Pokey LaFarge returns with Rent Money

Always impossible to categorize and fiercely independent, Pokey LaFarge returns with a new album due out on September 11 via his own label Boxer Boy Records. First single unveiled: Rent Money, a track blending country blues, rock’n’roll energy and a bitter look at a time when working hard is no longer enough to pay the bills.

The “Pokey LaFarge” spirit

For years now, Pokey LaFarge has followed a completely unique path within the American music landscape. Blues, swing, ragtime, boogie, early jazz, country and vintage rock’n’roll all naturally collide in his music without ever sounding artificial.

With Rent Money, produced by Elliot Bergman (Wild Belle, LA LOM, Natalie Bergman), the Illinois-born artist seems to push even further this personal blend of American roots music and sharp social commentary.

The first single, also titled Rent Money, has just been released alongside an official video directed by Jacob Butler.

“The good Lord gives and Uncle Sam takes away”

Behind its infectious rhythm, Rent Money deals with everyday struggles and that feeling of constantly chasing something that keeps getting harder to reach.

« “Rent Money” is a slightly tougher song, explains Pokey LaFarge, but it’s not going to completely bring you down. It’s simply a classic country blues song. The good Lord gives and Uncle Sam takes away. »

That mindset seems to run throughout much of this new album, presented as one of the most personal records of his career. On Rent Money, Pokey LaFarge above all continues to embrace an artistic freedom that has become increasingly rare.

« People are always going to tell you what they think you should play, what you should sing about, how you should sound, look or behave. And I’ve always answered: no. Never. I’ve completely followed my own path, and I hope I’ve remained honest and authentic throughout the journey. »

He then adds a sentence that perfectly sums up his current vision:

« I’m simply trying to make music that AI can’t reproduce. Everything feels so standardized today. That’s exactly what I strongly resist, especially when it comes to music. I won’t do it. I’m not going to conform. »