Terry Blade has consistently proven himself to be an artist of rare depth and conviction, and his latest single, “Tell ‘Em,” released at the dawn of 2025 is no exception. This blues-infused lament is a moving reflection on resilience, family, and the never ending fight for justice.
“Tell ’Em” pays homage to the blues greats while carving out a space for Blade’s distinctive sound. With echoes of Muddy Waters’ rawness and Nina Simone’s haunting poignancy, Blade infuses the tradition with his own unique perspective, shaped by his experiences as a Black queer artist navigating the complexities of identity and society.
“Tell ‘Em” is built around a series of stark pronouncements, delivered with a raw passion. The lyrics, simple yet profound, speak of family bonds, the ever-present threat of systemic oppression, and the unwavering determination to fight for freedom.
The song’s minimalist arrangement—a solitary guitar and Blade’s arresting vocals—creates an intimate space for storytelling. Blade’s voice, rich with grit and vulnerability, is the undeniable focal point, delivering lines like, “Tell my sister to stay strong” / “Tell my people that I will die for them, just so they can be free of the system,” with heartbreaking conviction.The focus is squarely on Blade’s voice and his message, allowing the listener to fully absorb the weight of his words.
As a follow-up to his award-winning 2024, “Tell ‘Em” is not an easy listen, but it’s an essential one. It’s a blues requiem for our times, a reminder of the power of music to heal, to inspire, and to give voice to the voiceless. It’s a song that’s unapologetically real.
Get to know: Bandcamp| Facebook | Soundcloud | YouTube | Instagram | Twitter
