Tinsley Ellis debuts new “Too Broke” single and music video

edge,” Ellis explains. “For me, playing this music is a labor of love. I sat at the feet of Muddy Waters, B.B. King, Howlin’ Wolf. I got into this music because of them. I always told myself if I could make a living playing the blues, I’d be successful.”

Premier Guitar hails Ellis as a legend of American blues music. They describe him as an American music treasure, delivering a sermon on the power and glory of the blues, making him one of modern blues’ greatest performers.

Ellis’ new album, Labor Of Love, is a significant milestone in his career. A raw and edgy collection of 13 original compositions, all performed with genuine emotional honesty, the album tells modern tales of floods, conflagrations, voodoo spirits, personal struggles, and prayers. From the intense opening track Hoodoo Woman to the groove of “Long Time” and the haunting “To A Hammer,” Ellis’s performances showcase his depth of experience and wisdom gained over his four-decade-long journey in the music industry.

During a pause in recording, Ellis embarked on a musical pilgrimage to Bentonia, Mississippi, the birthplace of Skip James and home to blues legend Jimmy “Duck” Holmes. Immersing himself in the culture and spirit of this Delta town, Ellis performed at Holmes’ Blue Front Café, absorbing the essence of genuine Bentonia blues. This experience profoundly influenced his music-making process, infusing his songs with a newfound depth and authenticity.

Experimenting with six different open tunings on his vintage guitars, including his cherished 1969 Martin D-35 and 12-string Martin D-12-20, Ellis also ventured into new territory by incorporating the mandolin on three tracks. The diverse instrumentation and tunings opened up endless creative possibilities for Ellis, keeping him constantly inspired and refreshed by the music he creates.

Taking his solo, acoustic blues act on the road with the “Two Guitars And A Car” tour, Ellis explores the raw essence of his art, allowing for a more expressive and emotional connection with his audience. The stripped-down nature of these performances highlights Ellis’s love for the acoustic guitar and enables him to delve deeper into the soul of the music.

Reflecting on his musical journey, Ellis emphasizes the importance of maintaining an edge in his sound. Rooted in the influence of blues legends like Muddy Waters and B.B. King, Ellis views playing the blues as a labor of love, a testament to his dedication and passion for the genre. His commitment to authenticity and emotion in his music has solidified his status as a revered figure in American blues.

As fans eagerly anticipate the release of Labor Of Love, Tinsley Ellis continues to captivate audiences with his raw and powerful performances, showcasing the timeless allure of the blues genre. With his unwavering dedication to his craft and a deep-rooted love for the music, Ellis remains a beacon of inspiration in the world of modern blues.