Celebrating Mary Lane: ‘Leave Me Alone’ Graces Living Blues Magazine

We are thrilled to share that Mary Lane’s soul-stirring album, “Leave Me Alone,” has garnered a glowing review in the prestigious Living Blues Magazine. David Whiteis, a respected critic, offers a deep dive into the nuances of Mary’s music, painting a vivid portrait of her journey and the blues tradition she so adeptly represents.

Whiteis retraces Mary’s musical lineage to the vibrant Chicago blues scene of the 1950s. Her time performing alongside icons like Robert Nighthawk, Howlin’ Wolf, and Joe Hill Louis is noted with reverence, showcasing the historic weight behind her work. After her northward move and settlement in Waukegan, her personal and professional life intertwined with guitarist Morris Pejoe, which further shaped her path in the blues landscape.

The review touches upon the significant singles “You Don’t Want My Loving No More” and “I Always Want You Near,” shedding light on their contribution to the fabric of Chicago blues. Whiteis also gives a nod to Mary’s long-awaited debut under her name, “Appointment with the Blues,” highlighting the solid Chicago backing and no-nonsense production that have become synonymous with her sound.

The article celebrates the newly released versions of Lane’s Friendly Five sides, applauding the collaboration with musicians such as Johnny B. Moore, whose guitar work breathes life into the strings with historical reverence and modern flair.

Mary Lane, now at 88 years old, continues to weave the rich tapestry of blues with fresh recordings and live performances. Her story is a testament to resilience and passion, standing as a beacon for artists in the genre.

Whiteis’s review is not just a critique but a tribute to Mary Lane’s indomitable spirit and the timeless allure of blues music. It’s a reminder of why Wolf Records chose to reissue “Leave Me Alone” at this particular moment, underlining its musical and historical significance.

We are immensely proud to see Mary Lane’s enduring legacy recognized by Living Blues Magazine and are grateful to David Whiteis for his insightful review that does justice to the heart and soul poured into “Leave Me Alone.”