Enjoying the Perfect Sunday in L.A. with Christone ‘Kingfish’ Ingram’s Tips
Clarksdale, Mississippi, known as the birthplace of the blues, is often associated with legends. It is here, at the crossroads of Highways 61 and 49, that Robert Johnson allegedly sold his soul to the devil in exchange for his musical prowess. The town has produced numerous musical icons, including Muddy Waters, W.C. Handy, John Lee Hooker, and Ike Turner. Among its modern legends is Christone “Kingfish” Ingram, a Grammy Award-winning musician whom Buddy Guy has described as “the next explosion of blues.”
Kingfish spent his formative years in and around Clarksdale, where he learned to play guitar at the Delta Blues Museum at just eight years old. By the age of ten, he was performing in local clubs, and at fourteen, he played for then-First Lady Michelle Obama at the White House as part of a student musician delegation. His deep connection to his roots is evident in the title of his second album, “662,” named for the area’s code.
The musician later moved to Los Angeles, following a relationship that eventually did not last but left him with a lasting affection for the city. He relocated to Hollywood a year and a half ago, where he built a recording studio in his home and co-founded Red Zero Records, a label aimed at highlighting talented but overlooked blues artists. Much of his latest album, “Hard Road,” infused with blues, rock, funk, and soul, was recorded in his home studio.
“I dig it here man,” Kingfish said. “You have everything at your fingertips whenever you want, lots of resources. And the weather, it doesn’t get cold, and although it can get hot, it’s nothing like back in Mississippi. L.A. blows my mind.”
In a recent Zoom interview from his home, Kingfish shared insights into his typical Sunday, revealing how music permeates his daily life.
7:30 a.m.: Music man
Kingfish starts his day by immersing himself in his studio, listening to tracks he recorded the night before or discovering new music for inspiration.
8:30 a.m.: A smoothie and sweat
His breakfast often includes a green smoothie with kale, spinach, bananas, and blueberries or eggs with fruit. Afterward, he exercises on his treadmill, located in his garage alongside his drums.
10 a.m.: Studio redux
“Music pretty much runs my life,” he noted. He utilizes his home studio to create whenever inspiration strikes.
Noon: Healthful eats
For lunch, he frequents local spots like Mr. Charlie’s or Tender Greens, which offer healthy options. Under the guidance of a dietitian, he has lost 60 pounds and noticed increased energy on stage.
1:30 p.m.: Guitar nirvana
After lunch, he travels to Guitar Center to explore new gear. “Anytime a musician can walk into a room full of gear, it’s great,” he remarked, sharing that he owns around 70 to 80 guitars.
3:30 p.m.: I want to take you higher
Kingfish mentioned the great dispensaries in his area, emphasizing the quality of product available in Los Angeles, which he finds beneficial for his creative process.
5 p.m.: Grooving at the Grove
Living near the Grove, he enjoys spending time there around the holidays, people-watching and enjoying good dining options like Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill. He also visits stores, including his favorite spot for stage clothes.
7:30 p.m.: The Sun Rose
A local lounge, The Sun Rose, attracts Kingfish with its diverse musical offerings, including R&B and jazz. He is currently planning a blues-centric event there for 2026.
10 p.m.: Rock on
Concluding his day in his studio, Kingfish focuses on his music, whether working on his own projects or producing signed artists like Dylan Triplett and Mathias Lattin. He aims to create a vibrant atmosphere, often inviting fellow musicians over to collaborate late into the night.
This insight into Kingfish’s life reflects a deep commitment to fostering his craft while balancing personal wellness and creativity.
