Boz Scaggs Announces ‘Detour,’ First New Album in Seven Years
Boz Scaggs is making a remarkable return with the announcement of his first new studio album in seven years, entitled Detour. Due to be released on October 17, 2025, through Concord Records, this captivating and introspective album delves into the Great American Songbook and blends Scaggs’s musical prowess with a sense of profound emotional depth. The first single from the album, a newly arranged rendition of his fan favorite track “I’ll Be Long Gone” from his 1969 self-titled debut, is already available.
This unexpected detour into the realm of timeless standards showcases Scaggs’s Grammy-winning talents in a new light at the age of 81. Initially, the album wasn’t conceived as a planned project but rather as a casual exploration of beloved musical styles. Scaggs reflects on the origins of the album, stating, “I had no intention of making a record when I started singing these songs…it was all very casual at first, an opportunity to explore a style of music I’ve always liked, to get together with a friend and play for the sheer joy of it.”
His friend and collaborator, pianist Seth Asarnow, played a pivotal role in the album’s creation and development. From the outset, their informal sessions evolved into something truly extraordinary. The evolution of these performances and arrangements, blending the familiar with the obscure, bore undeniable artistry that demanded to be shared with the world. The outcome is a harmonious medley of reinterpretations that pay homage to legends such as Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald while also embracing the spirit of Irma Thomas and Lonnie Johnson, among others. Detour stands as a testament to Scaggs’s ability to infuse classics with a fresh perspective, bridging the old with the new in a seamless and elegant manner.
Scaggs, recognizing his voice as his primary instrument, respects its evolution and growth over the years. From the tender opening notes of Allen Toussaint’s “It’s Raining” to a contemplative rendition of “The Very Thought Of You”, Scaggs’s voice not only reflects his musical journey but also marks a seamless fusion of timeless melodies with contemporary sensibilities. The album’s production was helmed by J. Michael Rodriguez and Seth Asarnow, with Chris Tabarez serving as executive producer. The contributions of Asarnow, along with talented musicians like Hans Trowsea, Jason Lewis, and Jim Cox, weave a tapestry of sound that underscores Scaggs’s vocal artistry.
As Scaggs reflects on his musical journey and influences, he credits his early exposure to rock and roll icons like Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley, as well as R&B and soul luminaries such as Marvin Gaye and Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland. Nevertheless, jazz and standards held a special allure for him, leading to the creation of a deeply personal album like Detour.
With Detour, Boz Scaggs invites listeners to embark on a musical journey that transcends time and genre, blending the past with the present in a harmonious exploration of the classics. This album promises to be a testament to Scaggs’s enduring artistry and the timeless allure of the Great American Songbook.