Out Today: Corey Congilio Releases Razor-Edged EP 'A Good Place To Start'

ACCLAIMED SINGER-SONGWRITER & GUITARIST
COREY CONGILIO
RELEASES RAZOR-EDGED SIX-TRACK EP
A GOOD PLACE TO START
TODAY

Above: ‘A Good Place To Start’ EP artwork

NASHVILLE, TN (August 19, 2025) — Today, acclaimed Nashville-based singer-songwriter and guitarist Corey Congilio steps into the spotlight with the release of his virtuosic six-track cover EP, A Good Place To Start. More than a collection of beloved songs, the project is a spirited journey through the heart of the blues — a genre that has shaped Corey’s musical DNA. Each track is lovingly reimagined, breathing fresh life into timeless classics while honoring their roots.  He isn’t just recreating his favorite recordings — he’s listening for the moments in between the notes, where inspiration strikes and the song can be created anew. 

STREAM A GOOD PLACE TO START HERE.

“This collection of songs is a good place to start,” Corey shares. “This EP marks my first release focusing on blues music, and through it, I hope the reverence I have for these artists, songs, and writers shines through. I chose lesser-known songs by some of my favorite legendary blues artists to highlight the many hidden gems that reside in the genre. With my unique arrangements and modern takes on these classics, A Good Place To Start serves as a tribute to the rich legacy of blues music.”

Corey recently sat down with V13 to delve into the artistry behind each track on the project. In their feature, V13 praised his dedication and longevity, writing: “Out of all popular music genres, the blues requires a particular devotion, which Corey Congilio possesses in abundance… For 25 years now, Congilio has been a mainstay of the mainstream music industry. He has literally done it all… his résumé is sparkling.”

The project was introduced by a series of singles throughout the spring and summer. Most recently, on July 23, Corey took “Two Headed Woman” through the filters of ZZ Top and Gary Moore, while keeping the original track intact, with his blues inspirations on full display as he reimagined their sounds for a modern audience. The accompanying music video puts Corey’s musicianship front and center, with shots of his 1964 Gibson SG Junior amplifying the rock and roll edge and adding gritty guitar riffs underneath the fundamental blues lyrics originally penned by Willie Dixon and recorded by Junior Wells. 

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO FOR “TWO HEADED WOMAN” BELOW:

As the third release of the project, Corey unveiled his soft rock take on Bobby “Blue” Bland’s soulful classic “I Wouldn’t Treat a Dog (The Way You Treated Me)” on June 25, originally released in 1974. Corey’s rendition blends pop-tinged organ swells with crisp electric guitar lines, capturing the warmth and grit of a golden-era groove. The accompanying music video spotlights Corey’s musicianship, featuring his 1961 Epiphone Casino front and center — amplifying the retro vibe and letting the soul of the song take the lead.

On April 30, Corey put a fresh spin on “Who’s Been Talkin’” — a groovy, soul-infused reinterpretation of the 1961 Howlin’ Wolf original. While staying true to the song’s roots, Corey’s smooth vocals and modern edge breathe new life into the timeless track. He found a Caribbean groove with a focus on the keys instead of the harmonica from the original, weaving in a mournful guitar to reminisce on the relationship gone wrong. 

Corey gave the first glimpse at A Good Place To Start on April 2 with “Me” — an electrifying take of the 1969 blues classic originally recorded by Otis Rush. Corey reveals, “Not only did I love the groove and the playing but the lyrics really grabbed me as it tells a story about life’s struggles and how often the only friend we have is ourselves. Though it predates me, it feels like it was written from my perspective. Written by Mike Bloomfield and Nick Gravenites, it’s steeped in blues history, which I hope to honor in my version.” Watch the “Me” official lyric video here.

A GOOD PLACE TO START TRACK LISTING:
“Me” (Otis Rush)
“Who’s Been Talkin’” (Howlin’ Wolf)
“I Wouldn’t Treat A Dog (The Way You Treated Me)” (Bobby “Blue” Bland)
“Heebie Jeebies” (Johnny Copeland)
“Hot Little Mama” (Johnny Guitar Watson)
“Two Headed Woman” (Junior Wells)

Above: Corey Congilio; Credit: Jon Karr

For 25 years, this guitar-slinging hired gun has been the quiet force behind the scenes — touring guitarist, session musician, educator, and presenter. Corey’s resume includes performances with artists like Joss Stone, David Lee Murphy, Lucie Silvas, Radney Foster, Cassadee Pope, Derek St. Holmes, Danielle Bradbery, Laura Bell Bundy, and Barbara Blue. Now based in Nashville, he’s stepped into the spotlight, wielding his six-string stories like a weapon aimed at your soul. 

However, Corey’s impact goes beyond the stage. Since 2010, he’s authored over 30 instructional guitar courses, helping players of all levels hone their skills. Through his platform WorkingClassGuitar.com and his popular YouTube channel with 116k subscribers, Corey shares weekly lessons, performances, and gear reviews.

Through his music, teaching, and collaborations, Corey embraces the philosophy of betting on oneself. “I’ve always felt like the underdog,” he says, “and I’m continuing to put those feelings into songs. I want listeners to take the risk and bet on themselves — whether they’re a musician, videographer, small business owner, or anything else. You have nothing to lose, and you might just succeed.”

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