“Blues will never die, because I’m here to keep it alive. I’m honored to be amongst so many true blues artist and musicians that believe in continuing to ride in the traditional blues lane. This to me is a very important foundation in me personally remembering the struggle and continuing to stay humble. That’s that “feeling “ that you get from the real blues. Therefore, when it’s authentic, people will naturally enjoy it.”

Crystal Thomas: Blues Woman

Crystal Thomas, the two-time Living Blues Award-winning Louisiana-born blues and Southern Soul singer, trombonist and songwriter, announces the release of her new album, Blues Woman (2026) – a powerful musical statement celebrating the heritage of the blues while embracing its contemporary evolution. With a career built on authenticity, musical excellence and commanding stage presence, Crystal Thomas has established herself as one of the most exciting voices on today's international soul-blues circuit. Following performances in more than 17 countries across Europe, Asia, North America and South America, she is now looking forward to bringing her music back to European audiences.                                            (Photo: Crystal Thomas)

More than just a new album, Blues Woman represents Crystal Thomas's artistic identity and her personal connection to the blues. Rooted in the traditions of Louisiana blues, soul and rhythm & blues, the album combines powerful vocals, expressive musicianship and a contemporary Southern Soul groove.

Interview by Michael Limnios               Archive: Crystal Thomas, 2021 Interview

Special Thanks: Davide Grandi & Lorenz Zadro (A-Z Press)

On your new album “Blues Woman”, you stay remarkably true to the roots of Southern Soul and Blues without chasing modern pop trends. How did you manage to maintain this level of authenticity, and what does this specific project represent in your musical journey?

Staying true to soul and blues is just natural. The last few years, I’ve tried my best not to listen to music. I wanted to be directed by my feelings for the new project. This album represents my ability to deliver creatively, and I’m proud to have nine originals.

Your voice carries a profound gospel energy. How did your upbringing in the church shape the way you approached these specific songs in the studio?

Church taught me theory before I learned in school. Listening, breathing, phrasing, and expression were fundamentals I obtained, singing in the choir.

How did you choose the tracks for this project? Is there a particular song that you feel truly "unlocked" you emotionally during the recording sessions?

My good friend Luca Giordano partnered with me on this album. We exchanged ideas throughout but he produced the music, all but “Party” and “I’ll Play The Blues For You.”

“I must say, I have enjoyed the love I’ve received from every show I’ve had abroad. I’ve had great interactions and crowd response. I’ve even experienced a proposal during one of my songs. I’m truly blessed to be embraced by so many people in so many places. If I had to pick one, it would be Porretta, Italy . It was there that I’ve received my biggest, standing ovation. That was an amazing experience.” (Crystal Thomas / Photo by Fernando Ibarra)

We often hear people say that "the blues is dead" or trapped in the past. What is your response to that, and how do you make a traditional musical language feel so fresh and urgent today?

Blues will never die, because I’m here to keep it alive. I’m honored to be amongst so many true blues artist and musicians that believe in continuing to ride in the traditional blues lane. This to me is a very important foundation in me personally remembering the struggle and continuing to stay humble. That’s that “feeling “ that you get from the real blues. Therefore, when it’s authentic, people will naturally enjoy it.

The blues has a rich history of powerful women who fought for their place. How does it feel to carry this heavy legacy forward, and what message do you want to pass on to the younger generation of female artists?

I love this question because it’s automatically a different journey for women. I’m ready to continue the fight because I too like them have worked for it and deserve it. I’m committed to continuing this climb as honorable and respectful as possible, not only to their journey and accomplishments. But also their obstacles and disappointments. I believe there are still many great songs in our stories. That’s also a part of my message to upcoming artists, never give up, your story, your music may be someone’s testimony.

Critics often note that you don’t just sing a song; you "inhabit" every single phrase. Is singing the blues a form of catharsis for you, or is it an everyday necessity?

Everyday I have a song in my heart. I just have to get it out and share with everyone who will listen. I sing a song differently every time because I feel it differently every time.

Coming from Louisiana, what is it like to perform for audiences across the world who might not even speak your language, yet connect so deeply with your music?

It is the greatest feeling in the world to sing in places that I learned of in history class. Never thinking that my dreams would become a reality and I get to share my gift with people who may not understand the words, but they can feel the song.

“I’m ready to continue the fight because I too like them have worked for it and deserve it. I’m committed to continuing this climb as honorable and respectful as possible, not only to their journey and accomplishments. But also their obstacles and disappointments. I believe there are still many great songs in our stories. That’s also a part of my message to upcoming artists, never give up, your story, your music may be someone’s testimony.” (Photo: Crystal Thomas)

Is there a specific concert or an audience outside the US (Europe, South America) that has stayed with you because of their unique energy or reaction?

I must say, I have enjoyed the love I’ve received from every show I’ve had abroad. I’ve had great interactions and crowd response. I’ve even experienced a proposal during one of my songs. I’m truly blessed to be embraced by so many people in so many places. If I had to pick one, it would be Porretta, Italy . It was there that I’ve received my biggest, standing ovation. That was an amazing experience.