Martin Reynolds is back, and he’s turning up the volume on heartfelt rock ‘n’ roll with his latest single, Why Do I?, released on January 31, 2025. Following the success of his critically acclaimed debut album Where There’s Hope, which was praised by Counteract Magazine as a “tonic” for the uncertain post-pandemic times, Reynolds is now exploring new sonic terrain. This time, he’s stepping away from the self-produced solo approach and collaborating with his band, The Minor Detours, to deliver a rollicking yet deeply introspective anthem.
Drawing inspiration from legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Neil Young, Reynolds crafts a song that blends classic rock influences with raw, personal storytelling. Why Do I? is a reflection on selflessness, resilience, and the delicate balance of putting others before yourself while still preserving your own well-being. With poetic lyrics and an infectious melody, the song delivers an emotional gut-punch wrapped in vintage rock energy.
“It’s about putting others before yourself and sometimes forgetting to look after your own well-being, and all the consequences that can come with it,” says Reynolds. “But as the lyrics say—‘It ain’t a break it’s a bruise, I take the rough with the smooth, I always thought life was a gift, that way I could never lose’—it’s about knowing that whatever you may be going through, and however difficult it may be, everything is temporary, and it will pass. Deep down, I’m just grateful to have a shot at this thing called life.”
One of the standout elements of Why Do I? is the special guest feature by legendary jazz musician and composer Tom “Bones” Malone, whose credits include The Blues Brothers, The Band, Paul McCartney, and Miles Davis. Malone’s signature trombone adds an unexpected and dynamic layer to the track, elevating it into something truly unique.
Reynolds is joined by his band, The Minor Detours, consisting of Dan Craik on lead guitar, Nick Mills on double bass, and Sam Higgins on piano. Together, they create a sound that is both classic and refreshingly modern, blending rock ‘n’ roll grit with a timeless musicality.
The song was recorded, mixed, and produced by Reynolds himself at Sinewave Studios in Tamworth, UK, specifically in the legendary Live Room 2. To ensure the track’s sonic excellence, it was mastered by none other than Pete Maher, who has worked with The Pixies, Jack White, Paul Weller, and The Rolling Stones.
With Why Do I?, Martin Reynolds proves once again that he’s not just a songwriter—he’s a storyteller, a musician with a knack for weaving deep emotions into electrifying melodies. The single captures the kind of authenticity that’s rare in today’s overproduced music landscape. It’s honest, it’s heartfelt, and above all, it rocks.
For those who love classic rock with a modern twist, Why Do I? is a must-listen. Whether you’re grappling with life’s challenges or simply looking for a track that makes you feel something real, Reynolds and The Minor Detours have got you covered. The single is available now on all major streaming platforms, and with its powerful message and unforgettable groove, it’s bound to be a standout hit of 2025.
