Alabama Shakes have officially reunited after a seven-year hiatus, with frontwoman Brittany Howard revealing the band's emotional return and their plans to fight against the political climate. The blues-soul-rock band, known for their Grammy-winning album Sound & Color, performed their first show in over seven years in December 2024 at the Bama Theatre in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
The Unexpected Reunion
Howard explained that the reunion began when a friend who owned a struggling brewery in Tuscaloosa asked for a fundraiser. She initially agreed to perform solo, but then felt the band owed him a collective gesture. “I called the fellas,” she said. “Do y’all wanna perform at this thing – like, all of us, together? And they instantly said yes.”
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The band rehearsed songs they hadn't played in years, and the show was a surprise to the 1,000-capacity crowd. Guitarist Heath Fogg described it as an “out-of-body experience” and a “feeling of euphoria in the purest form.”
Fleeing Fame and Fighting Trump
Howard admitted that the band had been “in danger of running it into the ground” before their hiatus. The pressures of fame, touring, and creative exhaustion led them to step back. Now, with a renewed perspective, Howard is also using the band's platform to speak out against Donald Trump and the current political landscape. “We have to fight,” she said. “Music is a powerful tool for change.”
What’s Next for Alabama Shakes?
Following the successful reunion show, the band is planning to rehearse more and write new material. Fans are eagerly awaiting a full tour and possibly new music. Below is a comparison of their two most famous albums:
| Album | Release Year | Chart Position (US) | Grammy Awards |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boys & Girls | 2012 | Top 10 | 0 |
| Sound & Color | 2015 | No. 1 | 4 |
Key Takeaways from the Reunion
- The band reunited after 7 years for a surprise show in Tuscaloosa.
- Brittany Howard is using the reunion to speak out against Trump.
- New music and a tour are expected in 2025.
- The band's hiatus was due to creative exhaustion and the pressures of fame.
FAQ
Why did Alabama Shakes go on hiatus?
The band went on hiatus in 2017 due to physical and creative exhaustion from touring and the pressures of fame. Brittany Howard said they were “in danger of running it into the ground.”
When did Alabama Shakes reunite?
They reunited for a surprise show on December 18, 2024, at the Bama Theatre in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.
Will Alabama Shakes tour in 2025?
Yes, the band is planning to rehearse more and write new music, with a full tour expected in 2025.