VITALITY IN AMERICANA / REMEMBERING NIKKI GIOVANNI, HOLIDAY GIFTS

Adding Fresh Vitality to the American Songbook

We are thrilled to welcome so many singer-songwriters at the forefront of today’s Americana music scene. These artists are not just bound together by their frank, forthcoming lyrics and roots music style, but for their recognition on many “Best of the Year” lists for their new albums. While the debut release of their collaboration is still to come, we suspect Julien Baker & Torres will be topping the best-of lists at the ends of next year.

Waxahatchee

While her sound has evolved from lo-fi folk to lush alt-tinged country, her voice has always remained the same. Honest and close, poetic with Southern lilting.

Cassandra Jenkins

She writes with an impressionistic intimacy, making astutue observations that dovetail neatly with her blend of folk and lush ambient pop. 

Jessica Pratt

She has a gentle, understated style that calls on the spirits of ’70s folk introverts, finding a haunted elegance in her subtle yet sublime songs of acoustic guitar and layered, reverb-heavy vocals.

Julien Baker & Torres

Together, they weave a sound that’s intimate yet rugged, blending indie and Americana into a powerful, poignant tapestry.

Remembering Nikki Giovanni

“We write because we believe the human spirit cannot be tamed and should not be trained.”

Earlier this week we lost Knoxville native and celebrated poet Nikki Giovanni.

A prolific writer and leader in the Black Arts Movement, Giovanni’s work includes more than two dozen poetry collections, not to mention works included in other collections. Alongside her writing, she was a professor at Virginia Tech for 35 years, a mentor, and a cultural figure who inspired generations of readers and writers around the globe.

We will forever be grateful for the unconditional time she gave us during her appearance at Big Ears 2022. It was a moving and inspirational occasion – and also a joyful one, filled with laughter. 

Read: “Remembering the Fierce and Lyrical Voice of Nikki Giovanni”

Holiday Gift Ideas

Still searching for the perfect gift for the music lover in your life? Maybe it’s time to treat yourself? From cozy tees, hoodies, and jackets to hats, posters, and stocking stuffers, there’s something for every Big Ears fan.

Now through January 1, enjoy 30% off your order when you use the code LISTEN at checkout. Order by Friday, December 20 and select 2-day shipping to ensure your items arrive in time for Christmas.

Don’t miss your chance to snag last-minute gifts that hit all the right notes! Purchase Today!