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Norah Jones is joined by Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and Alabama Shakes frontwoman Brittany Howard for a collaborative performance and discussion about her musical journey, the band's reunion, and their creative processes. Howard explains how writing and recording are sparked by learning new tools, such as software or instruments, rather than staring at a blank page. The conversation explores the origins of Alabama Shakes in an Athens, Alabama high school, where Howard and bassist Zach Cockrell started writing together as teenagers, and discusses Howard's dynamic solo work, including her collaboration with drummer Nate Smith on the albums Jamie and What Now.
The episode opens with the host, Nora Jones, introducing herself and welcoming listeners to the show.
Nora introduces Brittany Howard, discusses her solo albums and the new Alabama Shakes release, and sets the stage for their collaboration.
Brittany recounts her early music experiences, school collaborations, and the formation of Alabama Shakes.
Nora and Brittany share their excitement about finally playing together, reflecting on their past and the thrill of the moment.
The conversation shifts to how the band writes and records, the role of each member, and the evolution of their sound on the new album.
Nora and Brittany discuss the energy of live shows, stage dynamics, and the importance of connecting with the audience.
They dive into the creation of the track “Stay High,” including unique drum techniques and the collaboration with Nate Smith.
The hosts wrap up the episode, thank Brittany, and tease upcoming shows and future podcast episodes.
Writing a Different Kind of Love Songinsight
The guest explains the moral behind her song, noting that she wanted to write a love song about not wishing for something if you are not willing to take care of it.
Taking a Break From Touringinsight
The guest discusses why the band took a ten-year break between albums to enjoy the rewards of hard work and get to know themselves.
Starting to Make Music at Elevenstory
The guest shares that she started making music and trying to be in a band at age eleven, initially wanting to play bass before switching to guitar.
High School Parking Lot Demosstory
The guest shares the nerve-wracking story of playing her home-recorded demos for bassist Zach Cockrell in his Honda Civic outside their high school.
Discovering a Powerful Vocal Rangestory
The guest reveals that she only discovered her powerful singing voice because her early rehearsals lacked a PA system, forcing her to lean in to be heard over the drums.
Recording Drums with Wooden Chopsticksdata
The guest shares a funny studio detail about her track Stay High, where engineer Sean Everett had drummer Nate Smith play the kit using disposable wooden chopsticks.
“I found I couldn't, I wasn't loud enough. So I had to really lean into my voice to be heard over the drums.”
“The drums that you're hearing in Stay High is played by chopsticks. Sean Everett, the engineer, had this idea. He's like, I want to make the drums sound really, really powerful.”
“We have organist Ben Tanner. And then on the keys, we have Paul Horton. And then we have three background singers. Because I like to layer my harmonies and things like that.”
GRAMMY-winning singer, songwriter, guitarist, and singular vocalist Brittany Howard joins Norah, fresh off the release of Alabama Shakes’ new album and following two acclaimed solo records of her own.
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