Broken Horses

Author: Brandi Carlile
Length: 336 pages
Publication Date: First published April 6, 2021

Book Summary: Broken Horses

Brandi Carlile: A Journey Through Music and Self-Discovery
Renowned singer-songwriter, producer, and six-time Grammy Award recipient, Brandi Carlile, invites audiences into the deeply personal narrative of her life, intricately woven with the threads of music. Born into a musically talented yet financially struggling family on the outskirts of Seattle, Brandi experienced a tumultuous upbringing, characterized by frequent relocations—14 moves in just 14 years. This dysfunctional childhood was a paradox of beauty and strangeness, offering both nurturing moments and significant challenges. At the tender age of five, she faced a life-threatening battle with bacterial meningitis, an experience that left a profound impact on her early years and shaped her transition into adulthood.
As a teenager who identifies as openly gay, Brandi encountered a complex struggle between her sexual identity and religious beliefs, particularly when her pastor denied her baptism on the day of the ceremony. Remarkably, her community rallied in her support, guiding her towards a sense of belonging found in the world of music—a sanctuary for the misfits and outcasts.
In her memoir, Broken Horses, Brandi takes readers on a journey through pivotal moments that have influenced her raw artistic expression. From her debut at a local singing competition, where she dazzled in a white polyester suit while performing Elton John’s “Honky Cat,” to her breakout opportunity as an opening act for the Dave Matthews Band, Brandi chronicles her relentless pursuit of success. Over 15 years and six studio albums, she balanced her musical career with family life alongside her wife, Catherine Shepherd, raising two children. This dedication led to collaborations with iconic artists such as Elton John, Dolly Parton, Mavis Staples, Pearl Jam, Tanya Tucker, and Joni Mitchell, as well as her involvement in the supergroup The Highwomen. Her journey culminated in unforgettable performances on the prestigious Grammy stage, where she captivated millions.
Evocative and unflinchingly honest, Broken Horses serves as both a profound exploration of faith—seen through the lens of someone marginalized by religious institutions—and a meditation on the experiences and lyrics that have defined Brandi’s life as a creative force, a remarkable artist, and a compassionate individual committed to making a difference.

Download in PDF or Audible Format: Broken Horses

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