Ladies and gentlemen, Brittany Howard of Alabama Shakes.
I really had no idea who Alabama Shakes were until the Grammys, which is shame, because they are great. You know those times when you hear a voice, song, or lyric that just brings a tear to your eyes? Well, this band just blew the roof of the music world with that perfect combination. They’ve been together since 2009 and are getting the recognition they deserve now.
But I am so in awe of this woman. Any skinny white woman can sing and play the guitar, but goddamn… listening to Brittany Howard sing is a religious experience. If you have not listened to Alabama Shakes, please do yourself a favor and youtube “Hold On.” Her voice is incredible, and it takes real bravery to be a woman of size and color (mixed color) to command a stage the way Brittany does. She is a role model in my eyes for anyone who has an ounce of talent in their body, anyone who looks different.
I hate to make comparisons, but I swear she is Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix’s love child, Etta James and Phoebe Snow’s long-lost sister. I am in love with her. I’ve been listening to their album all day long, and it’s safe to say they are on their way up in the music world. Alabama Shakes will be appearing on Saturday Night Live on Feb. 16 with Christoph Waltz as host. I will be watching, and applauding.