Canadian blues-rock icon Steve Hill has dropped his much-anticipated album, Hanging on a String, today via No Label Records. Produced at the legendary Studio 606 in Los Angeles, this release includes the powerful title track, “Hanging on a String,” a song that Hill describes as capturing the “resilience in the face of adversity” that has marked his life and career. Available across streaming platforms and on CD and vinyl, this album represents Hill’s most personal work to date, merging decades of musical experience with raw, heartfelt storytelling.
A Life of Challenges and Triumphs
Hill’s journey to this album has been marked by a series of intense and often life-threatening experiences, from car crashes to a house fire that almost claimed his life. “I’ve been a touring musician for thirty years,” Hill reflects. “I’ve faced my share of accidents, a plane crash, a house fire, broken ribs, and even a broken heart. It’s all been worth it because, for those two hours on stage, I get to make the crowd forget their worries. That’s my job, and I love it to death.”
Hanging on a String also brings to life a story of persistence; Hill fought through broken ribs and a second car crash to complete the recording at Studio 606. Engineered by Grammy-winning producer Darrell Thorp (known for his work with Foo Fighters, Radiohead, and Paul McCartney), this record offers fans a “concept album by accident,” where each track reflects Hill’s unyielding love for music as he grapples with the highs and lows of life as a musician.
A Concept Album Born from Real Life
The album, which kicks off with the line “Woke up in a house on fire,” was born out of Hill’s real-life escape from a house fire while on tour. Encouraged by his friend, Brian Laudenslager, Hill decided to head to LA’s Studio 606 with a fresh batch of songs. But just as he arrived, Hill survived a car accident that delayed recording as he healed and refined his tracks. Through all the challenges, he emerged with an album he is fiercely proud of, capturing “perseverance, resilience, and an unbreakable love for guitar music.”
“I’ve never been prouder of anything I’ve done,” Hill shares. “This is the music I’ve been wanting to make my whole life. Raw, in your face, and straight to the point.” Hill’s relentless passion is evident in every riff and lyric on Hanging on a String, which he considers the finest work of his career.
With decades of accolades, including Juno and Maple Blues Awards, Hill’s Hanging on a String is a testament to a life lived through music, perseverance, and a constant pursuit of authenticity in his art. As both a one-man band and masterful songwriter, Hill has created an album that is as close to the heart as you can get.
Stream “Hanging on a String” and watch the music video on YouTube now. For more on Steve Hill’s latest work, visit his website.
