Brandi Carlile's Introspective Journey: From Collaborator to Solo Artist

In October 2025, acclaimed singer-songwriter Brandi Carlile is set to release her latest album, 'Returning to Myself', a deeply introspective work that explores themes of isolation and self-discovery. The album comes on the heels of Carlile's involvement in Joni Mitchell's final live performance at the Hollywood Bowl last year, where she was surrounded by a community of collaborators.

However, the aftermath of that event left Carlile feeling exhausted and unsure of her own identity. She found herself alone in a studio in upstate New York, working with producer Aaron Dessner, and was forced to confront her own sense of self. Carlile collaborated with Dessner and another producer, Andrew Watt, to create an album that delves into her relationships, mortality, and the search for inner peace.

The album features contributions from artists like Justin Vernon of Bon Iver, and showcases Carlile's powerful yet introspective vocal performances. Tracks like "Human" and "Church and State" tackle the complexities of living in a turbulent world, while more personal songs like "Anniversary" explore the nuances of long-term relationships. Ultimately, 'Returning to Myself' is a testament to Carlile's growth as an artist and her willingness to confront her own demons in the pursuit of self-discovery.