Childhood and Education Journey of Brandi Carlile in Timeline

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Brandi Carlile. A timeline of key moments.

Brandi Carlile is a celebrated American singer-songwriter and producer known for her genre-spanning music, encompassing folk rock, alternative country, Americana, and classic rock influences. Her critically acclaimed work has earned her eleven Grammy Awards, two Emmy Awards, and an Academy Award nomination, solidifying her place as a prominent figure in contemporary music.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1969: Joni Mitchell's Appearance at Newport Folk Festival

In 1969, Joni Mitchell performed at the Newport Folk Festival. This marked her first appearance at the festival until 2022 when she would appear again with Brandi Carlile.

June 1, 1981: Brandi Carlile's Birth

On June 1, 1981, Brandi Marie Carlile was born. She is an American singer-songwriter and producer known for her work across folk rock, alternative country, Americana, and classic rock genres.

Others born on this day/year

November 2002: Carlile Comes Out as Lesbian

In November 2002, Brandi Carlile publicly came out as a lesbian, stating in an interview, "I don't have to have a lot of formality around it ... there were people before me who paved the way."

2008: Establishment of the Looking Out Foundation

In 2008, Brandi Carlile, along with Tim and Phil Hanseroth, established the Looking Out Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization to support causes they believe in.

2009: Meeting Catherine Shepherd

In 2009, Brandi Carlile met Catherine Shepherd, who would later become her wife.

June 2012: Engagement Announcement to Catherine Shepherd

In June 2012, Brandi Carlile announced her engagement to Catherine Shepherd, marking a significant step in their relationship.

September 15, 2012: Marriage to Catherine Shepherd

On September 15, 2012, Brandi Carlile married Catherine Shepherd in Wareham, Massachusetts, solidifying their commitment.

2012: Catherine Shepherd Becomes Executive Director of Looking Out Foundation

In 2012, Catherine, Brandi Carlile's wife, became the Executive Director of the Looking Out Foundation.

July 2018: Announcement of "Girls Just Wanna Weekend" Music Festival

In July 2018, Brandi Carlile announced the creation of her own music festival, "Girls Just Wanna Weekend", which was inspired by her participation in the Cayamo Cruise festival.

February 3, 2019: "Girls Just Wanna Weekend" Music Festival

On February 3, 2019, the "Girls Just Wanna Weekend" music festival, created by Brandi Carlile, concluded in Puerto Aventuras on the Riviera Maya in Mexico, featuring all-female musicians.

April 2021: Release of Autobiography "Broken Horses: A Memoir"

In April 2021, Brandi Carlile released her autobiography, "Broken Horses: A Memoir", detailing her life and experiences.

Broken Horses: A Memoir

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2022: Performance with Joni Mitchell at Newport Folk Festival

In 2022, Brandi Carlile and her associates performed with Joni Mitchell as the closing act of the Newport Folk Festival, marking Mitchell's first full-length performance since the early 2000s and her first appearance at the festival since 1969.

January 2023: Headlining Inauguration Party for Maura Healey

In January 2023, Brandi Carlile headlined the inauguration party for Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey, who is the first lesbian governor in the United States.

February 2023: Looking Out Foundation's Earthquake Relief Efforts

In February 2023, Brandi Carlile's Looking Out Foundation raised $300,000 in seven days for the 2023 Turkey-Syria earthquake relief effort, demonstrating a rapid response to a humanitarian crisis.

2023: Brandi and Catherine Honored by People

In 2023, Brandi Carlile and her wife Catherine were honored amongst People's 2023 Women Changing the World for their work with the Looking Out Foundation, recognizing their significant impact.

June 2025: Performances in Manchester, Glasgow and Glastonbury

In June 2025, Brandi Carlile performed at the Opera House in Manchester, The Royal Concert Hall in Glasgow, and later in the month, performed an afternoon set on The Pyramid Stage during Glastonbury Festival in Somerset.