McKinley James Redefines Blues with Debut Album Working Class Blues

By Ace Hartmann | Racketeer Broadcast Association  |

McKinley James is an artist who seamlessly merges the past and present, creating a unique sound that is both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary. In a year marked by musical innovation and a revival of old-school sounds, McKinley James has made a powerful statement with his latest album, Working Class Blues. Released last month, James introduces a blend of American rock & roll, amplified soul, and raw rhythm & blues, breathing new life into classic sounds of American blue-collar life, blending raw emotion with the grit and soul of traditional blues.

Armed with an electric guitar and sharp songwriting chops, James has crafted an album that is powered by groove and guitar. Working Class Blues showcases his ability to infuse traditional blues and soul with a modern twist, resulting in a sound that is as fresh as it is familiar. “We’re not trying to sound old-school,” says McKinley, who grew up watching his father play drums for acts like Los Straitjackets and JD McPherson. “We love traditional blues and soul, but this isn’t a retro act. The topics, themes, and songs are always fresh.”

James’ longtime bandmate and father, Jason Smay, plays a significant role in the album’s creation. Together, they rewrite the rulebook for blues-inspired rock duos, crafting a lean, honest version of American roots music. Their collaboration blends Motown hooks with roadhouse boogie-woogie, creating a sound that transcends genres and generations. This father-son dynamic has been honed by countless shows, from dive bar residences in Nashville to headlining gigs across Europe.

The album’s lead single, “Movin’,” captures the essence of James’ style, nailing a standard blues tempo that could easily be mistaken for an obscurity from the Fabulous Thunderbirds or Jimmie Vaughan. The track highlights James’ soulful voice and electrifying guitar skills, elements that have rapidly gained him recognition in the music world. Blues Matters praised the single, noting how James “seamlessly blends the raw energy of rock ‘n’ roll with the deep, emotive undertones of classic blues.”

James’ talents have not gone unnoticed. Esteemed guitarist JD McPherson shared his admiration, saying, “I’ve known McKinley since he was knee-high to a grasshopper. He’s one of my favorite guitarists on the planet, an uncanny hybrid of Steve Cropper’s impeccable economy and Link Wray’s reckless abandon. While his guitar has been cutting heads for years (he’s now 22), I think his songwriting skill might be the blade to keep an eye on.”

Dan Auerbach, known for his work with The Black Keys, also praised James, stating, “In a town known for its musicians, McKinley James truly stands out to me as both a guitar slinger and a damn fine singer and songwriter. He’s an old soul at just 22—he lives it and breathes it, and that’s why I think his music feels so genuine and so undeniably fresh.”

With Working Class Blues, McKinley James is poised to make a significant impact on the music scene. His ability to blend the contemporary with the classic, erasing the lines between genre and generation, sets him apart as an artist to watch. As he continues to tour and gain recognition, there is no doubt that James will continue to push the boundaries of blues and rock ‘n’ roll.

For more information on McKinley James and his upcoming tour dates, visit his official website.

McKinley James

Working Class Blues

A1 Movin’
A2 Get To My Baby
A3 Always On My Mind
A4 Just A Little Bit
A5 Crazy Over You
B1 Leadin’ Me On
B2 Call Me Lonesome
B3 Stay With You
B4 Say Goodbye
B5 Wait And See
B6 Till It’s Gone