Two Eras Meet

Alabama Shakes head to Tanglewood for a special show at the Koussevitzky Music Shed with extra special guest Mavis Staples! Staples is a bonafide legend in Americana and soul music, while roots rock heroes Alabama Shakes arguably helped to set the benchmark for the modern resurgence of the genres in the global mainstream. Both acts are worth every bit of the critical acclaim and multiple Grammy Awards that have come their way - don't miss them sharing the same bill.

Alabama ShaKES

Formed in 2009, Alabama Shakes' ascension from neighborhood band to nationwide stars was a rapid one, with lead singer Brittany Howard's unmistakable raw vocals (much compared to Janis Joplin) garnering much of the attention. Their debut album Boys & Girls was released in 2012, spearheaded by their signature track 'Hold On' as lead single, and shot up the Billboard charts. Sound & Color further cemented the band's status as modern rock greats, boasting the stomping singles 'Don't Wanna Fight' and 'Gimme Your Love' and earning them three Grammy awards. Howard released her debut solo album in 2019, earning herself a Grammy of her own for the single 'Stay High', and the Shakes' new album I Must Be Dreaming is sure to continue their status as modern icons. 

Mavis Staples

The divine Mavis Staples, with her incredible voice and back catalogue of gospel, soul, R&B and rock, has been making music since the 1960s when she and her family formed the group The Staples Singers. They became synonymous with the Civil Rights Movement of the era, offering spiritually strong messages through their songs. After going solo, Mavis released her first record with Stax in 1969, but it wasn't until the early 1990's that her full power was realised by the world at large. Several popular albums followed, including a spell under the direction of Prince and his Paisley Park label. Now in her 80s and a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Mavis has shown no signs of slowing down, collaborating in recent years with the likes of Run The Jewels, Gorillaz and Hozier, as well as a song with Arcade Fire with all proceeds going to the American Civil Liberties Union.