Ep 8. Brittany Howard

Brittany Howard, the lead singer of the Grammy-winning band Alabama Shakes, takes the stage at Austin City Limits for an unforgettable performance. In her solo career, Howard has been acclaimed for her soulful vocals and powerful lyrics, and she brings that same energy to ACL.

Opening with the high-energy track "Georgia," Howard immediately commands the attention of the audience with her dynamic voice and electric stage presence. Throughout the set, she showcases her versatility as a songwriter and performer, moving seamlessly between rock, soul, and blues influences.

Highlights of the performance include "Stay High," a soulful anthem about finding joy in everyday moments, and "Baby," a bluesy ballad with haunting vocals and sparse instrumentation. Howard's band provides a tight, groove-driven backdrop for her vocals, with standout performances from the keyboardist and guitarist.

In addition to her own material, Howard pays tribute to her roots with covers of classic Southern soul songs. She covers "You're All I Need to Get By," originally sung by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell, as well as "He Loves Me," a gospel classic by singer-songwriter Walter Hawkins. Her soulful interpretations of these beloved songs demonstrate her deep respect for the musical traditions that have influenced her work.

Throughout the show, Howard's introspective lyrics and powerful vocals leave a lasting impression on the audience. She opens up about her personal struggles and triumphs, connecting with the audience on a deep level and showcasing the emotional depth of her songwriting.

As the set draws to a close, Howard returns to her roots with a rousing rendition of "Gospel Song," celebrating the power of music to heal and uplift. The audience sings and claps along, caught up in the infectious energy of Howard's performance.

Overall, Brittany Howard's Austin City Limits performance is a tour de force of soulful vocals, powerful songwriting, and electrifying energy. From her high-energy rock anthems to her introspective ballads, Howard demonstrates her versatility and talent as a performer. Her set is a must-see for fans of soul, blues, and rock music.