In 1995, Maya Angelou addressed the United Nations with a poem titled “A Brave and Startling Truth,” delving into humanity’s dual nature—its potential for destruction and healing, cruelty, and kindness. Fast forward twenty-five years, and Grammy-winning artist Brittany Howard draws inspiration from Angelou’s hopeful message. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, Howard creates the uplifting song “Another Day,” envisioning a world where individuals can freely express themselves.
Reflecting on the tumultuous times, Howard shares the fear and uncertainty that gripped her during the pandemic. Issues like Black Lives Matter, unjust violence, natural disasters, and societal unrest compelled her to create “Another Day.” The song encapsulates her attempt to find stability amidst chaos, emphasizing the importance of mindset when faced with uncontrollable external factors.
Crafting a Genre-Blurring World in “What Now”
Brittany Howard’s creative prowess extends beyond her latest single. Her second solo album, “What Now,” set to release on Feb. 9, showcases her ability to blur genre boundaries. The album becomes a canvas for Howard to build not only a musical world but also an emotional one. She candidly addresses her quest for healing, exploring her determination to avoid unhealthy relationships.
One distinctive element of “What Now” is Howard’s use of singing bowls, which weave through the tracks, creating a meditative atmosphere for listeners. This intentional inclusion reflects Howard’s commitment to inviting her audience into a reflective and contemplative space.
Exploring Self-Healing Through Music
In a candid revelation, Howard admits to taking responsibility for her own heartbreak by participating in unhealthy relationships. The album’s single, “Red Flags,” showcases her vocal range and acts as a poignant reminder of the need for self-awareness in relationships. Howard’s arrangement of harmonies, inspired by 1940s male vocal groups, adds a nostalgic touch to the song, evoking the sentiment of forlorn love songs.
The tracks “I Don’t” and “Earth Sign” transport listeners to the doo-wop era of the 1950s, showcasing Howard’s versatility as a singer, composer, multi-instrumentalist, and engineer. She pays homage to her influences, incorporating five to seven harmonies arranged within a short timeframe.
Beyond Music: A Multifaceted Artist’s Inspiration
While showcasing her musical talents, Howard draws inspiration from artists like Missy Elliott, emphasizing the importance of being a well-rounded artist. Her influence extends beyond gender barriers, as she encourages young artists to embrace diverse roles in their creative journey.
Reflecting on her recognition as one of the “greatest guitarists” by Rolling Stone, Howard downplays her role as a guitar player. She identifies herself more as a composer, emphasizing the significance of piecing together various elements to create a musical environment.
Lessons from Legends: Embracing a Multifaceted Approach
In her artistic evolution, Howard looks up to icons like Prince, learning from his ability to convey a wealth of information within a song. She values the impact of creating an emotional environment rather than focusing solely on musicality. Howard’s experimentation with sound and her commitment to continuous learning from diverse influences define her musical journey.
A Journey Unconcerned with Accolades
As Brittany Howard continues to experiment with her sound, she remains unswayed by accolades. Her focus lies on the evolving and multifaceted nature of her art, drawing inspiration from various genres and artists to create a unique musical experience for her audience.
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