The Interview Brandi Carlile, singer-songwriter: I believe in the separation of church and state
Nov 14, 2025
Brandi Carlile, a Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and LGBTQ+ icon, dives into her music and activism. She expresses deep concerns about the separation of church and state and the threats to same-sex marriage. Carlile recalls the healing power of country music in her relationship with her mother amid childhood struggles. She reveals her unconventional recording process, channeling raw emotions into her new album, while also reflecting on the healing of past wounds. Anger and vulnerability shape her work, making it as personal as ever.
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Separation Of Church And State As Driving Theme
- Brandi Carlile fears theocracy creeping into democracy and the rollback of LGBTQ rights.
- She channels that fear into music as a way to process and warn against threats to separation of church and state.
Grammy Moment Opened Flood Of Opportunity
- Brandi recounts rapid change in her career after a breakthrough Grammys performance.
- Overnight opportunities flowed and she said yes to almost everything to use that momentum.
Stagecraft Made The Grammy Moment Land
- Brandi felt the room shift during her Grammy performance and knew she could deliver because she'd learned to read audiences.
- She credits years on the road and craft with letting her own moment land fully on stage.
