Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Jason Isbell

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.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

2001: Joined Drive-By Truckers

In 2001, Jason Isbell joined the band Drive-By Truckers, marking the beginning of his six-year tenure with the group.

2003: Release of Decoration Day

In 2003, Jason Isbell recorded and contributed songs to the Drive-By Truckers' album Decoration Day.

2004: Release of The Dirty South

In 2004, Jason Isbell recorded and contributed songs to the Drive-By Truckers' album The Dirty South.

2006: Release of A Blessing and a Curse

In 2006, Jason Isbell recorded and contributed songs to the Drive-By Truckers' album A Blessing and a Curse.

April 5, 2007: Isbell's Departure Announcement

On April 5, 2007, Jason Isbell announced that he was no longer a member of the Drive-By Truckers.

July 10, 2007: Release of "Sirens of the Ditch"

On July 10, 2007, Jason Isbell released his first solo album, "Sirens of the Ditch".

2007: Departure from Drive-By Truckers

In 2007, Jason Isbell left the Drive-By Truckers after being with the band for six years to pursue his solo career.

February 17, 2009: Release of "Jason Isbell and The 400 Unit"

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.

April 12, 2011: Release of "Here We Rest"

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.

2012: Importance of Northern Alabama Roots

In 2012, Jason Isbell discussed the importance of his northern Alabama roots and their influence on his music.

2012: Tour with Ryan Adams

In 2012, Jason Isbell supported singer-songwriter Ryan Adams on his tour, with both artists playing solo acoustic sets.

June 11, 2013: Release of "Southeastern"

On June 11, 2013, Jason Isbell released his fourth solo album, Southeastern, which received overwhelmingly positive critical reviews.

July 17, 2015: Release of "Something More Than Free"

On July 17, 2015, Jason Isbell released his fifth solo record, Something More Than Free, on Southeastern Records.

2015: Dylan as a Huge Influence

During the 2015 Newport Folk Festival, Jason Isbell cited Bob Dylan as a huge influence on his writing.

2016: Guest Role in Squidbillies

In 2016, Jason Isbell had his first acting role as pastor Kyle Nubbins in the animated TV series Squidbillies.

October 2017: Artist-in-Residence at Country Music Hall of Fame

In October 2017, Jason Isbell was announced as the official artist-in-residence at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.

2018: Contributions to Prine's Album and "A Star Is Born" Soundtrack

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.

2019: Cameo in Deadwood: The Movie

In 2019, Jason Isbell made a cameo appearance as a guitar-playing wedding guest in the HBO film Deadwood: The Movie.

November 5, 2020: Pledge to Record Georgia Covers Album

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.

April 6, 2021: Casting Announcement for "Killers of the Flower Moon"

On April 6, 2021, it was announced that Jason Isbell was cast in Martin Scorsese's film Killers of the Flower Moon.

September 14, 2021: Formal Announcement of "Georgia Blue"

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.