Alabama Shakes' Brittany Howard
Summary
Brittany Howard discusses Alabama Shakes’ return with their first album in 11 years, *I Must Be Dreaming*, which formed organically after reuniting to support a friend’s bar. She reflects on the band’s evolution from their wild early days to a more mature dynamic, sharing stories about meeting Bill Withers and her journey from a mail carrier to headlining Coachella. Howard also touches on her solo work, the creative process behind new tracks, and the importance of artistic expression in uncertain times.
Topics discussed
Intro: Brittany Howard and the new Alabama Shakes album
Tour anecdotes and the bar owner's struggle
How the new album naturally unfolded
Musical growth and early touring days
Meeting Bill Withers and other musical icons
Influences: Retro soul vs. rock experimentation
Brittany's punk aggression and guitar origins
Childhood musical awakening and finding her voice
Reconnecting with Heath and forming the band
Early gigs, recording demos, and the tornado
Industry timing and the power of Brittany's voice
Zach's bass lines and hip-hop influences
Comparing to Led Zeppelin and artistic reinvention
Solo work, creative freedom, and pandemic struggles
Catharsis in music and barbecue playlist vibes
Political climate, community, and social outrage
Working with producer Sean and studio experiments
Live songwriting and playing 'Easy' for her fiancé
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