Mick Kolassa: The Free Range Bluesman
Mick Kolassa is a Michigan-born singer-songwriter and guitarist who carved a unique niche in the modern blues scene. Hailing from the musical hotbed of Memphis, Tennessee, his career is defined by a prolific and authentic output of original and interpreted blues, earning him a dedicated following and critical respect within the genre.
Early career
Born in Michigan, Mick Kolassa's musical journey took a decisive turn when he relocated to Memphis. His deep immersion in the city's rich musical culture, combined with a long-standing passion for the blues, fueled his transition from avid fan and music industry supporter to a performing and recording artist in his own right. He founded his own label, Swing Suit Records, to maintain creative control, releasing his debut album "The Ghost of Charlie Grant" in 2014, which immediately established his raw, soulful approach.
Breakthrough
Kolassa's breakthrough came with his 2017 album "Double Standards," a collection of blues reinterpretations of classic rock and pop songs. The album's clever concept and Kolassa's heartfelt performances garnered significant attention across the blues community and radio, expanding his audience beyond traditional circles. This release solidified his reputation as a thoughtful and innovative artist within the genre, leading to increased airplay and festival bookings.
Key tracks
The Ghost of Charlie Grant — This title track from his debut album introduced his gritty vocal style and traditional blues storytelling.
Freight Train — An original composition showcasing his knack for crafting memorable, locomotive-driven blues rhythms.
You're Gonna Make Me Cry — A powerful slow-burn blues ballad that highlights the emotional depth and soul in his voice.
Dead Drunk and Fat — This later-career track exemplifies his witty, self-deprecating lyrical style and robust acoustic blues sound.
Kolassa maintained a relentless pace, releasing albums like "Michissippi Mick" in 2018 and "If You Can't Be Good, Be Good At It" in 2020. His work often featured collaborations with notable Memphis musicians, including guitarist Jeff Jensen. Tragically, Mick Kolassa passed away in 2023, but he left behind a substantial and beloved catalog of music that continues to resonate with blues purists and newcomers alike.
For fans of Mick Kolassa's authentic and roots-driven style, the music of John Hammond offers a similar dedication to traditional blues forms. The gritty songwriting of Chris Smither shares Kolassa's folk-blues narrative approach. Listeners may also appreciate the work of Eric Bibb for his contemporary acoustic blues storytelling. The raw energy of Cedric Burnside connects with Kolassa's unfiltered Mississippi hill country influences.
Mick Kolassa's music remains a staple on dedicated blues radio stations and online rock radio streams that champion American roots music. His songs are frequently featured on independent music radio stations and specialty blues programs, keeping his legacy alive for listeners around the world.
The music of Mick Kolassa, the Free Range Bluesman, can be heard on radio stations featured on our website. Listeners can discover his authentic blues sound by tuning into the classic rock and specialty blues stations available on onairium.com.
