Blues powerhouse Miss Freddye has returned with not one but two poignant singles, “Let It Burn” and “Slippin’ Away,” marking a new chapter in her illustrious career. Known for her ability to channel raw emotion into her music, Miss Freddye reflects on the inspiration behind these tracks, her creative process, and the evolution of the blues genre. From collaborating with talented musicians like Jesse Landers and Hollis Greathouse to balancing tradition with modern flair, Miss Freddye’s artistry shines through. In this exclusive interview, she opens up about her mission to connect with audiences through storytelling, her roots in Pittsburgh’s vibrant music scene, and how she continues to use her voice for healing and community impact.
“Let It Burn” marks your first release in two years. What was the inspiration behind this powerful track, and how did you approach its recording process with your band? How did working with Jesse Landers and engineer Hollis Greathouse shape the final sound?
I love ballads, love stories. When Jesse Landers introduced me to his song, that first note I heard, I knew I could sing it from my heart! This song reminds of a relationship of love, yearning, and determination. My bandmates know when I bring them a song, they know it is going to be something people will get into and love! I asked Jesse his opinion on the flow of the song. I asked him for input on the tempo, the composition, the instrumentation, and the sound. He knew this song would become “Miss Freddye”. It would become one with me.
Hollis is not only an experienced engineer, but a fantastic musician with a great ear! We have worked together a few times and he knows my sound, my range, and what would work in the style I sing.
This makes it easy to work with people who have taken the time to get to know me, the singer!
“Slippin’ Away” is a deeply emotional song written by your late friend, Mike Lyzenga. How did it feel to bring his lyrics to life, and what personal meaning does the song hold for you? Was there a specific moment during the recording that stood out as particularly moving?
When Mike first introduced the song to me, the first note I knew I was going to do this song justice! Mike was a fantastic songwriter! His music was from the heart, which spoke volumes about him. When I first read the lyrics, they reminded me of my own heart and what I went thru at one time or another.
The best moment was when my Homecookin Band recorded a video 4 years ago. The way we did that song was haunting, moving. I knew this song was going to be a hit!
When we recorded in the studio, at that moment I knew this was going to be a great love song! My bandmates took their time and added their hearts into the song!
Both “Let It Burn” and “Slippin’ Away” showcase different sides of your artistry. How do these singles reflect your growth as a blues singer and storyteller? Did you approach each song with a different mindset, given their contrasting themes?
Both are great love songs! I have found the audiences can definitely relate to them. I have heard many times how they can tell when I’m “into” the song. As a storyteller through the music I do, it is important to put in my emotions, my essence. Both songs are unique, but they tell different stories. Let It Burn tells of an already existing love that wants to intensify that love.
‘Slippin Away’ tells of a love that was there, but that love has its memories and asks where does go, where has it gone.
When I sing these songs, my mood is different. One song is longing to keep the love burning, the other song tells of a love that was once there, but now it’s just slippin away.
The lyrics in “Slippin’ Away” speak to love, loss, and longing. How do you channel such raw emotion into your performances, and what do you hope listeners take away from the song? Have fans shared any personal stories with you after hearing the track?
I can relate to this song. I put my “essence” in the song. This means the feel, the love, and the outcome. I have people come up to me and say they now how I feel. I have heard stories of broken relationships and stories of new relationships. It is when during those moments I have accomplished what I have set out to do, give the audiences connection.
Your music often draws from real-life experiences and deep emotions. How do you balance preserving the authenticity of the blues tradition with bringing your own modern flair to the genre? How have your influences, like Koko Taylor and Etta James, impacted your sound on these latest singles?
My motto is to stay true to myself, but be versatile. My influences have done this. Just like they did m I have built my own “essence” while keeping in mind traditions with some added modern touches. I learned over the years to focus on what moves me and how my audiences will react.
You’ve been a prominent figure in the Pittsburgh music scene for over two decades. How do you see the blues evolving, and what role do you hope your latest singles play in keeping the genre alive? How do you stay connected to your roots while continuing to evolve as an artist?
I have to say the blues music is changing. I always welcome change! But, I keep in mind my roots, my influences. It can be easy to lose yourself and get caught up in the moments of popularity, of fame. I stay focused because I do not want my creativity interrupted by things that will not be on the same page as I am.
Beyond music, you’ve made an impact through charity work and community engagement. How do songs like “Let It Burn” and “Slippin’ Away” reflect your mission to use music as a force for healing and Connection? Are there any upcoming projects or charity events you’re excited to be a part of?
As the saying goes “music is a healer”! Singing about love and relationships gives a sense of closure. The closure means as a singer, I can express the things that mean the most to my audiences.
I am excited to be part of the following charity events for 2025! I will be joining “Pittsburgh’s Divas for ‘Hair Peace”, May 31, for raising money and awareness for women who are fighting cancer.
Every year I perform for “Rockin The Roosevelt” and Band Blast. These charity’s events raise money for the playground in Arnold, PA, for the kids to have a place to play and to be safe. I will be performing for “Back The Blue” in memory of police officers from the Alle-Kiski area who lost their lives in the line of duty. Also, I will be performing for Leechburg, PA Pink Day. This will be the last year for this charity event that raises money and awareness for The Breast Cancer Foundation.
I am currently working on my next single and album. I look forward to sharing the music with the world!
