TakeRoot presents: Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

Jason Isbell, born February 1, 1979 in Green Hill, Alabama, is an American singer-songwriter with a rich musical history. His musical journey began in the southern rock band Drive-By Truckers, which he was part of as the third guitarist between 2001 and 2007. Growing up in Green Hill, Isbell developed his musical skills at a young age, inspired through gospel and later blues. His grandfather, a Pentecostal pastor, introduced him to the blues of Robert Johnson. At the age of 14, he performed in garage bands and the famed Grand Ole Opry with friend Chris Tomkins. In 2001, Isbell joined Drive-By Truckers, where he played on three studio albums and several contributed compositions. His time with the band ended in 2007. From then on, he embarked on his solo career, releasing his first solo album Sirens of the Ditch. His regular backing band, The 400 Unit, was introduced, and together they produced several successful albums. The albums, including Southeastern, Something More Than Free, The Nashville Sound and Reunions, have all been successful and climbed the charts, reaching top positions on the Billboard 200 and several genre charts.

Recently Isbell released the album Weathervanes, which is described as a collection of mature songs about love, change, nostalgia, cruelty and redemption. The album was shaped by the isolation caused by the pandemic and by his experience as an actor in Martin Scorsese's 'Killers of the Flower Moon'.

Isbell's personal life had its ups and downs, but with the support of people like Amanda Shires, Ryan Adams, and his manager Traci Thomas, he returned in 2012 in a 'sober' manner. After his divorce from Shonna Tucker, Isbell married violinist Amanda Shires, who has played on his albums since 2013. With his signature storytelling power and backed by the powerful sounds of The 400 Unit, Jason Isbell remains an influential figure in the Americana music scene.