New Orleans is still mourning the loss of the guitarist and vocalist Walter “Wolfman” Washington, who passed away on December 22, 2022. His musical legacy lives on as an album he worked on during his final days will release this Fall. The album, Feel So At Home, will be available on Sunday, October 1.

Produced by Ben Ellman, Feel So At Home is a testament to Walter’s enduring passion for the blues and unwavering dedication to his craft. The project’s inception was a race against time, as Walter had been diagnosed with cancer, propelling Ellman and the team to ensure his artistic vision was captured before it was too late.

Michelle Bushey, Walter’s wife, expressed the emotional journey that led to the album’s creation. “This album was a labor of love and determination from its beginning,” she shared. “Walter had just been diagnosed with cancer and his producer Ben Ellman knew the clock was ticking for him to get this music recorded. It was a family affair for Walter.”

Feel So At Home boasts a collection of tracks that mirror Walter’s diverse influences and personal connection to the blues genre. The album features a blend of originals and covers, including a song from his first cousin, Ernie K-Doe, and another from his uncle, Guitar Slim. Intertwined with his original compositions, these selections offer an insight into Walter’s musical journey and the stories he aimed to convey.

To honor Walter’s memory and celebrate his artistic contributions, Ben Ellman, manager Adam Shipley, and Walter’s wife Michelle Bushey will host a unique showcase on Tuesday, October 10, on WWOZ. This commemorative event, dubbed “Walter Day,” will include performances of tracks from the album and some of Walter’s most iconic hits by broadcaster Leslie Cooper and artists Cole Williams and Marc Stone.

The festivities continue with the album release party scheduled for Wednesday, October 11, at dba. The event will feature the Roadmasters and a lineup of distinguished musical guests. This culmination of talent will also highlight the upcoming Blues and Barbeque Festival on Sunday, October 15, drawing the curtains on Walter Week, a celebration from October 8 to 15.

As Feel So At Home emerges posthumously, it is a poignant reminder of Walter “Wolfman” Washington’s enduring spirit and indelible mark on the world of blues music.