Alabama Shakes

American rock-soul band, Alabama Shakes released their first album, Boys & Girls last year on April 9th via Jack White's Thirdman Records. Their hit song from this album, "Hold On" was named the best song of 2012 by Rolling Stone. It is a fabulously laid back track that immediately showcases the strength, depth and sheer quality in lead singer, Brittany Howard's voice. It also is the perfect introduction to the bands blend of Delta Blues, and subdued Southern rock which is then shot through with gospel. More recently, "Hold On," has been included on a compilation album, "2013 Grammy Nominees".

Formed in 2009 in Athens, Alabama, the group consists of lead singer Brittany Howard, guitarist Heath Fogg, bassist Zac Cockrell, and drummer Steve Johnson. Alabama Shakes released a four-song EP Alabama Shakes in September 2011, gained media attention and earned them an invitation to play at CMJ. This show caught the attention of Jon Pareles of The New York Times, who praised Howard's singing (comparing her to Janis Joplin) and the band's energy and musicianship. In late 2011 the band's song "You Ain't Alone" was used in a Zales jewelry ad and Alabama Shakes made MTV's list of 11 Artists To Watch In 2012. It took less than a year for the band to move from playing small gigs in their home town to larger venues such as the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee and the Troubadour and Music Box Theater in Los Angeles.

Alabama Shakes received three nominations for the 2013 Grammy Awards: one for best new artist; one for best rock performance, for "Hold On"; and one for best recording package with their album.

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