Chris O’Leary

Chris O’Leary is a devastatingly soulful vocalist, dynamic harmonica master, and gifted songwriter whose music draws from authentic Chicago and roots blues traditions. A Marine combat veteran and former federal police officer turned professional musician, he launched his career fronting Levon Helm’s Barn Burners for six years—touring the U.S. and Canada and sharing stages with legends like James Cotton, Bobby Keys, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Raised in Schenectady, New York, Chris discovered blues after hearing Muddy Waters’ Hard Again, and quickly became a disciple of James Cotton—both an artistic inspiration and personal mentor.

His solo career includes a 2011 debut album, Mr. Used to Be, which won the Blues Blast Award for Best New Artist Debut CD and earned a nomination for a Blues Music Award. His Alligator Records debut, The Hard Line (released January 12, 2024), shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Blues Chart and dominated blues radio charts worldwide, featuring 12 original songs shaped by pandemic downtime and deep life experience. Known for his commanding stage presence, gritty tenor vocals, and urgent locomotive harmonica playing, Chris delivers performances that feel both authentic and electrifying—rooted in a life fully lived.

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