Mick Hucknall steps away from Simply Red with ‘Tribute To Bobby’, a collection of soul classics originally recorded by the legendary Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland. After an illustrious career with Simply Red, Hucknall decided to do something different, and last June, he emerged from his home recording studio with a brand new album, a tribute to Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland – one of his heroes and inspirations.
“His music has this sophistication to it, a jazz tinge. There’s also the darkness of his lyrics – Bobby sings with a really twisted pain and sorrow. He’s one of the vocalists who influenced my singing style long before I became a slave to pop success”.
A master class in soul, blues and R&B, Hucknall transforms the thoughtfully selected covers into his own, and succeed in producing an intensely passionate and diverse album.
Produced by long time collaborator Andy Wright, the album is characterised by Hucknall’s striking emotional honesty, musical sincerity and his utterly unique voice. Embracing the spirit of Bobby ‘Blue’ Bland, one of many standout tracks on the album is ‘Stormy Monday Blues’, a thriving journey into the world of jazz and blues.
Other highlights on the album are many and include ‘Cry Cry Cry’, a raw and soulful track that fits Hucknall perfectly. Alongside ‘I’ll Take Care Of You’, ‘I Pity The Fool’, and the stellar ‘Farther Up The Road’ means the album is consistently rewarding and hugely addictive.
Hucknall’s passion and respect for the project is unquestioned “I’m doing this album for myself, it’s my own personal odyssey. I feel more at home here. This is the beginning for me, I hope my old fans come along, and I hope we can make some new friends with it too” he says.
Hucknall also tours the UK and Europe this summer and all dates are on sale now. Full listings, along with ticket information can be found by clicking here.
Hi Mick...I am in Simply Red Heaven today, I ordered 2 dvd's, "Home-Live in Sicily" and "Greatest Video Hits". Now I have 4 Simply Red DVD's. "A stary night with Simply Red is one of my Fav. I love them all and I am looking forward to getting the Tribute to Bobby CD and DVD if one is made! I Simply Love Simply You, Mick!!! Your music just moves me-my husband thinks that I have a crush on you! I Do! Love you always...Deb
Hello Mick, I am excited to let you know that I heard some of your Tribute to Bobby songs on XM Watercolors today. Hope that your sales in the US are good! Alles Gute, Edith
Thanks for adding me - Love your new cd. I have a friend on your side of the pond, near Manchester that bought and sent me this new music. Best wishes for all your future ventures.
There is NO WAY to verbally prove how big a fan I am to you "Mick Hucknall" Sincere Thank You 4adding my Me-ness* Perfect health and continued success. Elon
