If you could travel back in time to 2012 and listen to “Hold On,” the breakthrough single from Brittany Howard’s band Alabama Shakes for the first time, you might still be bowled over by the power of the singer’s vocal talent, or the magnetically laid-back groove emanating from the speakers, or Howard’s obvious, sparkling star quality. But would you peg her as an inevitable solo artist who would soon be one of rock and soul’s most restless and ambitious talents?
A dozen years later, the answer is irrefutable. On this week’s episode of New Music Friday, Ann Powers and Sheldon Pearce dig into Howard’s brand new — and, yes, masterful — album, What Now. Listening to it alongside other records also out on Feb. 9, 2024 — Joel Ross’s nublues and Kali Malone’s All Life Long — they find themselves wondering about the various forms of musical virtuosity to be found in 2024, and whether we, as listeners, still place a high enough value on that particular quality.
“Hold On” really was a defining moment in music history. Brittany Howard’s voice has this rare ability to cut straight to the soul, and it’s no surprise she’s become such a force as a solo artist. I often wonder if her solo work would have been as impactful without the foundation of Alabama Shakes. Do you think there’s a sense of nostalgia that still ties her to that era? Personally, I find her solo projects more daring and introspective, which makes me admire her even more. Which of her solo songs do you think best showcases her growth as an artist? I’d love to hear your perspective on how she’s managed to stay relevant while carving out her own unique path.
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If I could go back to 2012 and hear “Hold On” for the first time, I’d probably be just as amazed by Brittany Howard’s voice and the band’s vibe. But honestly, I’m not sure I’d have predicted her solo career would take off like it did. She’s clearly always had that star quality, but her evolution as a solo artist feels so natural yet unexpected. Do you think her solo work has surpassed what she did with Alabama Shakes? I’m curious if her solo projects feel more personal or experimental to you. Also, what’s your favorite track from her solo albums? I’d love to hear your thoughts on how she’s redefined herself since then.
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If I could go back to 2012 and hear “Hold On” for the first time, I’d probably be just as amazed by Brittany Howard’s voice and the band’s vibe. But honestly, I’m not sure I’d have predicted her solo career back then. She’s clearly grown into such a bold and innovative artist, which is incredible to see. Do you think her solo work has surpassed what she did with Alabama Shakes? I’m curious if her evolution feels natural or if it’s a complete reinvention. Also, what’s your favorite track from her solo albums? I’d love to hear your thoughts—her music always sparks such interesting conversations!
This track truly captures Brittany Howard’s undeniable talent and charisma. Her voice carries such raw emotion and power that it’s impossible not to be moved. The song’s laid-back groove feels timeless, yet her star quality shines brighter than ever. It’s fascinating to see how her solo work has evolved since then. Do you think her early work with Alabama Shakes hints at the bold direction she would later take?
Listening to “Hold On” back in 2012, it’s clear that Brittany Howard’s voice and charisma were undeniable. Her vocal talent and the band’s groove hinted at something extraordinary. Yet, few could have predicted her meteoric rise as a solo artist. Howard’s relentless ambition has solidified her as a standout in rock and soul. What inspired her to take such a bold leap into a solo career?