Macon-based Southern blues artist Mike Clark Jr. is leaning into nostalgia while pushing his sound forward with the release of his new single, “Straddle Me.” The track, produced by Deonta Gibson, blends classic ’90s R&B textures with the grit and emotional depth that define Southern soul. It’s a deliberate fusion that feels both familiar and refreshed, tapping into a lane that continues to resonate across generations of listeners.
Driven by Clark’s signature vocal style — smooth but edged with raw intensity — “Straddle Me” centers on grown-up themes of love, desire and connection. The record channels a time when R&B leaned heavily on feeling and storytelling, something Clark says he aimed to revive. He describes the single as a return to an era when the music “was smooth, the vibe was grown, and the ladies felt every word,” adding that early reactions suggest that energy is landing exactly as intended.
The release marks another step forward for Clark as he builds momentum within the Southern blues space, a genre that has seen renewed interest in recent years. With “Straddle Me,” he positions himself at the intersection of tradition and evolution, appealing to longtime fans while pulling in newer audiences looking for authenticity. The single is now available on all major streaming platforms.
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