Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne with Ooh Yeah!

Album: Ooh Yeah! November 2024

Label: 5026176 Ontario Inc

Can’t Miss Tracks: Ooh Yeah!, Baby, I’m Your Man, Honey, Honey, Honey, That Crazy Monkey

A Celebratory Album Full of Soul and Boogie-Woogie

Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne is a name that resonates deeply in the blues world. With a career spanning decades and an unrelenting energy that defies his 80 years, Wayne’s latest album, Ooh Yeah!, proves that he’s still at the top of his game. Released on November 15, this self-produced record is a celebration of Wayne’s musical journey, filled with infectious rhythms, clever melodies, and his undeniable piano virtuosity. Let’s dive into what makes this album so special.

A Diverse Musical Journey

Ooh Yeah! marks Wayne’s fifth album in just eight years, showcasing his ever-expanding musical range. Recorded in Quebec, Canada, with Glenn Castilloux at the helm, the album blends elements of soulful ballads, rollicking boogie-woogie, and funky grooves. Whether he’s capturing the spirit of 50s New Orleans or pushing musical boundaries, Wayne’s versatility shines through in every track.

High-Energy Opener: “Ooh Yeah!”

The album kicks off with the title track, “Ooh Yeah!” – a lively, dance-inducing number that perfectly captures the essence of Wayne’s music. With its upbeat tempo, catchy piano runs, and infectious groove, it’s an ideal introduction to the vibrant sound that permeates the rest of the album. The track sets the stage for the feel-good, energetic vibes that follow.

Soulful Moments and Funky Surprises

Wayne’s songwriting ability is on full display throughout Ooh Yeah!, with tracks that offer a range of musical textures. “My Point of View” brings out his soulful side, while “Try It Out” delivers a genre-bending highlight. The latter blends 70s-style bass with banjo, horns, and boogie-woogie piano in a surprisingly seamless way, showcasing Wayne’s willingness to experiment and push the envelope.

Rockin’ and Rollin’: “Honey, Honey, Honey”

One of the standout tracks on the album is “Honey, Honey, Honey,” a rockin’ piano-led tune that channels the fiery spirit of Jerry Lee Lewis. It’s a no-holds-barred rocker that proves Wayne can bring passion and excitement to every note. If you’re looking for a track that will get your heart racing, this one delivers.

Blues and Soulful Vocals: “Wishing Well”

In addition to his piano prowess, Wayne’s vocals continue to impress. On “Wishing Well,” a sultry R&B track, his voice oozes soul and vulnerability. This slow, bluesy number showcases Wayne’s range and ability to convey deep emotion, reminding listeners of the power of his voice even after all these years.

A Timeless Energy

At 80, Wayne’s energy is nothing short of remarkable. His vocals remain vibrant and youthful, a testament to his enduring relevance in the blues world. The album’s diversity reflects his long career of musical mastery, from performing with legends like Santana and the Doobie Brothers to winning accolades such as the Juno Award for Best Blues Album.

A Stellar Lineup of Musicians

Ooh Yeah! wouldn’t be complete without the incredible musicians who accompany Wayne on this journey. The album features guitarist Jimmy Bowskill and a fantastic horn section from Quebec, adding rich layers of sound to Wayne’s already electrifying performances. Their contributions help elevate the album to new heights.

Why You Need to “Try It Out”

With Ooh Yeah!, Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne has once again proven that age is no barrier to creativity. This album is fresh, fun, and deeply soulful, offering a blend of classic blues, rock, and funky soul that will appeal to both long-time fans and newcomers alike. Whether you’re tapping your foot to the boogie-woogie rhythms or swaying to the soulful ballads, Ooh Yeah! is an album that will stick with you long after the final note.

If you haven’t yet experienced the magic of Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne, now is the perfect time to dive in. With Ooh Yeah!, Wayne has delivered an album that showcases his brilliance, creativity, and undying passion for music. So go ahead—take his advice and “Try It Out!” You won’t regret it.