Cropper shares, “We always strive to make the best record we can, however in this case and the horrible predicament we have all been put through, I think this album is perfect. The world is ready to dance and have fun, and this album, when listened to, makes that happen.” Fire It Up officially releases on April 23. But you can preview it here: Rooted in sessions with the Rascals’ Felix Cavaliere and produced with long-time collaborator Jon Tiven, Fire It Up features vocal performances by Roger C. Reale, the songwriter behind tracks performed by B.B. King (“Yes Man”), Johnny Winter (“Last Night”) and Buddy Guy/Jonny Lang (“Midnight Train”). Cropper is both guitarist and a producer on the album—a role he is most comfortable in after years on the scene—but from the classic R&B of the title-track, to the funk of “Bush Hog” and the quiet restraint of “One Good Turn,” it’s clear why this album stands out in Cropper’s memory. “This is the first ‘Steve Cropper’ album since 1969,” he says. “I haven’t heard myself this way in years.” A founding member of the Blues Brothers and one of Stax Records’ main producers, songwriters and guitarists—as the guitarist in its house band, Booker T. and the M.G.’s—Cropper reintroduced classic soul to unsuspecting audiences. From “Midnight Hour” by Wilson Pickett to “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay” by Otis Redding or “Soul Man” and “Hold On I’m Coming” by Sam and Dave — you simply can’t discuss soul music without Steve Cropper. Pre-order Fire It Up here: https://smarturl.it/stevecropper Next, do people who are tone-deaf hear music differently?
