Otis Clay is a Grammy-winning gospel singer and minister. He has been performing for more than 50 years, and he just released his newest album “When The Gates Swing Open.” The album was recorded at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium–and it features guest appearances by Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, and many others. This article provides an overview of Otis’ new release as well as some information to help you understand who he is.
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Right now, Otis Clay has a new album called “When the Gates Swing Open.” He recorded this at Nashville’s historic Ryman Auditorium–and it features guest appearances by Vince Gill, Alison Krauss, Emmylou Harris, and many others. It was released in April 2018. The album is available for purchase from Amazon as well as other retailers. You can also listen to snippets of all songs of the album via Spotify or Apple Music. Finally, if you’re curious about who he is (or what his music sounds like), we have some more details below!
He was born in Arkansas and moved with his family at age 12. He began playing music for pleasure during high school, about 1960. At this time he also became a member of Chicago’s Chess Records recording company as an artist-producer. In 1990, he was inducted into The Blues Hall Of Fame and received another honor from the Rockabilly Hall Of Fame twelve years later–in 2002! It seems that Otis Clay has been around a while–but is still making great new albums like “When the Gates Swing Open” today! Hopefully, you found some helpful content in our blog post; we’ll see you next time!–The HB Staff
When the Gates Swing Open” is a 2014 album by Otis Clay. The album was released on September 16, 2017, on Alligator Records and features twelve songs with a soulful mix of gospel blues music. It includes covers such as Willie Nelson’s “Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground,” Johnnie Taylor’s “Who Will Sing for Me?” and even Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror.”
The album was produced by Otis Clay and features the backing of his touring band, which includes notable musicians such as keyboardist Johnnie Johnson.
When the Gates Swing Open” has been praised for its soulful qualities that are reminiscent of those from classic blues singers like Howlin’ Wolf or Muddy Waters.
The album opens with the title track, a gospel song that is meant to remind listeners of what salvation from sin truly means.
Angel Flying Too Close to the Ground” was written by Willie Nelson in 1991 as an ode to his father’s death and features Clay singing at a slower pace than he usually does, which gives off an eerie vibe. This contrasts well with how quickly paced it becomes near the end when Clay sings about being freed from all their chains.
Johnnie Taylor’s classic “Who Will Sing for Me?” follows next on this album; it asks who will sing praises for someone living such a sinful life but knowing they are still loved nonetheless? It also features some playful piano work by Johnson.
I’ll Be Satisfied” features a strong horn section that really shines throughout the song and makes it one of the best tracks on this album. The horns are what give off that gospel sound with Clay’s voice, which is more uplifting than any other track on here.
“The Old Rugged Cross” closes out the album; it tells listeners about how even though they may be feeling like they can’t go on in their Christian walk because everything seems too heavy, Jesus will always bear his cross for them to make them feel free from sin until he comes back again.”
This album is even more of a mixed bag than its predecessor. On the one hand, there are some great gospel songs with catchy hooks and uplifting messages that will leave you feeling refreshed; on the other hand, if you just want to listen to Otis Clay sing about his life story without any touches or additions from anyone else, then this album might be too much for you. I’m not sure which side of it wins out in terms- but at least he’s able to take different ideas and make them work together so they don’t sound jarringly mismatched like Tye Tribbett did with “Tribal.”
