Photo by Mickey Deneher 

Legendary electric blues guitarist, singer, songwriter and producer Joe Louis Walker has been celebrating and propelling the elusive core of the blues for over half a century. He began his legacy in 1986 and has since remained prolific, steadily releasing dozens of albums over the years that showcase his knowledge of blues history–each of which cemented the Blues Hall of Fame inductee as a torchbearer and leading player on the scene.

Walker’s newest addition to his extensive discography, Weight of the World, is set to release on Feb. 17 via 40 Below Records and is sure to further his distinct sound and legend, which led him to cross paths with the likes of Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, Branford Marsalis, James Cotton, Tower of Power, Ike Turner, Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown and Buddy Guy.

Today, we premiere “Don’t Walk Out That Door,” a song drenched in tender desperation, gilded horns and retro soul. The lyrics of the song carry the blues ethos of zero hesitation in the name of love and the beautiful harmonies shared by Walker stupefy the listener as soon as they enter the room.

“This song was a kind of a plea to someone close to me,” Walker shared with Relix. “Trying to repair a love.”

“Don’t Walk Out That Door,” was recorded live off the floor with a full band in a private studio just outside Woodstock, N.Y. by producer Eric Corne. After moving to L.A. horns arranged by Mark Pender were added. From there Walker rounded the track out with a stunning hook while Corne added tremolo guitar throughout the choruses to play off the Pender’s additions. The track also features Scott Milici on Hammond organ and background vocals, Geoff Murfitt on bass, John Medeiros Jr. on percussion and background vocals and Gia Ciambotti on background vocals.

Stream “Don’t Walk Out That Door” here, and listen below.