Brittany Howard

Brittany Amber Howard: A Musical Journey

Who is Brittany Amber Howard, and why should we care about her? Well, let’s dive into this question with a metaphorical brushstroke. Think of Brittany as the sun in a vast musical landscape, casting light on every corner with her unique blend of soulful vocals and guitar prowess.

Born on October 2, 1988, in Athens, Alabama, Brittany grew up in a home that was more than just a house—it was a junkyard. This environment, though unconventional, nurtured her creativity, teaching her to write poetry and play the piano from an early age.

But it wasn’t just about the music; she also played bass for Thunderbitch and Bermuda Triangle. These experiences were like stepping stones on a journey that would eventually lead her to stardom as the lead vocalist of Alabama Shakes.

The Rise of Alabama Shakes

Alabama Shakes, formed in 2011, was where Brittany truly found her voice. Signing with ATO Records, they released their debut album Boys & Girls in 2012. This album was a game-changer, earning them critical acclaim and four Grammy Awards. The band’s performances on late-night shows like The Late Show with Stephen Colbert further cemented their status as rising stars.

One of the highlights of their career came when Brittany performed a duet of ‘Get Back’ with Paul McCartney at Lollapalooza in 2015. This moment was not just a performance but a testament to her musical prowess and versatility.

Solo Career and Beyond

In June 2019, Brittany Howard announced her debut solo album Jaime, which received universal acclaim. The album’s success was followed by tour dates across North America and Europe. In July of the same year, she released the music video for the single ‘Stay High,’ adding another layer to her artistic expression.

On April 15, 2020, Brittany released a cover of Funkadelic’s ‘You and Your Folks, Me and My Folks’ and a new rendition of her song ‘Stay High.’ These releases kept the music community buzzing with excitement. On October 13, 2023, she dropped the title track to her second album What Now, setting the stage for what was to come.

Award-Winning and Beyond

Beyond her musical achievements, Brittany Howard has also made a name for herself in other areas. In 2014, she received the Billboard Women in Music ‘Powerhouse’ Award. In 2024, she announced a co-headlining tour with Michael Kiwanuka and even made her acting debut in the animated film Thelma the Unicorn.

The list of influences that shaped Brittany’s music is as diverse as it is impressive: Led Zeppelin, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Prince, Curtis Mayfield, David Bowie, Mavis Staples, Tom Waits, Björk, Gil Scott-Heron, Freddie Mercury, and Tina Turner. Each of these artists has left an indelible mark on her music.

A Personal Journey

Brittany Howard’s personal journey is as fascinating as it is inspiring. She came out as a lesbian at the age of 25, and in 2018, she married fellow musician Jesse Lafser. However, their marriage ended the following year. Despite these challenges, Brittany continues to thrive both personally and professionally.

As we look back on Brittany Amber Howard’s journey, it’s clear that her music is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a reflection of her life, her struggles, and her triumphs. She has shown us that with passion, perseverance, and a willingness to explore new horizons, one can achieve greatness in the world of music.

Brittany Amber Howard continues to inspire not only musicians but also anyone who dreams of making their mark on the world. Her story is a reminder that every journey, no matter how unconventional or challenging, has its own unique path and purpose.