Delbert McClinton’s latest record Outdated Emotion debuted at #1 this week on the Billboard Blues Albums chart. Released this month on Hot Shot Records/Thirty Tigers, the “hip and down-to-earth” (No Depression) 16-song collection marks a return to McClinton’s roots as he reinvents the music of his childhood heroes. The tracklist includes a Ray Charles tribute, Hank Williams' country classics (complete with steel guitar and fiddle), Little Richard’s 1956 rock and roll ballad “Long Tall Sally,” and new originals that prove, sixty+ years into his career, Delbert’s writing chops are stronger than ever.
The album offers listeners a backstage pass to some of the most significant musical moments in American history. One particular highlight is McClinton’s energetic, harmonica-driven take on “Ain’t That Lovin’ You.” When he first heard the ‘56 original by bluesman Jimmy Reed, he realized he wanted to play music for a living. Now the “Texas musical treasure” (Houston Press) is teaching today’s youth a thing or two with his new music video for the classic track. Featuring an animated McClinton backed by a high-spirited band of kids, the video is a reminder why the legendary 81-year-old has rightfully earned his title as “the Godfather of Americana Music” (Rolling Stone).
