The song appears on Mason’s forthcoming album
The searing opening lines of “Use It, Or Lose It,” featuring Joe Bonamassa on lead guitar and trading vocals with Dave Mason, set the stage for A Shade of Blues — Mason’s 21st studio album, arriving March 21st via his own Barham Records. With a career spanning over six decades, Mason—founding member of Traffic and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee—dives deep into his blues roots, delivering a dynamic and soul-stirring collection.
More than a decade in the making, this blues-infused masterpiece highlights Mason’s signature artistry and collaborative spirit. Reflecting on working with Bonamassa, he shared: “I’ve been fortunate to play alongside some of the greatest guitarists—Jimi Hendrix among them. To now collaborate with a powerhouse like Joe Bonamassa, a torchbearer for the next generation, is a thrill. You can feel that energy in the music and I think it truly shines.
In addition to Bonamassa, the album features an impressive lineup of additional guest artists Michael McDonald, Mike Finnigan, Warren Hill, and more. The album also sets the stage for Mason’s highly anticipated 2025 tour, celebrating over five decades of electrifying performances and sold-out shows worldwide. The tour kicks off March 20th in Augusta and continues through May 14th in Cincinnati. Mason will also perform with Kansas and .38 Special for a string of dates in July. Full itinerary is below.
Blues has been a cornerstone of Mason’s music since his earliest days with Traffic, where he performed alongside Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood. From penning timeless classics like “Feelin’ Alright” and “Only You Know and I Know” to collaborating with legends such as Jimi Hendrix (“All Along the Watchtower,” “Crosstown Traffic”) and The Rolling Stones (“Street Fighting Man”), Mason’s contributions to music are unparalleled.
