Khalif Wailin' Walter will release his first album on Timezone Records on September 20, 2024. Phoenix Risin' is packed with rousing blues melodies that invite you to clap, stomp, and dance along. The songs take center stage here. Khalif's songwriting is firmly rooted in the tradition of Chicago electric blues, which is clearly audible on tracks like "Big Bootyed Woman" and the title track "Phoenix Risin'." At the same time, the influence of the Texas big band style is evident on tracks like "Connie-Lee," "Baby Please Lie To Me," and "Stone Cold Busted."
Khalif's guitar work is reminiscent of blues greats Otis Rush and Albert Collins, especially on tracks like "The Streets" and the raucous "Chicago Sound Check." When he takes on a supporting role, his chord playing is sexy and seductive. His soulful vocals alternate between gentle crooning, as on "I'm Your Love Doctor," and passionate intensity, as on "I'm Through Cryin'."
"Phoenix Risin' is, in many ways, the CD I've always wanted to make. It took a lot of time and effort to bring the right circumstances and people together to realize my vision," says Khalif. The album combines music that inspired him as a child with a look into the future and his own voice. Khalif wrote all the songs himself. recorded, produced, mixed, and mastered. He sings, plays guitar and bass, and handles all percussion. He is accompanied by seasoned blues veterans such as pianist Chris Rannenberg, tenor saxophonists Martin "Tinez" van Toor and Tommy Schneller, Paul Jobson on organ, and New Orleans session drummer Barry Wintergarden.
Khalif Wailin' Walter, a Chicago native, is one of many generations of blues musicians carrying on the city's deep traditions while breaking new ground. As the child of military personnel, Khalif moved frequently and was immersed in the big band sounds of Count Basie and Glenn Miller through the American Forces Network. He began playing guitar at 17, inspired by AC/DC and Van Halen. A chance meeting and half-hour guitar lesson with blues icon BB King set him on the path of Chicago electric blues. Khalif has played in the bands of Carl Weathersby, Lonnie Brooks, and Lurrie Bell and pursues his passion for Chicago blues as a musician, author, educator, and producer.
