Miss Freddye’s Slippin’ Away: A Soulful Tribute to Love, Loss, and Blues Mastery
Miss Freddye’s single, “Slippin’ Away” is a soul-stirring blues ballad that eloquently captures the raw emotions of love and loss. As one of Pittsburgh’s most celebrated blues artists, often affectionately called “The Lady of the Blues,” Miss Freddye continues to demonstrate her command over heartfelt storytelling and emotional nuance. This release stands as a testament to her enduring artistry and dedication to her craft, and, as she told Americana Highways, “I knew this would be a great ballad that people could relate to. I love singing ballads that project a strong meaning behind them!”
The track has its origins in a 2018 composition by the late Mike Lyzenga, a revered songwriter whose legacy is etched in emotionally resonant melodies and lyrical depth. Recorded at Red Caiman Media in Pittsburgh, “Slippin’ Away” was brought to life with the collaborative efforts of an impressive lineup of musicians. Mike Huston’s emotive guitar work, Jeff Conner’s soulful keyboard performance, Greg Sejko’s steady bass lines, and Bob Dicola’s dynamic drumming create a lush instrumental foundation that perfectly complements Miss Freddye’s powerful vocal delivery. We asked her “What makes this song special?” As she put it: “It was written by a dear friend of mine who suddenly passed away 3 years ago. He mentioned he had a song that would “fit” me. Well the first note I knew I was going to fall in love with the song! It is haunting and reminds me of a relationship I was in Some years back. I can relate to everything words of this song!”
Miss Freddye herself took on the role of producer for the single, ensuring that every note and lyric reflected her vision. This personal involvement adds an intimate layer to the song, as her connection to the material shines through in every element. The result is a polished yet deeply personal piece that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
From the opening notes, “Slippin’ Away” establishes a melancholic yet beautiful tone. The instrumentation is layered with intention, providing a rich sonic tapestry that allows Miss Freddye’s voice to take center stage. Her vocal performance is nothing short of mesmerizing; she sings with a vulnerability that draws listeners into the song’s emotional landscape. As she delivers lyrics about the gradual unraveling of a once-strong love, her voice quivers with both strength and fragility, embodying the push-and-pull of holding on and letting go.
Why does she hope listeners take away from this song? Miss Freddye told us: “I hope they not only can relate to the song, but take its advice and if they need to be reminded, continue to listen and share it with others! It is that kind of a song.”
Lyrically, “Slippin’ Away” is a poignant meditation on the inevitability of change in relationships. Lines such as “I feel you slipping through my hands / like water I can’t hold” evoke a visceral sense of loss, capturing the universal experience of watching love fade despite one’s best efforts. The words are simple yet profoundly impactful, offering a raw honesty that is both heart-wrenching and cathartic.
We asked Miss Freddye how important is it that music be a part of the healing process. She answered thoughtfully: “Oh, very important! I for one have music as my “go to.” I have my moods and music soothes me, gives me energy, takes me away to places, and it shows me clarity. Some people like to keep their lives private. But, they need an outlet. I have found throughout performing, it does just that for people I have met.”
The production choices further enhance the song’s impact. The instrumentation is deliberately understated, allowing the focus to remain on the lyrics and vocals. The subtle interplay between the guitar and keyboards mirrors the ebb and flow of emotions described in the song, while the rhythm section provides a steady grounding, reflecting the resilience required to endure heartbreak.
What sets “Slippin’ Away” apart is its ability to transcend genre boundaries. While deeply rooted in the blues tradition, the song also incorporates elements of soul and gospel, reflecting Miss Freddye’s versatility as an artist. This fusion creates a sound that feels both classic and contemporary, appealing to a broad audience. Longtime fans of the blues will appreciate the song’s authenticity and respect for tradition, while new listeners may find themselves drawn to its relatable themes and emotional resonance.
Miss Freddye’s decision to release “Slippin’ Away” as a single also reflects her commitment to sharing stories that matter. She has spoken about her desire to connect with listeners on a personal level, and this track exemplifies that mission. The song not only showcases her technical skill and vocal prowess but also her ability to communicate complex emotions with grace and honesty.
In the context of Miss Freddye’s broader discography, “Slippin’ Away” stands out as a significant milestone. It reinforces her reputation as a torchbearer for contemporary blues while showcasing her growth as an artist and producer. The single serves as a reminder of the power of music to heal, connect, and inspire.
Ultimately, “Slippin’ Away” is a deeply moving and beautifully crafted piece of music that cements Miss Freddye’s place as one of the most compelling voices in modern blues. Its poignant lyrics, emotive vocals, and rich instrumentation come together to create a timeless track that will resonate with listeners for years to come. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the blues or a newcomer to the genre, “Slippin’ Away”
is a must-listen that captures the heartache and beauty of love’s fleeting nature.
Find more information including show dates, here on her website: https://missfreddye.com
