Spencer Mackenzie covers classic Rory Gallagher song
JUNO-nominated and Maple Blues Award-winning blues-rock guitarist Spencer Mackenzie has released “Don’t Know Where I’m Going,” the fourth single from his forthcoming studio album Empty Chairs. The track is available now on all major digital platforms and on YouTube.
“Don’t Know Where I’m Going” sees Mackenzie put a high-energy blues-rock spin on the Rory Gallagher classic, transforming the originally acoustic song into a gritty, full-band performance. Featuring overdriven guitar tones and a fast-moving rhythm section, the track reflects Mackenzie’s modern blues-rock approach while maintaining the spirit of Gallagher’s original composition.
Mackenzie’s upcoming album Empty Chairs is scheduled for release on February 20, 2026, via Gypsy Soul Records. The album was produced by Ross Hayes Citrullo, a two-time JUNO nominee and Emmy Award-winning producer, mixer, and engineer, who is also known as the guitarist for The Commoners.
According to Citrullo, the goal in producing the album was to capture authenticity and intensity. “What we caught on this album is honesty and fire,” he said. “Spencer’s playing is fearless, his voice wide open, and every take breathes like a live show you don’t want to end. It’s the blues, lit up with a rock edge—hitting with modern bite and a timeless feel.”
Empty Chairs blends traditional blues influences with the energy of contemporary blues-rock, showcasing Mackenzie’s fluid phrasing, resonant tone, and dynamic vocals. The album features electrifying guitar work, punchy riffs, soaring organ, and an explosive rhythm section, further solidifying Mackenzie’s growing reputation in the genre.
Hailing from Southern Ontario, Mackenzie has spent nearly a decade writing and recording blues-rooted music while earning accolades and building an international following. His high-energy live performances have taken him across Canada, Europe, and the United States, with appearances at major festivals including the Montreal International Jazz Festival, Festival d’été de Québec, Moulin Blues Ospel, Ribs & Blues Raalte, and Kulturring Schöppingen Blues Festival. He has also shared stages with artists such as Walter Trout, Fantastic Negrito, Samantha Fish, and Jesse Dayton.
Track listing for Empty Chairs:
- Empty Chairs (4:29)
- Trip (3:25)
- What You Do (4:28)
- Don’t Know Where I’m Going (3:11)
- Till I Get to You (3:57)
- Frozen Hearts (4:09)
- Helping Hands (3:18)
- Why (3:58)
- Shoot Me Down (4:08)
- Won’t Find Her (3:18)
- Evil (3:57)
