ZZ Ward belts out the blues like a real Mother on her barnburning new EP — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
For more than a decade, this singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has been one of the most talented artists that most people have never heard. But with this no-holds-barred release, Ward grabs you by the collar, gets in your face and refuses to take no for an answer. Firing on all cylinders with the help of a crack band, she aggressively yet soulfully delivers one of the most pointed, potent and personally grounded outings in her impressive catalog.
Tapping into deep emotions and rich musical heritage in this electrifying outing, the powerhouse vocalist pens a love letter to the blues — both the genre and the experience. Released on the iconic Sun Records, this six-track collection serves as a powerful reminder of her talent for blending genres, while also showcasing a more mature, reflective side of the artist. “Motherhood has been one of the most challenging and beautiful experiences of my life,” Ward shares. “This EP is about navigating that journey and figuring out who I am through it all.”
Opening with the title track, Ward kicks off the EP with a gritty blues banger that’s all raw power and emotion. The track’s wailing guitar riffs and growling vocals set the tone for the rest of the record, highlighting the conflicts of parenthood: Exhaustion and empowerment, vulnerability and strength.
But Mother also has softer, more introspective moments. I Have No One, the latest single, strips away the bravado to reveal a haunting exploration of loneliness and identity. With its haunting horns and gospel-inspired backing vocals, the song is a standout, capturing the essence of blues storytelling.
Ward doesn’t shy away from revisiting her past hits, either. The Dirty Sun Version of Put The Gun Down strips the original track down to its bluesy roots, while Lil’ Darlin’ gets a similarly gritty treatment. Ward’s renditions of My Baby Left Me and Cadillac Man is a nod to the past and a testament to her respect for the genre’s history.
Mother is just the beginning of Ward’s journey back to her roots. With more blues-oriented music planned for 2025 and a headlining tour on the horizon, fans have a lot to look forward to from this dynamic, genre-defying artist.
Check out Mother below and catch up with ZZ Ward on her website, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and TikTok.
