Born This Way The Tenth Anniversary
2021
The Highwomen
17.5K Listeners
Artist Bio
Introduction & Current Status
Country music got a serious upgrade when The Highwomen rode into town. This isn't your grandpa's country supergroup. Comprising Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby, Maren Morris, and Amanda Shires, these women are rewriting the rules of Nashville, one killer harmony at a time. They're not just singing about heartbreak and pickup trucks; they're tackling complex themes with wit, grit, and a whole lot of talent.
Their self-titled debut album made waves, proving that there's a huge appetite for authentic female voices in a genre that's sometimes felt a little…stuck. The Highwomen aren't just a flash in the pan; they represent a shift towards inclusivity and fearless songwriting. They're showing everyone that country music can be both traditional and totally badass.
With individual careers that are already crushing it, The Highwomen are a force to be reckoned with collectively. They're proving that collaboration can be a total game-changer, creating music that's both timeless and incredibly relevant right now. Basically, they're the main characters we didn't know country music needed.
Early Life & Background
Each member of The Highwomen brings a unique backstory to the table, shaping their sound and perspective. Brandi Carlile, known for her powerhouse vocals and Americana roots, grew up in rural Washington, honing her craft in local bars and developing a deeply personal songwriting style. Her early experiences instilled in her a raw authenticity that resonates with fans worldwide.
Natalie Hemby, a Nashville native, comes from a family steeped in music. She's a seasoned songwriter, having penned hits for Miranda Lambert and Little Big Town before stepping into the spotlight herself. Her keen understanding of country music's DNA adds a layer of depth to The Highwomen's sound.
Maren Morris, a Texas-born singer-songwriter, burst onto the scene with her genre-bending sound and undeniable charisma. Her pop sensibilities and soulful voice bring a fresh perspective to the group. She's proof that country music can be both catchy and meaningful.
Amanda Shires, a classically trained violinist and singer-songwriter, adds a touch of indie cool to the mix. Her quirky lyrics and distinctive vocals bring a unique edge to The Highwomen's sound. She keeps things interesting, to say the least.
Career Beginnings
The formation of The Highwomen wasn't just a random jam session; it was a deliberate effort to amplify female voices in country music. Amanda Shires, frustrated by the lack of representation on country radio, spearheaded the project. She envisioned a group of women who could support each other and create music that challenged the status quo.
Shires initially recruited Brandi Carlile, and the two began brainstorming other artists who shared their vision. Natalie Hemby and Maren Morris quickly joined the ranks, solidifying the lineup. The name "The Highwomen" pays homage to The Highwaymen, the legendary country supergroup featuring Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, and Waylon Jennings.
The Highwomen's debut performance at the 2019 Newport Folk Festival was a total mic drop moment. They instantly captivated audiences with their harmonies, songwriting, and undeniable chemistry. It was clear from the start that this wasn't just a side project; it was a movement. The buzz was real.
Major Albums & Discography
The Highwomen's debut album, The Highwomen, dropped in 2019 and immediately shook up the country music landscape. Produced by Dave Cobb, the album features a mix of original songs and reimagined classics, all with a strong female perspective. Critics praised the album's songwriting, harmonies, and overall message of empowerment.
The album tackles themes of motherhood, immigration, and social justice with honesty and vulnerability. Tracks like Highwomen, a powerful retelling of the Highwaymen's original song, and Redesigning Women, an anthem for working mothers, resonated deeply with listeners. It's an album that makes you think, feel, and maybe even dance a little.
The Highwomen's sound is rooted in traditional country but with a modern twist. Their harmonies are tight, their songwriting is sharp, and their overall vibe is effortlessly cool. They're not afraid to experiment with different sounds and styles, creating a sonic tapestry that's both familiar and fresh. It's a vibe.
While The Highwomen remains their sole studio album to date, its impact continues to be felt. The group has hinted at future projects, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next move. Whatever they do next, it's sure to be groundbreaking.
Hit Songs & Signature Tracks
The Highwomen wasted no time dropping bangers. Highwomen, their namesake track, became an instant anthem, telling the stories of women throughout history who faced adversity with courage and resilience. The song's powerful message and soaring harmonies struck a chord with listeners, solidifying The Highwomen's place in country music history. It was history in the making.
Redesigning Women is another standout track, celebrating the strength and resilience of working mothers. The song's upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics made it a radio hit, while its message resonated with women juggling careers and families. It's a total jam.
Crowded Table is a beautiful ode to inclusivity and acceptance. The song's gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics promote the importance of creating a welcoming space for everyone. It's a reminder that everyone deserves a seat at the table.
Other notable tracks include Loose Change, a soulful ballad about lost love, and My Name Can't Be Mama, a poignant reflection on motherhood. Even tracks like If She Ever Leaves Me, Old Soul, Don't Call Me, My Only Child and Heaven Is a Honky Tonk cemented their place in the country music hall of fame. Each song showcases The Highwomen's ability to blend meaningful lyrics with captivating melodies.
Collaborations & Features
The Highwomen aren't just about their own music; they're also about supporting other artists and collaborating with like-minded musicians. They've shared the stage with numerous artists, including Sheryl Crow, Jason Isbell, and Dolly Parton, creating unforgettable moments for fans.
Each member of The Highwomen has also collaborated extensively with other artists outside of the group. Brandi Carlile has worked with everyone from Elton John to Tanya Tucker, while Maren Morris has teamed up with Zedd and Niall Horan. These collaborations demonstrate their versatility and willingness to push boundaries.
The Highwomen's collaborative spirit extends beyond the stage. They've also used their platform to advocate for female artists and promote inclusivity in the music industry. They're not just making music; they're making a difference.
Awards & Achievements
The Highwomen's impact on country music has been recognized with numerous awards and accolades. Their debut album, The Highwomen, won the Grammy Award for Best Country Album in 2020, solidifying their status as a force to be reckoned with.
Crowded Table also won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song. The group has also received nominations from the Academy of Country Music Awards and the Country Music Association Awards, further cementing their place in the genre.
Beyond awards, The Highwomen have achieved significant milestones, including chart-topping albums and sold-out tours. They've also used their platform to raise awareness for important social issues, such as gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. Basically, they're winning at life.
Personal Life
While The Highwomen are known for their music, they're also individuals with lives outside of the spotlight. Brandi Carlile is a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights and a dedicated mother. Maren Morris is an outspoken advocate for gun control and racial justice. Amanda Shires is known for her quirky sense of humor and her love of animals. Natalie Hemby is a devoted wife and mother who balances her career with family life.
Each member of The Highwomen brings their unique personality and values to the group, creating a dynamic that resonates with fans. They're not just performers; they're real people with real passions.
Musical Style & Influence
The Highwomen's musical style is a blend of traditional country, Americana, and pop sensibilities. Their sound is characterized by tight harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and a willingness to experiment with different genres. They draw inspiration from a wide range of artists, including The Highwaymen, Joni Mitchell, and Dolly Parton.
The Highwomen have influenced a new generation of female artists in country music. They've shown that it's possible to be both authentic and commercially successful, paving the way for more women to break down barriers and challenge the status quo. They're inspiring a whole new wave of talent.
Their legacy extends beyond music. The Highwomen are role models for anyone who wants to use their voice to make a difference. They're proving that art can be a powerful tool for social change. They're not just singing songs; they're starting conversations.
Recent Work & What's Next
While The Highwomen haven't released a new album since their debut, they remain active as a group and as individual artists. They've hinted at future collaborations and projects, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their next move. The group continues to perform live, bringing their signature sound and energy to audiences around the world.
Each member of The Highwomen is also focused on their solo careers. Brandi Carlile continues to release critically acclaimed albums and tour extensively. Maren Morris is working on new music and exploring different genres. Amanda Shires is pursuing her solo career and collaborating with other artists. Natalie Hemby is writing songs for other artists and developing her own projects. Whatever they do next, it's sure to be exciting.
Popular Albums
Popular Songs
| Track Number | Song | Release Date | Album |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 |  Highwomen | Aug 13, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 02 | Crowded Table | Jul 26, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 03 | If She Ever Leaves Me | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 04 | Redesigning Women | Jul 19, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 05 | My Only Child | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 06 | Old Soul | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 07 | My Name Can’t Be Mama | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 08 | Loose Change | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 09 | Wheels of Laredo | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 10 | Cocktail and a Song | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 11 | Don’t Call Me | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 12 | Heaven Is a Honky Tonk | Sep 6, 2019 | The Highwomen |
| 13 |  The Chain | Aug 2, 2019 | The Kitchen (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) |
| 14 | Highway Unicorn (Road To Love) | Jun 25, 2021 | Born This Way The Tenth Anniversary |
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