Award-winning Chicago bluesman Toronzo Cannon and his band, The Chicago Way, are set to ignite the UK blues scene in January 2025. With four live performances lined up to celebrate his latest Alligator Records release, Shut Up & Play!, Cannon is ready to deliver his signature blend of raw emotion, powerful storytelling, and blistering guitar work to fans across the country.
A Master of Modern Blues
Cannon has established himself as a leading light in contemporary blues, drawing inspiration from legends like Hound Dog Taylor, Muddy Waters, and Jimi Hendrix. With Shut Up & Play!, he blazes his own trail, showcasing 11 emotionally charged originals that range from deeply personal reflections to light-hearted storytelling. Each track is infused with Cannon’s cathartic guitar solos and impassioned vocals, offering listeners a vibrant slice of modern blues.
Songs like the attention-grabbing “I Hate Love,” the gospel-inspired “Had To Go Through It To Get To It,” and the reflective “Guilty” highlight Cannon’s ability to tackle universal emotions with authenticity and depth. Whether exploring heartbreak, humour, or societal struggles, Cannon’s lyrics are as impactful as his fiery guitar work.
“I write what I know, what I feel,” Cannon explains. “This record is about the things going on in my life since 2019—it’s a document of what I’ve seen and been through, but the stories are universal. And it’s my way to get past negative things and keep my own sanity.”
UK Performance Dates
Fans in the UK will have the chance to experience Cannon’s electrifying live performances at the following events:
- January Blues Festival: Chicago Blues Explosion!
- Venue: 229, London
- Dates: Thursday, January 16 & Friday, January 17, 2025
- Showtime: 7:00 pm
- Details: www.seetickets.com/tour/january-blues-festival
- Devizes International Blues Festival
- Venue: Corn Exchange, Devizes
- Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
- Event Time: 2:00 pm
- Details: www.longstreetbluesclub.co.uk
- The 1st Kent International Blues Festival
- Venue: The Appleyard, Sittingbourne
- Date: Sunday, January 19, 2025
- Doors: 1:00 pm
- Details: www.thebournemusicclub.co.uk
The Heart of Chicago Blues
A former Chicago Transit Authority bus driver, Cannon’s journey from the streets of Chicago to international stages is a testament to his dedication to the blues. His live performances are legendary, blending searing guitar solos with charismatic storytelling that resonates deeply with audiences.
Gary Clark, Jr. calls him “a beast,” while Joe Bonamassa describes him as “a great guitar player, excellent vocalist, and an amazing personality.” Cannon’s accolades include ten Blues Music Award nominations and performances across the US, Europe, Canada, Japan, and China. His appearances at the Chicago Blues Festival—ten and counting—are a testament to his enduring appeal.
A Love Letter to Chicago
For Cannon, the blues isn’t just music; it’s a way of life. “People get used to everyday life, so it’s easy to miss the things around them,” he says. “I know the problems of Chicago, the hardships. I write about those things. But I love my city, warts and all.”
With Shut Up & Play!, Cannon solidifies his place as an ambassador for Chicago blues. “It’s not about the solos,” he insists. “It’s about the songs.” And with songs that speak to the heart of human experience, Cannon ensures that the blues continues to choose him, just as he chooses to share its power with the world.
Don’t miss the chance to see Toronzo Cannon live in the UK this January. Prepare for a night of unforgettable blues brilliance that will leave you wanting more.
