Eric Gales - Crown

Eric Gales is a true blues enthusiast. Over more than 30 years and 18 albums, his passion for the music and his boundless desire to keep it alive has never waned, even when his own light was dimmed by struggles with drug addiction. Throughout it all, he continued to breathe new life into the art form with personal revelations in his lyrics and daring stylistic turns in his guitar playing and songwriting.

Now five years sober, creatively rejuvenated, and wiser than ever, Eric is ready to face the defining chapter of his career. On Crown, Eric opens up like never before, sharing his battles with substance abuse, his hope for a new era of sobriety and unbridled creativity, and his personal reflections on racism. The songs are delivered with clarity, carrying Eric’s personal experiences and his hope for positive change.

This 16-track collection showcases his finest singing, songwriting, and signature guitar work that burns throughout. Produced by Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, Crown presents Eric at his most boldly vulnerable—unyieldingly political and fearlessly confident. The journey of the album mirrors Eric’s life, swinging through moments of triumph and vulnerability. Along the way, he tells his story and shares his emotions through majestic blues. Crown was nominated in 2023 for a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Blues Album.