Five-time GRAMMY Award winner Keb’ Mo’ has released a deeply personal new single, “One Day Away”, taken from his forthcoming album The Breakdown.
Due for release on 21 August 2026 through Concord Records, the new album was created during one of the most difficult periods of the acclaimed blues musician’s life. Keb’ Mo’ was recovering from life-saving open-heart surgery while also coming to terms with the end of his marriage of nearly 20 years.
“One Day Away” offers a message of hope in the face of uncertainty, reminding listeners that circumstances can change and that even the most painful moments can eventually lead somewhere better.
“This was the last song written for the album, and it holds a special meaning for me,” Keb’ Mo’ said. “It’s a reminder that life can change in an instant—that even the hardest moments can turn around, and what seems impossible today can become a blessing tomorrow.”
The single has been released alongside an official live performance video and follows the recent arrival of “Fussing and Fighting” and “Hand It Over”, which features South Africa’s Soweto Gospel Choir.
More than five decades into his career, Keb’ Mo’ has become one of the most respected figures in contemporary blues and roots music. His achievements include five GRAMMY Awards, an Americana Music Association Lifetime Achievement Award and performances at venues ranging from Carnegie Hall to the White House. His songs have also been recorded by artists including B.B. King and BTS.
His career, however, nearly came to an abrupt end in 2024. After experiencing shortness of breath while touring with Slash, Keb’ Mo’ was admitted to hospital and underwent open-heart surgery. He recorded The Breakdown at his home studio outside Nashville while recovering from the procedure.
The stripped-back, ten-track collection features Keb’ Mo’s voice and guitar alongside carefully chosen contributions from the Soweto Gospel Choir and the celebrated gospel group Take 6. It finds the musician reflecting openly on ageing, relationships, change and the passage of time.
“I had to go through some difficult experiences to get these songs,” he explained. “But I learned a lot looking back on my life and my relationships and taking inventory of everything in a new light.”
Despite the personal pain behind the record, The Breakdown is ultimately shaped by hope, resilience and gratitude.
“I’m turning 75 this year, and I know I won’t be around forever,” Keb’ Mo’ said. “All you can do is make the most of what you’ve got and be grateful for every step of the journey.”
“One Day Away” is available to stream and download now:
https://i.concordjazz.com/kebmo_onedayaway
The Breakdown will be released on 21 August 2026 through Concord Records.
The Breakdown tracklist
- Fussing and Fighting
- Every Step of the Way
- They Don’t Make ’Em Like They Used To featuring Take 6
- More Yesterdays
- We Make Love
- Walking on Water
- Hand It Over featuring Soweto Gospel Choir
- Living in the Moment
- Stitched Up Heart
- One Day Away