiences.
Produced by legendary songwriter and arranger Larry Batiste, the album was recorded at Infinite Studios in Alameda, California, and JoyRide Studio in Chicago. Billy sings and plays harmonica throughout but the album is also packed with special guests.
The opening number combines the funk-blues swagger of Bobby Rush’s vocals with Billy’s classic Chicago blues stylings. It’s a high-energy track that celebrates both the legendary figures of the blues and its legions of fans, concluding, “if you don't love the blues, you got a hole in your soul.”
Shemekia Copeland contributes her earthshaking vocals to the timely track, “Begging for Change,” backed up by the Chicago West Community Music Youth Choir. Also, Ronnie Baker Brooks lends his voice and sizable guitar skills to this rousing song questioning the economic systems that hinder human connection.
There’s too much excellent music on “The Blues Is My Biography” to dissect each track. But if you’re looking for a few deep dives into the record, check out the glowing reviews the album has received so far from an international cadre of music journalists.
This is the sixteenth record Billy has recorded with The Sons of Blues since 1977. The current lineup includes drummers Dionte “McMusik” Skinner and Andrew “Blaze” Thomas, keyboardist Sumito “Ariyo” Ariyoshi, bassist Ari Seder, and guitarists Giles Corey and Troy Lamkus. Get your copy of our first run before it sells out!
