Taj Mahal on Resurrecting a Lost Bill Withers Song as Title Track of New Album, ‘Time,’ More Than 60 Releases Into His Career: ‘I’m in It for the Duration’ (EXCLUSIVE)

Why It Matters

The project bridges generations by bringing a lost Bill Withers song to modern audiences, while reaffirming Taj Mahal’s status as a prolific, genre‑spanning artist whose continued acclaim drives interest in legacy blues music.

Key Takeaways

• Taj Mahal releases new album “Time” May 1.
• Title track is unreleased Bill Withers composition.
• Album features Ziggy Marley and Phantom Blues Band.
• Mahal earned lifetime and competitive Grammys in 2025.
• Career spans 77 years with over 60 albums.

Pulse Analysis

Taj Mahal’s upcoming album “Time” is more than a routine release; it resurrects a never‑heard‑before song written by the late Bill Withers. By securing the blessing of Withers’ widow, Mahal not only honors a soul legend but also taps into a rare catalog of unreleased material that can attract both blues purists and broader streaming audiences. The collaboration highlights how legacy artists can leverage archival gems to generate fresh content, a strategy increasingly valuable in today’s content‑driven music economy.

At 84, Mahal’s career longevity is a case study in artistic adaptability. After winning a lifetime‑achievement Grammy and a competitive Grammy for Best Traditional Blues Album in 2025, he demonstrates that veteran musicians can still command critical and commercial attention. His extensive discography—north of 60 releases—provides a deep well for licensing, sync opportunities, and curated playlists, reinforcing the commercial viability of blues heritage in the digital age. The album’s pre‑order push and simultaneous tour schedule further amplify revenue streams across physical, digital, and live‑event channels.

“Time” also exemplifies cross‑genre synthesis, weaving blues, jazz, reggae, and soul into a cohesive narrative. Guest appearances by Ziggy Marley and the steadfast Phantom Blues Band broaden the album’s appeal to reggae and jazz listeners, while the thematic focus on “soul” aligns with current consumer cravings for authentic, emotionally resonant music. As Mahal embarks on a nationwide tour, the live performances will likely boost streaming numbers and reinforce his brand as a cultural bridge, positioning him as a pivotal figure in sustaining and evolving the blues market for future generations.