Mick Hayes My Claim to Fame Review

Mick Hayes is a blues artist that was born and raised in upstate New York. From an early age he was captivated by the sounds of Wilson Pickett, Aretha Franklin, Solomon Burke, and Duane Allman. If you know that period of music, you will know what all those artists have in common. They are all recorded at FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, Alabama. The history and energy are still there, in fact, a lot of the vintage equipment is still there and in use. Hayes was able to book a session at the great studio and create his album, My Claim to Fame.

About the Album

My Claim to Fame has some of the veteran Muscle Shoals session men on the project, and their magic is throughout the ten songs. The session players are bassist Bob Wray (Ray Charles, the Marshall Tucker Band), drummer Justin Holder (James Le Blanc), trumpeter Vinnie Ciesielski (Gladys Knight, Lyle Lovett), saxophonist Brad Guin (Jason Isbell), keyboardist Clayton Ivey (Bobby “Blue “Bland, Etta James, B.B. King), and rhythm guitarist Will McFarlane (Bonnie Raitt, Levon Helm). Hayes provides the lead vocals and lead guitar and is joined by two background vocalists. Hayes songs are written with a deep understanding of song forms and catchy melodies. His vocal sound is smokey and a tad gruff, which perfectly fits the vintage sound of Muscle Shoals.

Our Favorite Tracks

“Sweet to Me” opens with a soulful guitar figure from Hayes that is soon joined by that beautiful Muscle Shoals sound of deep grooving rhythm section, popping horn, full organ, and well-sung background vocals. Hayes has a very pleasing singing sound and style that will keep you listening. A soulful guitar solo seals the deal as Hayes sings about his positive feelings for his wife, a feel-good song through and through.

“Political Funk” is a beautiful Muscle Shoals funk feel with lyrics that deal with the state of media today. With Hayes’ soulful vocals leading the way, the track features hip horns, background vocals, a stunning guitar solo from Hayes, and a feel from the rhythm section that is wonderful. This track is a clear standout on the album.

In Conclusion

My Claim to Fame is a straight-ahead vintage soul album that captures the FAME name and sound with Hayes sonically pleasing vocals and guitar playing. Hayes has the feel, authentic phrasing, and period songwriting to make this album a modern-day gem of soul music. Once again, the Muscle Shoals sound proves its relevance and timelessness.