With a career spanning five decades, over 40 albums, and three Grammy nominations, Eric Bibb has firmly established himself as a commanding figure in the blues. His influence and contributions have been celebrated not only through numerous accolades but also through the deep connections his storytelling evokes. His latest album, In The Real World, further builds on that foundation, showcasing both his musical and personal evolution.

Following his Grammy-nominated 2023 release Ridin’ and the live album Live at The Scala Theatre, Bibb recorded In The Real World at Peter Gabriel’s iconic Real World Studios. The album is a vivid reflection of Bibb’s journey, giving listeners insight into his lived experiences and the hope he seeks to instill through his music. “There’s a wholeness about In The Real World that deeply moves me,” Bibb explains. “It feels like [poducer] Glen Scott and I have reached a milestone on our collaborative journey. Musically, the album feels like a self-portrait because it truly represents my influences.”

The connection between Bibb and his long-time collaborator Scott shines through in the album's composition, with each track offering a glimpse into Bibb’s evolution. Rooted deeply in the folk and blues tradition, Bibb’s sound transcends genres, and In The Real World evokes not only his personal growth but also his observations on the world around him. “It really tells me where I’ve been, where I am, and where I’m headed,” Bibb shares. “Thematically, it’s about the you-me-we connection. It’s about the world we’ve created for ourselves and the world we long for.”

Real World Studios offered the perfect backdrop for this deeply introspective album. Surrounded by natural beauty and supported by a highly skilled team, Bibb immersed himself in the creative process. “The sheer natural beauty of the grounds and the caring hospitality of the staff were inspiring, to say the least. If I had to describe the sessions in one word, it would be ‘flow,’” Bibb reflects. The production, led by Scott, features stellar contributions from musicians like Robbie McIntosh and a soul-stirring duet with Lily James. For Bibb, every track is personal, and he takes pride in the prominence of his guitar work, which stands at the heart of this project.

Bibb’s legacy is deeply intertwined with his own lineage of activism, as well as that of his father, Leon Bibb, a key figure in the civil rights movement who marched alongside Dr. Martin Luther King. This history of social consciousness has always been a central theme in Bibb’s music. The aforementioned Ridin’ drew inspiration from the painting "A Ride for Liberty," depicting a Black family fleeing enslavement during the Civil War - once again demonstrating Bibb’s ability to blend music, history, and activism. “I’ve always asked myself, ‘Am I the change I long to see?’” Bibb notes.

His music is more than just another blues album, it’s a call for unity and reflection in a divided world. With In The Real World, Eric Bibb continues his journey as both a musician and a philosopher, asking questions that resonate deeply with his fans.