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For Albert Cummings, the year has already been a monumental success. The blues singer-songwriter released his latest album, Strong, in February via Ivy Music Company. The release of that record has been met with nothing but critical and commercial praise. In fact, Strong debuted at #1 on the Billboard Blues Chart, a massive success for an artist who seems to get better with every passing album. Strong features a dynamic blend of blues, rock, and raw emotion that endears Cummings to his fans. Featuring twelve new tracks, the album is a showcase for his still-evolving songwriting talents. Strong’s guitar playing is one of the highlights of this record, paying homage to the blues greats that have preceded him.

Thematically, Strong is a sonic exploration of life’s many highs and lows. It touches on the trials and tribulations of love and heartbreak. It’s all delivered with a raw intensity that Cummings has become known for over the years. The album features several rousing guitar solos and some of Cummings’ most soulful lyrics. It all speaks to the passion and dedication that Cummings and his band always ensure to pour into the recording process.

Cummings joins us today for a chat about his music, his career, and his feelings on the current status of the blues as a genre.

“I’m not sure if this was criticism or advice. I remember when I first started out, I wanted to play at this venue really badly. I finally got a gig there, and when we played it, there was only one guy who was there the entire night. After the gig, I went and sat with him, and he could sense that I was really bummed out.

“He told me that I have to learn to play to the chairs. It was totally what I needed to hear. To me,, it means that it doesn’t matter how many people are in the audience. You have to give your all whether there is one or 10,000 people. You have to play like it’s your last chance ever and learn not to worry about anything else.”