How Jason Isbell built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.
Jason Isbell is an acclaimed American singer-songwriter. He gained initial recognition as a member of the Drive-By Truckers from 2001 to 2007. He's achieved significant success with his solo career and through collaborations with his band, The 400 Unit. Known for his introspective lyrics and blend of rock, country, and folk influences, Isbell has garnered critical acclaim and commercial success, winning six Grammy Awards. His work often explores themes of addiction, recovery, relationships, and Southern identity.
In 2001, Jason Isbell joined the band Drive-By Truckers, marking the beginning of his six-year tenure with the group.
In 2003, Jason Isbell recorded and contributed songs to the Drive-By Truckers' album Decoration Day.
In 2004, Jason Isbell recorded and contributed songs to the Drive-By Truckers' album The Dirty South.
In 2006, Jason Isbell recorded and contributed songs to the Drive-By Truckers' album A Blessing and a Curse.
On April 5, 2007, Jason Isbell announced that he was no longer a member of the Drive-By Truckers.
On July 10, 2007, Jason Isbell released his first solo album, "Sirens of the Ditch".
In 2007, Jason Isbell left the Drive-By Truckers after being with the band for six years to pursue his solo career.
On February 17, 2009, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit's eponymous album was released on Lightning Rod Records, marking Isbell's second solo release and first with The 400 Unit.
On April 12, 2011, Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit released their self-recorded and produced second album, Here We Rest, on Lightning Rod Records.
In 2012, Jason Isbell discussed the importance of his northern Alabama roots and their influence on his music.
In 2012, Jason Isbell supported singer-songwriter Ryan Adams on his tour, with both artists playing solo acoustic sets.
On June 11, 2013, Jason Isbell released his fourth solo album, Southeastern, which received overwhelmingly positive critical reviews.
On July 17, 2015, Jason Isbell released his fifth solo record, Something More Than Free, on Southeastern Records.
During the 2015 Newport Folk Festival, Jason Isbell cited Bob Dylan as a huge influence on his writing.
In 2016, Jason Isbell had his first acting role as pastor Kyle Nubbins in the animated TV series Squidbillies.
In October 2017, Jason Isbell was announced as the official artist-in-residence at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.
In 2018, Jason Isbell made a guest appearance on John Prine's album The Tree of Forgiveness and contributed the ballad "Maybe It's Time" to the soundtrack of the film A Star Is Born.
In 2019, Jason Isbell made a cameo appearance as a guitar-playing wedding guest in the HBO film Deadwood: The Movie.
On November 5, 2020, Jason Isbell announced his intention to record a charity album of Georgia artists' covers if Joe Biden won the state in the 2020 United States presidential election.
On April 6, 2021, it was announced that Jason Isbell was cast in Martin Scorsese's film Killers of the Flower Moon.
On September 14, 2021, Jason Isbell formally announced his album, "Georgia Blue", with a digital release date of October 15 and CD/vinyl release on November 26.
In September 2021, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit covered Metallica's "Sad but True" for the charity tribute album The Metallica Blacklist.
In 2021, Jason Isbell was featured in an episode of Billions, playing himself viewing an art exhibit.
In 2023, Jason Isbell appeared as Bill Smith in Martin Scorsese's film Killers of the Flower Moon.