"Wild's Rising" - Lil' Red & The Rooster Release a Joyous Gospel Blues Single

Lil’ Red & The Rooster’s latest single, "Wild’s Rising" is a nod to the blues greats.

This radiant sequel to B.B. King's "I'm Going Home" is more than a tribute though. It's a continuation of a story rooted in love, music and the timeless power of gospel infused blues.

From the very first notes, "Wild’s Rising" announces itself with the warmth of a Sunday morning service and the swagger of a Saturday night jam. The Hammond B3 organ, played with electrifying soul by the legendary Bobby Floyd, is the heartbeat of the track. And it's Floyd’s mastery that sets the tone - part reverent, part celebratory - making it impossible not to sway along.

Jennifer “Lil’ Red” Milligan opens "Wild's Rising" with a spoken word invocation that feels straight out of the Staples Family songbook, summoning the spirit of community and calling listeners to gather ’round.

The vocals are poised and passionate, understated yet deeply moving, embodying the truth that gospel blues doesn’t need to shout to be heard. It just needs to connect. And connect she does, channeling the spirit of Sister Rosetta Tharpe while keeping the tone entirely her own.

Pascal Fouquet’s guitar work is the perfect transatlantic bridge. It's bluesy bends and gospel swells steeped in American soul but played with Parisian finesse. Every phrase feels intentional, conversational, like a dialogue with the voices and organ around him. The rhythm section, with Pascal Mucci on drums and Jean-Marc Despeignes on bass, keeps the groove steady but supple, leaving space for the song’s choir-like expansiveness to breathe.

Speaking of choirs, "Wild’s Rising" is uplifted by a wall of gospel harmonies arranged by Floyd and brought to life by Quan Howell, Kara Brooks and Floyd’s daughter, Bobbi Townes.

Ten layers of harmonies which are pristine yet joyfully “messed up” for authenticity turn the song into a congregation in full swing. Bobbi Townes also lends tambourine and handclaps alongside her father and Lil’ Red herself.

For Lil’ Red & The Rooster, B.B. King’s "I’m Going Home" isn’t just a favorite song. It’s a foundation stone in their shared musical life together. The track is not an imitation of the original, but it imagines the next chapter and leans further into gospel's embrace and expands the emotional reach.

With their new album 7 arriving on August 22, "Wild’s Rising" serves as both a high point and a signpost.

It’s a reminder that Lil’ Red & The Rooster are not just interpreting the blues tradition but are also helping it live and breathe, making it speak powerfully to the present.

And in a music world often chasing novelty, they are proof that authenticity, heart and joyful musicianship will always rise to the top.

Step inside and you will find yourself in the middle of a gospel blues celebration that transcends borders, generations and time itself.

About Lil' Red & The Rooster

Formed in 2010, Lil’ Red & The Rooster are an international blues-soul duo made up of American vocalist Jennifer “Lil’ Red” Milligan and French guitarist Pascal Fouquet.

With their catchy songwriting, irresistible chemistry and spirited live performances, the duo have performed at major festivals and iconic venues worldwide, from Buddy Guy’s Legends in Chicago to jazz clubs in Paris.

Their sound draws deeply from American blues, gospel, jazz and soul while carrying the elegance of European artistry.

With a global following and a reputation for uplifting performances, Lil’ Red & The Rooster are keeping the blues vibrant, relevant and joyfully alive!

Find out all about Lil' Red & The Rooster on their Website