Blues ‘enthusiast’ Morgan Freeman’s album covers 100 years of the genre

In Clarksdale, Mississippi, in 1998, Morgan Freeman was asked by out-of-towners where they could hear blues music. Musicians were present, but venues were scarce. Freeman, alongside his partners, decided to establish the Ground Zero Blues Club to fulfill this need. Years later, they formed the "Morgan Freeman's Symphonic Blues Experience," a touring ensemble that combines blues with classical symphonic compositions.

Freeman, while not claiming to be an aficionado, sees himself as an enthusiast of the genre. The album, due for release on Friday, features performances by renowned artists like Taj Mahal, Keb' Mo', and Shemekia Copeland, among others. Freeman narrates the album, describing blues as "America's music" and emphasizing its importance in conveying the hardships and resilience of people.

The final song pays tribute to modern-day blues with a cover of Raphael Saadiq and Ludwig Göransson's "I Lied to You." Freeman hopes the album will help keep the blues alive and appreciated for years to come.