The strange thing about the fabulously talented Allison Russell is that we all knew she was a fabulous talent – that goes without saying – through Po’ Girl and Birds of Chicago, as well as Our Native Daughters, bands that defined the modern sound of americana as well as anyone. And yet, it took the release of “Outside Child“, Russell’s first solo album, to really get her the wider attention that she was patiently and uncomplainingly waiting for. The background to that album and its promotion by Brandi Carlile is a well-known story now, but goes to explain why Russell is joined on stage at Americana Fest 2022 by Carlile, along with SistaStrings.
‘You’re Not Alone‘ was originally recorded for “Songs of Our Native Daughters“, but was later re-recorded with Brandi Carlile in 2022. ‘You’re Not Alone‘ is a song that’s full of the joyful optimism that Allison Russell conveys with an aching honesty, and whilst ostensibly a song to her daughter about her place in an historical community also expands to pull the listener in to assure them that, should they wish to embrace love, positivity and progressive attitude then they too are welcome to be part of that community and offers the consoling thought that whilst things may be hard there is a way through: “Wish that I could keep you from / Sorrow and harm / None of us is here for long / But you’re not alone.”
Allison was the winner of best album at the Americana Fest in 2022, and was similarly lauded at the Americana Music Association UK Awards in 2022, 2023 and 2024, winning International Song of the Year for ‘You’re Not Alone‘ in 2023.
