Folks who’ve lived around the Northwest for a while know that Brandi Carlile’s been working hard to make sure her music is heard for a long time. Fifteen years ago, the Seattle singer-songwriter started out filling nightclubs in the region with her huge voice and charisma, if not filling the rooms with bodies. A decade ago, she graduated to playing theaters on the strength of her 2007 breakthrough album The Story, which showcased Carlile’s songwriting skills and that of her longtime collaborators Phil and Tim Hanseroth. And last year, Carlile released her best album yet, By The Way, I Forgive You, which earned her a Grammy for Best Americana Album, a nomination for Album of the Year, and headlining status at amphitheaters and festivals. Still, she makes those big shows feel like intimate club gigs, and that’s why Brandi Carlile is one of the most likable success stories in music these days.

by Ben Salmon