Morgan Freeman's Symphonic Blues with Chineke! Orchestra

Release Date: 16th October 2026
Label: Decca Classics
Catalogue No: 4872340

Blending the raw, soulful sounds of the Mississippi Delta Blues, with the rich breath of the symphony orchestra.

A contemporary blues album performed by Chineke! Orchestra, narrated by Morgan Freeman, and conducted by Martin Gellner (Composer, Conductor and Music Director, most recently serving as arranger for Hans Zimmer Live) who created all the new arrangements for this project.

Recorded between the world-class recording studios: Royal Studios in Memphis, Tennessee, and Abbey Road, this album weaves together powerful cinematic storytelling with live blues and orchestral performances, collaborating with Grammy® award winning producers, and blues performers.

Dark Was the Night, Cold Was the Ground – feat. Morgan Freeman (narrator) & Keith Johnson (lead vocals)
Crossroads – feat. James “Super Chikan” Johnson (lead vocals) 
Death Letter Blues – feat. Taj Mahal (lead vocals & guitar)
Dust My Broom – feat. Adrienne “Lady Adrena” Ervin (lead vocals) and Alvin Youngblood Hart (guitar)
The Thrill Is Gone – feat. Alvin Youngblood Hart (lead vocals & guitar)
Cadillac Assembly Line – feat. Keb’ Mo’ (lead vocals & guitar)
Somebody’s Knockin’ – feat. Anthony “Big A” Sherrod (lead vocals & guitar)
Traveling Riverside Blues – feat. Tiernii Jackson lead (vocals) and Alvin Youngblood Hart (guitar)
I’ll Take You There – feat. Shemekia Copeland (lead vocals) & The Staxx Music Academy (choir)
Tried and Tried – feat. Anthony “Big A” Sherrod  (lead vocals & guitar)
Someday – feat. Anthony “Big A” Sherrod (lead vocals & guitar)
I Lied To You – feat. Keith Johnson (lead vocals) and Alvin Youngblood Hart (guitar)