Brittany Howard
Brittany Howard
Full Name and Common Aliases
Brittany Charleene Howard is a renowned American singer, songwriter, and musician. She is best known as the lead vocalist and guitarist of the indie rock band Alabama Shakes.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on October 2, 1988, in Athens, Alabama
Nationality and Profession(s)
American, Musician (vocalist, guitarist, songwriter)
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a small town in Alabama, Howard was exposed to a diverse range of music from an early age. Her parents, both music lovers themselves, introduced her to artists such as Nina Simone, Etta James, and The Black Keys. This eclectic musical upbringing laid the foundation for her future success.
As she entered her teenage years, Howard began to develop a passion for singing and songwriting. She formed her first band in high school, which eventually led to her joining forces with her future Alabama Shakes bandmates, including Zac Cockrell and Stevie Mackey. The group's early performances were met with critical acclaim, and they quickly gained a following in the Southern rock scene.
Major Accomplishments
Howard's breakthrough came in 2012 when Alabama Shakes released their debut album "Boys & Girls." The album received widespread critical acclaim, earning four Grammy nominations, including Best New Artist. Howard's powerful vocals and distinctive songwriting style were praised by critics, cementing her status as a rising star in the music industry.
Throughout her career, Howard has been recognized for her innovative approach to music. She has collaborated with artists such as Chris Stapleton, Mavis Staples, and Jay-Z, further expanding her musical horizons. In 2019, she released her debut solo album "Jaime," which debuted at number two on the Billboard 200 chart.
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Howard's most notable works include:
"Boys & Girls" (2012) - Alabama Shakes' debut album
"Sound & Color" (2015) - Alabama Shakes' critically acclaimed sophomore album
"Jaime" (2019) - Brittany Howard's solo debut album
"Two Thousand and Nineteen" (2020) - a song written in response to the COVID-19 pandemic
Impact and Legacy
Brittany Howard's impact on music is multifaceted. As the lead vocalist of Alabama Shakes, she has helped redefine the indie rock genre with her soulful, blues-infused sound. Her powerful vocals have inspired a new generation of musicians, while her innovative approach to songwriting has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in popular music.
As a solo artist, Howard continues to explore new sounds and themes, experimenting with genres such as psychedelia and electronic music. Her commitment to creative expression has earned her widespread recognition and acclaim, solidifying her position as one of the most exciting and innovative artists working today.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Brittany Howard is widely quoted and remembered for her powerful voice, genre-bending sound, and unwavering commitment to artistic expression. Her influence can be seen in a wide range of musical styles, from indie rock to soul and R&B. As a trailblazer and creative force, she continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.
Quotes by Brittany Howard
When stuff gets hard, and you’re feeling real down about everything or in a cark space, a song can bring you out of it.
I was a strange kid. I’m still strange. People didn’t get me. And I didn’t expect them to.
When I was a child I accidentally made a chemical bomb. I also ate my grandfather’s heart pills. I got my stomach pumped for that one. I got over that so by the time I hit my teens I was kind of mild. Now I’m like an old lady who occasionally parties real hard.
I probably bring four dresses on the road and rotate those. I always wear something light when I go onstage because I move around a whole lot. It's a sweaty business.
I'm not that flashy in private; I'm usually pretty reserved. But on stage, it's about not being afraid of anything - of anyone judging you. It's one place you can be free. So why not sing as loud as you can, hoop and holler and jump around? A show is a moment. When it's done, it's over. I find that extremely liberating.
I'm just really impressed by oil paintings - I don't see how people do it! That's the style I like: classic oil paintings. Abstract art just isn't my thing.
I love Jimi Hendrix obviously, and Jimmy Page and Prince. And also Elvis Presley is a really great guitar player. I don't think he ever took lessons; he was piecing it together himself. But he has great rhythm. And rhythm, to me, you can use it to your advantage if you're not all over the fretboard.
I'm not really into EDM music; I really like when someone plays their instrument and stuff. But I saw Deadmau5 at a festival, and it was pretty tight, I have to admit. He's got the giant mouse head on and tubes coming out of the ceiling and giant mirror glass things.
Once, right before a show, I realized I'd forgotten shoes. I didn't want to wear my flip-flops onstage because I could trip. I ended up going barefoot, which actually worked out because it became my 'thing.'
I've had some terrible jobs, but working in a kitchen at Cracker Barrel is probably the worst I've ever had. I was a grill cook - awful! It wasn't the smell, it was the people. The music, too. We had to be 'country fresh,' so they played this terrible country music eight hours during the shift. It was a bleak existence - a very dark time.