Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile Gershwin Prize 2024 (cropped)

Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile (born June 1, 1981) is an American singer-songwriter and producer whose music spans multiple genres. Carlile has released several albums and has received critical acclaim for her work. She is known for her powerful voice and emotive songwriting.

Early Life

Brandi Carlile was born in Ravensdale, Washington, a small town 30 miles outside of Seattle. She taught herself to sing at a young age and began performing country songs on stage when she was eight years old. Carlile dropped out of high school to pursue a career in music.

Career

Early Career

Carlile began her career performing in Seattle music clubs with twin brothers Tim and Phil Hanseroth. She released her self-titled debut album, Brandi Carlile, in 2005. The album received positive reviews and helped her gain a following.

Breakthrough

Her second album, The Story, was released in 2007 and produced by T Bone Burnett. The title track was used in a commercial for General Motors and brought her wider recognition. The album was certified Gold in 2017.

Continued Success

Carlile's third album, Give Up the Ghost, was released in 2009 and featured collaborations with Elton John and Amy Ray of Indigo Girls. Her fourth album, Bear Creek, was released in 2012 and debuted at number 10 on the Billboard 200.

Recent Work

In 2018, Carlile released By the Way, I Forgive You, which received critical acclaim and earned her six Grammy Award nominations, including Album of the Year. She won three Grammys, including Best Americana Album. In 2021, she released In These Silent Days, which also received positive reviews.

Personal Life

Carlile is openly lesbian and married Catherine Shepherd in 2012. They have two daughters. Carlile is an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and has been involved in various charitable activities.

Discography

• Brandi Carlile (2005)
• The Story (2007)
• Give Up the Ghost (2009)
• Bear Creek (2012)
• The Firewatcher's Daughter (2015)
• By the Way, I Forgive You (2018)
• In These Silent Days (2021)

Awards and Nominations

Carlile has received multiple awards and nominations throughout her career, including several Grammy Awards.

See Also

• List of LGBT musicians
• Americana (music)
• Grammy Award for Best Americana Album