Blues-rock superstar Joe Bonamassa has officially released two new live singles, "Bad Penny (Live)" and "Back On My Stompin’ Ground (Live)." The tracks offer an electric preview of his upcoming tribute album and concert film, The Spirit Of Rory Live From Cork, which is scheduled to arrive globally on June 19th via J&R Adventures.
Both tracks were captured live during Bonamassa’s sold-out tribute performances in Cork, Ireland—the hometown of the legendary guitarist Rory Gallagher. The project developed from an initially planned one-off concert into a three-night stand, recorded with the full blessing of the Gallagher family. The setlist reflects the raw live energy of Gallagher’s seminal Irish Tour ’74 era, balancing a visceral relationship with the local audience alongside emotional honesty.
Originally featured on Gallagher’s 1979 album Top Priority, "Bad Penny" evolved into one of his definitive swaggering signature tracks. Bonamassa’s version taps directly into that punchy, sharp guitar drive without slipping into mere imitation. Conversely, "Back On My Stompin’ Ground," which originally appeared on the 1973 record Blueprint, highlights a more personal, folk-infused side of Gallagher’s catalogue. Performed in Cork, the song serves as a resonant nod to creative roots and belonging. Early praise from Guitarist Magazine lauded the performance, noting that "Joe does his hero proud."
The full 14-song album documents the complete tribute set, spanning explosive numbers like "Walk On Hot Coals" to reflective fan favorites such as "Tattoo’d Lady." The upcoming physical release will be available across CD, DVD, Blu-ray, and a double 180-gram red marble vinyl edition. Visual formats will also feature a bonus documentary, The Inspiration of Rory, featuring exclusive historical conversations with rock icons Brian May and Slash.
A three-time Grammy nominee who recently notched his 30th number-one album on the Billboard Blues Chart, Bonamassa will support the live release with an extensive summer headline tour across North America starting this June, followed by a comprehensive European arena circuit throughout October and November.
