Jason Isbell

Jason Isbell

Jason Isbell is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist associated with alternative country, classic country, country, country rock, rock and Southern rock. He is from Green Hill, United States, and is also identified with Muscle Shoals, Alabama. His work sits mainly in alt-country, with rock and blues influences.

Career

Isbell joins the Drive-By Truckers in 2001 and later becomes one of the group’s key guitarists and songwriters. He plays in the band with bassist Shonna Tucker, who is his wife at the time. He leaves the Truckers in early 2007, around the time their divorce is finalised.

Alongside his work with the Drive-By Truckers, he records as Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. His debut solo album, Sirens from the Ditch, appears on New West Records in 2007. He tours with the 400 Unit in support of that release across the US and Canada later that year. He also releases a follow-up album with the group in 2009.

Style and reputation

Isbell is known both for songwriting and for his guitar playing. His songs and performances are commonly placed in the alt-country tradition, while also drawing on rock and blues.