Inside The Album: Sonny Gullage – Go Be Free (feat. Kevin “Sonny” Gullage)

This week, I’m joined by modern blues artist Sonny Gullage to dig into the stories behind several songs from his debut album, Go Be Free, released via Blind Pig Records. We break down the inspiration and meaning behind key tracks including “Just Kiss Me Baby,” “Go Be Free,” “Things I Can’t Control,” “Worried About the Young” (feat. Christone “Kingfish” Ingram), “Tattooed Wings,” and “Hot House.”

Beyond the songs, we talk about Sonny’s experience competing on Season 20 of American Idol, as well as his deep musical lineage, which traces back to blues and folk legend — and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee — Huddie “Lead Belly” Ledbetter.

Sonny also shares stories about his family’s roots in American music, including his great-aunt Sister Alberta Gullage, who released gospel recordings on the Wajo label in the 1960s, and his father Tony Gullage, a bassist who played with Dr. John, Henry Butler, and numerous artists throughout the New Orleans music scene.

We also dive into the making of Go Be Free, including Sonny’s collaboration with Tom Hambridge on the album’s writing and production, what it was like recording with Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, and the lessons he took away from the entire experience as both a musician and a songwriter.

A rich conversation about heritage, growth, and carrying the blues forward.

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