For those unaware, McKinley James’s tale isn’t the result of boardroom designs. From Rochester roots to sweeping floors at Easy Eye Sound studio at age 18 and into the mentorship of Dan Auerbach, his dyed-in-the-wool work ethic of an era gone by, informs his raw tone and energy, perfectly pocketing his effortless old school cool.

Authentic grit has to be earned from the ground up. Emerging guitarist, singer, and songwriter McKinley James is a testament to that timeless truth. Tracing an authentic path from his foundational roots in Rochester, New York, to the heart of the Nashville music scene, James is making waves with a raw tone, dynamic energy, and an effortless, old-school cool that breathes fresh life into classic genres.

James’ musical identity is built on a dyed-in-the-wool work ethic reminiscent of an era gone by. Rather than chasing shortcuts, he immersed himself in the craft from the ground up—literally. His journey includes sweeping floors at the vaunted Easy Eye Sound Studio in Nashville, a rite of passage that placed him directly under the mentorship of its founder, GRAMMY Award-winning producer and The Black Keys frontman, Dan Auerbach.

Under Auerbach’s guidance, James honed a blistering, minimalist approach to American roots music. Channeling the spirits of pioneers like Otis Rush and Johnny “Guitar” Watson, his songwriting and guitar work deliver a powerful blend of Motown-infused soul, sharp blues, and high-energy rock.

Backed by a razor-sharp rhythm section—backed by frequently featuring his father, veteran rock ’n’ roll drummer Jason Smay—James locks into a groove that feels both impeccably pocketed and fiercely alive. With his signing to Easy Eye Sound, McKinley James joins a pedigree of foundational legends and leading lights of modern blues and soul.

Thus the emerging singer, songwriter, and guitar powerhouse McKinley James has released his infectious new single, “Hooked On You,” available today across all digital streaming platforms and as a physical 7-inch vinyl single via Easy Eye Sound.

File under raw soul/blues boogie/vintage rock ’n’ roll!

Side A:
1. Back On The Run

Side B:
2. Hooked On You

Expertly highlighting his brand of sharp songwriting and guitar work, combined with an infectious blend of Motown-infused soul and drilled down blues licks, Back On The Run is one of those songs that you just have to hear on a record player turntable (hence why we are reviewing this brilliant release via a 7-inch vinyl single).

The flip side is the harmonica-driven driving blues of Hook On You, a cut that pulsates from the very moment you drop the needle to the moment you reluctantly remove it ... and then proceed to drop it back at the start once again, of course!

McKinley James - Back On The Run [Official Music Video]

McKinley James - Hooked On You [Official Music Video]

Official Purchase Link

www.mckinleyjames.com