British blues-rock powerhouse Joanne Shaw Taylor is set to make waves once again with the release of her highly anticipated 10th studio album, Black & Gold, arriving on 6th June via Joe Bonamassa’s Journeyman Records. Reuniting with legendary producer Kevin Shirley, known for his work with Iron Maiden, Journey, and Joe Bonamassa, Taylor delivers a bold blend of blues-rock infused with Americana, indie rock, and retro ‘80s pop influences.
A New Chapter of Creativity
Black & Gold represents a fresh chapter in Taylor’s illustrious career, exploring themes of human connection, resilience, and self-discovery. The album features a captivating mix of heartfelt ballads and hard-hitting rock tracks, redefining the boundaries of blues music. With Taylor’s soulful guitar work, emotive songwriting, and powerhouse vocals, the record promises a dynamic journey through life’s highs and lows.
The Stories Behind the Songs
One of the album’s standout singles, “Grayer Shade Of Blue,” offers a deeply personal glimpse into Taylor’s life. Reflecting on the song, she shares, “This story is a personal one to me. Since this is my 10th studio album, I decided to use some of my writing to put to bed something that has been bothering me. This song is about a close friendship that ended suddenly, and it was my attempt to find closure. I love how it turned out, and I’m happy to close that chapter while cherishing the memories.”
Other singles from the album, such as “Who’s Gonna Love Me Now,” a poignant exploration of grief and healing, and “I Gotta Stop Letting You Let Me Down,” a defiant anthem of self-empowerment, showcase Taylor’s ability to channel raw emotion into powerful music. The album also includes her celebrated cover of Sam Sparro’s “Black & Gold,” further highlighting the record’s wide-ranging influences.
Breaking New Ground
Discussing her approach to releasing new music, Taylor explains, “This strategy allows me more creative freedom compared to dropping a full album and going quiet for months or years. With music constantly coming out, I feel less judged. If I want to write a more pop-influenced song, I can, and then follow it up with a blues track weeks later.”
Taylor’s willingness to experiment and push boundaries has solidified her as one of today’s most innovative voices in blues-rock. Praised by legends like Stevie Wonder and Annie Lennox, and with Kevin Shirley’s expert production, Black & Gold is set to be a defining moment in her career.
Tracklist for Black & Gold
- Hold Of My Heart
- All The Things I Said
- Black & Gold
- Who’s Gonna Love Me Now?
- I Gotta Stop Letting You Let Me Down
- Summer Love
- Grayer Shade Of Blue
- Hell Of A Good Time
- Look What I’ve Become
- What Are You Gonna Do Now?
- Love Lives Here
A Legacy in the Making
Joanne Shaw Taylor’s partnership with Journeyman Records, a label dedicated to empowering artists, ensures her work reaches fans in its purest form. By collaborating with top-tier producers and embracing innovative release strategies, Taylor continues to redefine what it means to be a modern blues-rock artist.
Upcoming Performances
Fans can catch Taylor live on the Keeping The Blues Alive at Sea X Cruise from 21st to 26th March 2025. Following this, she’ll embark on her highly anticipated U.S. Spring Tour, beginning on 28th March in Portland, ME. Stops include iconic venues such as Sony Hall in New York City on 30th March and The Hamilton Live in Washington, DC, on 4th April. These performances will feature material from Black & Gold alongside fan favourites, promising an electrifying live experience.
Black & Gold arrives 6th June 2025, and promises to be an unforgettable addition to Joanne Shaw Taylor’s remarkable discography. Stay tuned for more updates and prepare to immerse yourself in the bold, innovative sound of one of blues-rock’s brightest stars.
