Dave Mason, songwriter, singer, guitarist, a founding member of Traffic and a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee has announced his 21st solo album called A Shade of Blues, available on March 21. With a career spanning over six decades, Mason delves deep into his blues roots on this electrifying collection. Over a decade in the making, this blues-infused record showcases Mason's artistry and collaborative spirit. The album features an impressive lineup of guest artists, including Joe Bonamassa, Michael McDonald, Mike Finnigan, Warren Hill, and more. A Shade of Blues also sets the stage for Mason's highly anticipated 2025 tour, celebrating over five decades of electrifying performances and sold-out shows worldwide.
Blues has been a cornerstone of Mason’s music since his earliest days with Traffic, where he performed alongside Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood. From penning timeless classics like "Feelin’ Alright" and "Only You Know and I Know" to collaborating with legends such as Jimi Hendrix ("All Along the Watchtower," "Crosstown Traffic") and The Rolling Stones ("Street Fighting Man"), Mason’s contributions to music are unparalleled.
Now, with A Shade of Blues, Mason leans further into the genre that influenced him from the start, offering 11 tracks that showcase a wide range of blues and R&B styles. The album will be released on his own Barham Productions label.
“My guitar playing has always drawn from the blues,” Mason explains. “This album leans a little more heavily into that style, but not entirely — that’s why I call it A Shade of Blues.”
Recorded with a mix of old friends and new collaborators, the album features standout moments like the traditional eight-bar blues of "Use It, Or Lose It" (set for single release on February 21st) —featuring guitar virtuoso Joe Bonamassa — and a raw, impromptu jam on Elmore James and Robert Johnson’s "Dust My Blues."
“I wanted to find new ways to approach these songs,” Mason says, pointing to his fresh, minor-key take on “Dear Mr. Fantasy.” “I’ve always enjoyed reinterpreting the music that’s shaped my career.”
Check out “Dear Mr. Fantasy” with Joe Bonamassa below.
The album also includes "It’s Just You And Me," with Michael McDonald on harmony vocals, piano, and organ, and a fiery rendition of "Born Under A Bad Sign," a tribute to Albert King, one of Jimi Hendrix’s favorite guitarists.Mason reflects on the influence of American blues on his music: “In England, we didn’t have segregated radio. We grew up listening to everything — jazz, soul, R&B, country. The blues is simple music, but it’s the feel that’s kept it alive for so long.”
A Shade of Blues stands as a testament to both the enduring power of the blues and Mason’s unwavering artistry. At 78, he continues to perform with his band, Dave Mason’s Traffic Jam, sharing his music with the next generation.
“I can’t just sit around doing nothing,” the 78-year-old laughed. “I still love playing guitar, I love being out on tour. I just want to keep this music alive for new generations.”
With A Shade of Blues, Dave Mason once again proves that by continuing to use it, you’ll never lose it.
A Shade of Blues will be available on March 21 on all streaming platforms, CD and vinyl.
After taking some time off in late 2024 to address some serious health issues, Mason is rested and recuperated and is now ready to resume his touring duties! Current itinerary is below with more dates to be announced.
“Let It Flow” Tour Dates:
03/20 Miller Theater - Augusta, GA
03/22 Mars Music Hall - Huntsville, AL
03/23 Center Stage - Atlanta, GA
03/25 Charleston Music Hall - Charleston, SC
03/27 The Tracy Performing Arts Center - Sumterville, FL
03/28 Savannah Center - The Villages, FL
03/29 Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts - Melbourne, FL
03/31 Florida Theatre - Jacksonville, FL
04/02 Ormond Beach Performing Arts - Ormond Beach, FL
04/04 Chasco Fiesta - Sims Park - New Port Richey, FL
04/05 Parker Playhouse - Fort Lauderdale, FL
For more info, visit davemasonmusic.com.
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