Out now via Qualified Records
Seth James
Photo Credit: Erin Valkner|Download Here
(Nashville, Tennessee — April 1, 2026) — Texas-bred guitarist, singer-songwriter Seth James has released his new album, Motormouth, via Qualified Records today (April 1). Produced by multi-Grammy winner Kevin McKendree, the project delivers groove-driven, soul-infused songs that further solidify James as one of the most respected voices on today’s blues and roots circuit. Listen to Motormouth here.
A longtime fixture of the Lone Star music community, James built his reputation the traditional way — performing in blues clubs, roadhouses, and festival stages across Texas and beyond. His sound respects the lineage of artists like Delbert McClinton while standing firmly on his own voice as a disciplined songwriter and bandleader. Through albums like Different Hat and Good Life, James has grown a loyal audience with his road-tested musicianship and authentic songwriting.
Recorded at McKendree’s Rock House studio in Franklin, Tennessee, Motormouth features an all-star lineup of musicians, including McKendree on piano and organ, Rob McNelley on guitar, Steve Mackey on bass, Lynn Williams on drums, and members of The Time Jumpers.
For James, working alongside McKendree felt less like a traditional producer-artist collaboration and more like making music with family.
“Kevin speaks a musical language that’s rare these days,” says James. “He truly understands where I come from musically, which makes the whole process feel effortless. It’s akin to making music with family.”
McKendree echoes that sentiment, praising James’ authenticity and emotional depth. “Seth’s got this rare mix of raw emotion and pure soul,” he shares. “When he plays and sings, you feel every bit of it.”
The new album builds on the momentum of James’ previous release, Lessons, his first project with Qualified Records, which reached No. 1 on the blues charts and Top 25 on the Americana charts, marking a career milestone and expanding his national audience. With Motormouth, James leans further into his signature blend of Texas blues, soul, and roots rock — featuring tight arrangements, deep grooves, and storytelling that reflects a lifetime steeped in American music traditions.
He plans to celebrate the album with a special release event on May 8 at the Mockingbird Theater in Franklin, Tennessee, and additional tour appearances scheduled throughout Texas, the Sandy Beaches Cruise, and the Americana Music Festival.
Motormouth Track Listing:
1. “Why Should I Suffer” (Seth James, Gary Nicholson, B. Britt)
2. “Motormouth” (Kevin McKendree, Seth James)
3. “I’m In Trouble” (Seth James, Kevin McKendree, Pat McLaughlin)
4. “It’s Later Than You Think” (C. Linden)
5. “I’ll Be Gone” (H. R. Smith)
6. “High Horse” (Leon Russell)
7. “I Can’t Find Your Mind” (Seth James, Gary Nicholson, B. Britt)
8. “Just A Thought” (Delbert McClinton, A. Anderson)
9. “I Can’t Wait” (Delbert McClinton)
10. “I Got To Know” (D. Bryant)
11. “Lonely Avenue” (Doc Pomus)
12. “I Feel The Burden” (Guy Clark)
13. “Start A Brand New Day” (C. Allen)
For more information, visit www.sethjamesmusic.com and www.qualifiedrecords.com.
