Brand new Delmark single released from EJ MATHEWS “WALKING DOWN THIS ROAD” featuring Steve Bell on harmonica! OUT now and streaming on all platforms!
East Texas Bluesman EJ Mathews Signs with Legendary Delmark Records
June 16, 2026
The blues world has some exciting news to celebrate. East Texas bluesman EJ Mathews has officially joined the esteemed roster of Delmark Records, one of the most respected and longest-running independent blues and jazz labels in America.
The agreement was recently finalized as EJ and Delmark President Julia A. Miller signed the contract for the release of EJ’s first album with the iconic Chicago-based label. For an artist whose music is deeply rooted in the traditions of the blues while carrying a voice uniquely his own, this partnership marks a major milestone in an already impressive career.
Recording sessions took place on June 8 and 9 at Delmark Riverside Studio in Chicago. The project brings together an exceptional lineup of musicians, pairing EJ’s soulful vocals and acoustic guitar with a powerhouse group of Delmark veterans. Joining him in the studio were Steve Bell on harmonica, Larry Williams on acoustic bass, and Pooky Styx on drums, creating a musical chemistry that captures the raw spirit and authenticity of the blues.
The album was recorded by Delmark President Julia A. Miller and produced by acclaimed musician, broadcaster, and producer Elbio Barilari, whose vision and passion for blues music have helped shape numerous memorable Delmark releases.
For blues fans, this collaboration represents a perfect match. Delmark has been home to some of the genre’s most influential artists, preserving and promoting authentic blues music for decades. Now, EJ Mathews joins that rich tradition, bringing his East Texas roots and heartfelt storytelling to a worldwide audience.
While details about the album’s release date will be announced soon, anticipation is already building for what promises to be a powerful and deeply authentic recording.
Please join us in congratulating EJ Mathews on this exciting new chapter.
Welcome to the Delmark family, EJ!
EJ Mathews with Delmark T-Shirt with Delmark’s Julia Miller
Steve Bell on harmonica (Carey’s son, and John Primer’s long time harp man!!)
Larry Williams, bass (from the Mike Wheeler Band), EJ Mathews, guitar, and Pooky Styx, drums (currently, Buddy Guy‘s drummer!)
Bassist Larry Williams with EJ Mathews in Delmark’s Riverside Studio
EJ Mathews just performed at the prestigious JUS’ BLUES Music Awards in Biloxi, Mississippi!
EJ Mathews, the East Texas bluesman signed to Delmark Records, recently performed at the 2026 Jus’ Blues Music Awards in Biloxi, Mississippi, alongside acclaimed blues artist Zac Harmon. The event, hosted by the Jus’ Blues Music Foundation, is a long-running celebration honoring achievements in blues and soul music, with a focus on recognizing artists who keep the genre alive and thriving.
Awards & Recognition: While fellow Delmark artists Jamiah Rogers and Roosevelt “Hatter” Purifoy were honored with the Bobby Rush Blues Entertainer Award and the Muddy Award respectively, EJ Mathews was spotlighted as a rising star on Delmark’s roster. His performance in Biloxi was part of a broader celebration of new blues talent, and he was also featured in Delmark’s post-event coverage.
EJ’s latest release, “Walking Down This Road”, was released just before the awards. The single, featuring Steve Bell on harmonica, blends swamp-music, country-funk, and the raw rhythmic energy of the blues, continuing his tradition of storytelling through the “talking blues” style. The track is available on major streaming platforms.
Born and raised in the Piney Woods of East Texas, EJ’s music is deeply rooted in rural Southern traditions. Influenced by his Georgia-born grandfather’s slide guitar playing, his sound is often described as “Backwoods Blues with a Shot of Country” or “Swamp Boogie from the Piney Woods“. He draws inspiration from legends like Lightnin’ Hopkins and Howlin’ Wolf, and his big, rough voice commands attention in live settings.
Upcoming Performances: Following the awards, EJ continues to tour, with upcoming shows in Dallas, Texas, and at the Jessie Mae Hemphill Hill Country Blues Fest in Clarksdale, MS
EJ Mathews hails from the backroads of East Texas and Oklahoma, where red dirt, pine trees, and front-porch pickin’ shaped his sound from an early age. Raised in the rural community of Bivins near the Louisiana state line, EJ’s earliest musical influence was his Georgia-born grandfather, who played slide guitar on the porch and never leaned on cover tunes. As EJ shared in an interview, “I don’t want to sound like everybody else; I just want to be me. Granddaddy never played any cover tunes. There’s nothing wrong with it, it’s just not me.” That independent spirit still defines his music today.
With three acclaimed full-length albums and a growing collection of standout singles, EJ Mathews has built a catalog defined by authenticity, originality, and a deep connection to his roots. That distinctive sound has recently earned him a place on the roster of the legendary Chicago blues label, Delmark Records. EJ has completed recording his debut Delmark album at the label’s Riverside Studio, with the highly anticipated release coming soon.
Often described as “Backwoods Blues with a Shot of Country,” EJ’s music blends foot-stompin’ rhythms, swampy grooves, and raw acoustic melodies into a style that is unmistakably his own. Drawing from the traditions of the rural South while forging his own path, he delivers songs that are instantly memorable—full of grit, soul, and hooks that grab listeners from the very first beat.
In 2017, EJ was named Breakout Artist of the Year by Living Blues Magazine, a recognition that cemented his place as one of the genre’s rising voices. As Living Blues noted about EJ, his approach honors tradition while carving out new ground—rooted in heritage but driven by originality.
On stage, Mathews delivers lively, high-energy performances that resonate deeply with audiences. Whether in an intimate venue or a festival setting, he brings a distinct, swamp-bred sound that reflects his upbringing and ensures every crowd leaves engaged, energized, and wanting more.
