Brandi Carlile’s Wareham and Other Massachusetts Connection

Chances are you've heard of Brandi Carlile, even if you are unfamiliar with her music.

On Sunday, July 24, 2022,  legendary 78-year-old folk/pop singer/songwriter Joni Mitchell was a surprise performer at the Newport Folk Festival in Newport, Rhode Island.

The appearance, which went viral on the internet, was Mitchell's first at Newport since 1969 and her first public performance since suffering a brain aneurysm in 2015. It was also Mitchell's first full-length live set since 2000.

Carlile coordinated the appearance and lovingly guided Mitchell through the performance, offering backup and support where necessary.

Grammy-winning singer/songwriter Brandi Marie Carlile was born June 1, 1981 in Ravensdale, Washington. Carlile's performance style includes Americana, folk rock and alternative country rock.

She began performing in clubs in Seattle and signed a record deal with Columbia Records in 2004.

In June 2012, Carlile announced her engagement to Catherine Shepherd. Carlile and Shepherd were married on September 15, 2012, in Wareham, Massachusetts. Details of the wedding are scant. An email to Carlile's publicity people seeking information went unanswered.

Shepherd is the executive director of the Looking Out Foundation, Carlisle's nonprofit.

That's not the couple's only tie to Massachusetts.

Carlile was the featured performer for Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey's inauguration at TD Garden in Boston on January 5, 2023.

Healey told the Boston Herald having Carlile perform was special.

"I've been a fan of Brandi's music for a long time," Healey said. "I can't think of a more perfect musician to bring us together for this celebration."

Healey told the paper Carlile's music "spans genres and explores themes of women's empowerment, LGBTQ+ history, and the joy of community."