Chicago-born alternative rock powerhouse Blake Red storms back onto the scene with her most unapologetic and personal project to date: the new EP, Out of the Cage, released October 3rd. This electrifying collection marks Red’s return after a four-year hiatus, serving as both a tribute to her late father and a bold statement of resilience, artistry, and authenticity.
Raw Emotion, Unfiltered Sound
Dedicated to the memory of her father, who inspired her musical journey, Out of the Cage is a cathartic journey through vulnerability and fury. Each track pulses with towering guitar riffs, blistering basslines, and Red’s signature soaring vocals. The EP’s lead singles, “Scorpion” and “Secrets Are No Fun,” set the tone with their venomous energy and honest lyricism—refusing to pull any punches while exploring themes of defiance and healing.
Red’s hands-on approach is evident throughout: she takes the reins on electric guitar, bass, and vocals, joined by drummer Macklin Suhre, with Tom McGeoch lending his talents to “Scorpion” and Daniel Farnsworth featured on select tracks. The project is co-produced by Blake Red and GRAMMY-winner Darryl Swann (Macy Gray, Black Eyed Peas), who brings a sharp, polished edge to the record’s heavy, raw soundscape.
Breaking Barriers in Alternative Rock
As a Black female artist in heavy music, Blake Red continues to challenge the genre’s boundaries. Out of the Cage is not just a comeback; it’s a fearless reclamation of voice and a testament to her growth as a songwriter and performer. The EP’s powerful sound and unfiltered storytelling cement her reputation as an artist unafraid to bare both wounds and weapons through music.
Red’s artistry shines brightest in her ability to channel pain into empowerment, making this body of work resonate deeply with listeners seeking both strength and sincerity. Her music stands as a reminder that vulnerability and resilience can coexist—and even thrive—within the same song.
Celebrating the Release
To mark the launch of Out of the Cage, Blake Red headlined a special release show at Chicago’s Epiphany Center for the Arts. The event underscored her commitment to connection and intensity, both on stage and in the studio.
What first sparked your passion for music?
I think back to being a little girl, strapped in my car seat, grooving along with the music that my parents played while driving. Music was always something I naturally gravitated towards. I was inspired by music before I was old enough to learn an instrument. It has always been a part of me.
Who were your earliest musical inspirations?
My dad, Dr. John B. McClellan, was my earliest musical inspiration. He played trumpet in his own band called Jazz in the Forest. I would sit in with them on occasions, and that was pretty much the start of my music career. He was so enthusiastic and encouraging about me learning music. He bought several instruments for me to learn, including my first clarinet, saxophone, piano, and drum kit.
How would you describe your sound and style?
Fierce, heavy, cathartic, and powerful, yet melodic. I love big and heavy electric guitars, electric bass, and drums.
Is there a venue or city that holds special meaning for you? Chicago is my hometown, so its music scene is very meaningful to me. Other cities I really enjoyed playing in include Seattle and Minneapolis. I could almost feel the spirits of the greats that came before me in those cities. For instance, in Minneapolis I truly felt the power and inspiration of Prince!
How do you manage performance nerves, and has that changed over time?
In the past I’ve struggled a lot with performance anxiety, to the point of not playing any shows for about a year. I realized that I missed connecting with audiences while onstage sharing my music. I come to life in a special way while performing, so how can I give that up? I still get nervous, but I’m able to tell myself that everything will be ok and power my way through.
What’s the most important message you want your fans to take from your music?
Life comes in stages; some are harder than others, and there is always hope and love. It’s ok to feel hurt; express your feelings, and you are never alone. You are so much stronger than you realize. Keep living life and believe in yourself. My new EP “Out of the Cage” is all about finding your own inner strength and resilience.
What’s your favorite song to perform live, and why?
I love playing my song “The Cradle” live. It’s got such a cool main riff and unique beat. The solo is also a blast to play! A new mix of the track is included as a bonus track on the new EP, so that helped renew my love of the song.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be?
Teleportation! I could go anywhere in the world at any given moment.
Which actor would play you in a movie about your life?
Zoe Kravitz or Zendaya
Are you more of a cat person or a dog person?
I’m a dog person. I’m extremely allergic to cats, unfortunately! I have a tiny dog that my mom and I rescued named Gingi. My family had an amazing golden retriever named Logan who passed just a week before “Out of the Cage” was released. He was 13 years old.
If you had a time machine, would you go forward or backward?
I would go backwards to relive my childhood and all the great memories with loved ones past and present. I can wait for the future!
What makes you nostalgic?
Old disney movies and fun sequels/reboots like “Freakier Friday”
About Blake Red
A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Blake Red has released three studio EPs since her 2018 debut. With Out of the Cage, she delivers her boldest statement yet—uniting passionate lyricism, sonic ferocity, and a fearless commitment to authenticity. Her journey continues to inspire and empower, reminding us of the transformative power of music.
Listen to Out of the Cage on Spotify
For more emerging artist features and music industry inspiration, keep reading Divine Magazine.
1 Comment
I am so proud of you. From that little girl jumping on the bed to a Rock star. I am saving my airfare to Hollywood. Sheryl