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Brandi Carlile



Last Updated: 11/23/2009

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Status: Single
City: SEATTLE
State: WASHINGTON
Country: US
Signup Date: 5/20/2005

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Monday, August 11, 2008 
Hey all,

I'm writing you from a plane bound for Portugal. While we are gone you may have already heard our song "The Story" in an Olympic advertisement for GM. Depending on how you feel about music and advertising in general, you may be wondering why a band like us would do something like this. Well I have a few good reasons, so allow me to shine a little light on the subject.

When GM first approached our band to use "The Story" in their 2008 Olympic ad visions of SUVs and full-size pick-up trucks driving through a rugged mountain range were dancing through my head. I promptly and politely declined. (Although I don't want to be a hypocrite, our band did tour in a GM gas-guzzling van for many years) But, when they came back to us and offered to involve us in an ad campaign promoting hybrids, bio fuel, bio hybrids, hydrogen fuel cell cars and yes, even the infamous electric car the Chevy Volt, I felt the need to think twice about having the opportunity to be a part of a huge American car company creating an ad campaign for environmentally responsible cars. We feel they allowed more than a fair amount of input from us and made an honest effort to create an environmentally conscious ad. We are proud of it.

I also believe in American jobs. Keeping people employed in the US and building fuel-efficient/alternative cars could help reduce and one day help eliminate our dependency on foreign oil. To really make a positive impact regarding the climate crisis we all need to work together to make the change, even GM.

Regardless of what my feelings are about the agenda behind the sudden wave of corporate environmental awareness, its still awareness just the same.

Thanks for hearing us out. The twins and I are proud to say that every last penny from the GM ad is being donated and split between several environmental organizations exploring alternative energy and effecting change on a grass roots level…sweet!

Names and links to these organizations are soon to follow just as soon as the paperwork is done! J

And yes dad, we are still loud mouth tree huggers…sorry.

xobc
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Cheryl
Cheryl Adams

 
Good for you guys! its great to be ina position where you can give give, but make sure you guys take care of yourselves too! Cheryl
 
Posted by Cheryl on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 2:57 PM
[Reply to this
Lala
Luanne Austin

 
Thank you SO MUCH for sharing that Brandi. When I saw it last night I was terribly disappointed, like, geesh, what a sellout. But I can appreciate and support your motives.
So you're still a Number 1 hit in my house!
 
Posted by Lala on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 2:58 PM
[Reply to this
Aimee Celeste

 
Brandi,
Thank you very much for explaining this. As a huge fan of yours and someone who emotionally relates to that song, my first reaction to the song in the commercial was nervousness and dismay. I should have had more faith, because you present some great logical points and it's neat seeinig the thought process that went into it.


As someone who's worked for General Motors as well as a major tree-hugger, I agree with many of your philosophies! And how great to have a place where the artist can explain their choice to "sell out", which really wasn't so in this case.


In short... you're awesome.
;-)
~Aimee
Newark, DE
 
Posted by Aimee Celeste on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 2:58 PM
[Reply to this
Tiffany
Tiffany Nagem

 
That's wonderful! Good for you guys for making a difference in educating people on smart vehicles as well as helping enviromental organazations to educate people that's extremely important so well done! I moved to Ireland from the States at the beginning and it has really opened my eyes to their way of life verses ours. Every home here for the most part would recycle and if they forgot to take out the recycling that day the supermarket would have recycling binds where you could drop it off. You would not be handed plastic bags left and right when doing your shopping. You are encouraged to bring your own shopping bag and if you forget to bring it you are charged for each grocery bag you need which is a good reminder to bring your own shopping bag. solar energy is also really big here and most homes would be energy efficient. It blows my mind coming from such a warm state of Georgia that we would have to rely on electricity when we could instead be reliant on solar power. Living abroad has really educated me and changed my way of living and thinking.
It's great to know that your power of music can actually open the eyes to someone else!
 
Posted by Tiffany on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 2:59 PM
[Reply to this
State of Mind - New CD coming SOON

 
That would have been a tough decision. It's hard to trust big automakers given the current economic situation of the world, but your right, one step forward, is one step forward even if it is comes from the enemy. I'm sure we would have done the same. It's good to see that some of your work from "The Story" is getting the credit it deserves. Keep up the hard work, and I can't wait to hear the new material.


Gregg
 
Posted by State of Mind - New CD coming SOON on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:03 PM
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Sparkly Jesus
Quail Hunter

 
I quite honestly found out about your band because of that commercial. I love that song to death, and I think that your efforts for environmentalism are plain AWESOME. Keep up the fantastic work and don't forget your ideals! (The fact that you felt the need to explain why your song was in a car commercial says it all to me about how conscientious and thoughtful you are as a band.
)
 
Posted by Sparkly Jesus on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:15 PM
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hide
Heidi Nedreberg

 
Nothing wrong with being a loud mouth tree hugger!
 
Posted by hide on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:26 PM
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Tom
Tom Licht

 
Congratulations! No need to explain, but thank you. Just saw the commercial and I thought it was very cool.

 
Posted by Tom on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:27 PM
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Tom
Tom Licht

 
Congratulations! No need to explain, but thank you. Just saw the commercial and I thought it was very cool.

 
Posted by Tom on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:27 PM
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~Melanie~
Melanie Nichols

 
Bravo!
 
Posted by ~Melanie~ on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:28 PM
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Jer

 
We, as a society can't expect miracles overnight, it's the little things that we (yes and big companies, however, slowly) can do everyday to impact the future of the world in order to improve it. Every little bit helps.
They ARE getting the message! And it IS the grass-roots level orgs that are helping clear the way so that people and big companies are listening! Cheers to you for declining the first offer and accepting something that you believe in! You are helping us all!
 
Posted by Jer on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:29 PM
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Janice

 
I just saw the commercial tonight! I was happy to hear the song! :)
 
Posted by Janice on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:29 PM
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Kiera
krista corbett

 
Weird I just heard/saw (heard first of course) the commercial in one of my patient's rooms. Gotta love you for it. Thanks for being conscientious about our earth.

Krista
BTW... loved your show in Maine last week
 
Posted by Kiera on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:39 PM
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Zoe
Tracy Perry

 
I saw the commercial tonight and I thought "How cool is that?" I love that song and its in an Olympic commercial!!
I love hearing your music anywhere..so Cheers to You and the Twins!

Zoe
 
Posted by Zoe on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:39 PM
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Jody

 
I think it is awesome that you guys are donating money from the ad although I don't think that anyone that has followed/admired you guys and your music for any length of time would ever doubt your sincerity or what you stand for.
It was a nice surprise to all of a sudden hear "The Story" out of nowhere during the opening ceremony commercials!
 
Posted by Jody on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:41 PM
[Reply to this
erin

 
saw the commercial before reading your post... at first, it caught me off guard... but then i thought to myself "you go girl"... i'm happy to hear "the story" anytime.

 
Posted by erin on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:42 PM
[Reply to this
Hellokitty44

 
And...thats why we love you!
 
Posted by Hellokitty44 on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:42 PM
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Mullinator

 
I saw the commercial last night while enjoying my sister’s birthday cake with my family, and I was pleasantly surprised to see the commercial include so many fuel efficient vehicles. Thank you for keeping in mind the importance of retaining GM jobs in america and choosing to allow GM to use your song. Being a native Clevelander, the loss of so many quality jobs, such as UAW jobs, has been devastating to this area. Thank you for being you, and bringing the world your music, and thank you for lending your voice to promote something which can impact the US positively.


Since you've got an 'in' with GM now, can you ask them to get a move on and ship some more hybrids out to Ohio? AND, ask them to design a car with built-in doggie seat belts??

Thanks :)
 
Posted by Mullinator on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:42 PM
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Dee

 
Hey Brandi,
I agree that even if the "awareness" is just band wagonning, at least it's a level of awareness that can lead somewhere. Nothing seems to change in this country unless it becomes "hip" so I'm glad it's become hip to be green. Whatever it takes to get there. I applaud your grit in holding out until they offer something you can be proud of, and kudos to you for donating the proceeds. You continue to be an example to us all.


Peace,
Dee
 
Posted by Dee on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 3:51 PM
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StephanieBG
Stephanie Gobler

 
When I heard "The Story" from another room, I ran in to see how it got on my TV...must say I was shocked to see a car commercial, until I sat down and watched it. Definitely a good choice...good music added to a good purpose, I'm all for it.

 
Posted by StephanieBG on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:09 PM
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Splashley

 
Thanks for clearing the air Brandi, I too was a little disapointed when I first saw the commercial. Infact the first thing I thought of was "well there goes the intimate venue shows, hello Giants stadium". I am glad to hear the reasons behind your decision to do the ad were for reasons that will help us all in the long run (not that I would expect less). I hope Portugal treats you well. And be sure to drink and bring home plenty of Port Wine.
In my opinion it is the best!!!
Cheers
Ashley
 
Posted by Splashley on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:10 PM
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Simply Me

 
Hi Brandi,

On a PR stand-point, you gave an awesome explanation of why you did what you did and how your giving back the profits will help benefit our environment. Thank you for that. I thought highly of you and your band prior to this and without disappointment still do.


God bless you all with safe journeys and thank you for being a great example to our next generation.


Sincerely,
Angie
 
Posted by Simply Me on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:12 PM
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Rachel

 
I was watching part of the olympics at a friends house last night and started freaking out when i saw the commercial. Not only is it a great product but it's also great exposure for the band!! I LOVE YOU GUYS. but on a side note. when i told my friend's mom that the music is by Brandi Carlile i think she thought i was talking about Belinda Carlile. it was quite funny.

 
Posted by Rachel on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:13 PM
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Whirlwind

 
Hail to all fellow loud mouth tree huggers! Keep on rockin'!
 
Posted by Whirlwind on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:15 PM
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RachelL

 
Congrats on deciding to play an active part in an environmentally sound message. "The Story" sounds exquisite in the commercial.

 
Posted by RachelL on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:20 PM
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***WILLIEBTHERE***
Willie B. Falck

 
Thanks Brandi,
Thanks for the insight, Although I'm a Ford fan, I appreciate the fact that you are standing up for alternative fuel sources! We have to lose our dependency on fossil fuels!!! We need people like you to make us aware of our waste of natural resources!! You are the Best!!!
Hugs and Love,
williebthere
 
Posted by ***WILLIEBTHERE*** on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:20 PM
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Mrs Gruener
Stacey Gruener

 
And this is just another reason why we love you and the twins :).


~ S T A C E Y
 
Posted by Mrs Gruener on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:21 PM
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Scarlett O
Scarlett Oh

 
Interesting that I signed onto myspace and this was one of the first blogs I noticed. I just happened to have the TV on in the room as I semi-watch the olympics while I am on the computer. Not even 5 minutes ago, the TV got my attention when I heard your song and turned to see the ad you are referring to.
It made me smile and I commented to my daughter that "I know that song! I love it!" :-)

Scarlett
 
Posted by Scarlett O on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:22 PM
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EternalJanuary™
Eternal January

 
Well kudos for you by taking your fame and promoting domestic enviro-friendly business. Understandably your music was not intentionally put out there to gain literal commercial success. The way GM edited "The Story" fit well into their campaign while still maintaining the integrity of the song. Besides, its good exposure for y'all and perhaps we can build the ever-growing 'Fandies' out there.


Safe travels.

 
Posted by EternalJanuary™ on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:22 PM
[Reply to this
Miriam

 
Love the ad and now, hearing your reasons for doing it, it seems even better. When we heard it start playing during a break in the Opening Ceremonies, my husband and I started freaking out. Holy CRAP!! It's Brandi's music on a national commercial and all these millions of people are going to hear it. Kick ass! Congrats! Thanks for being a force for change and environmental responsibility. Hope to see you soon in Austin, TX. We love and miss you guys.

 
Posted by Miriam on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:23 PM
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Britta
Britta Livgren

 
I'll love you no matter what you do, Brandi!! I am proud of you for donating the proceeds to such honorable organizations! Have a blast in Portugal!

Your Forever Fan-

Britta
 
Posted by Britta on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:27 PM
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Rachel

 
Wow, way to go guys! My first thought was "explaining a commercial... isn't it good money?"
Then I got the bit about where the money was going and was very proud.
:D
Yay for tree huggers and 'Merican cars.
Can't wait for the next album!
 
Posted by Rachel on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:42 PM
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the Spaghetti Harp

 
Girl you don't need to explain yourself to no one. You've given the world your heart already.


Be well and cheers
Michael
 
Posted by the Spaghetti Harp on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:42 PM
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hurricane

 
Rock on.

 
Posted by hurricane on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:44 PM
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Streaky

 
Good Call Guys.......!!
 
Posted by Streaky on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:55 PM
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Chari
Chari Hurley

 
I think it's fantastic. And way to go for donating the proceeds.

 
Posted by Chari on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:56 PM
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Patty/Peacemaker
Pat Barentine

 
I am so glad others will hear that song. I am happy that you are aware of the economic situation we all find ourselves in with all this political trauma! God Bless you Brandi, and I hope your trip is memorable. I lived in Spain years ago but never made it to Portugal. The wine should be great! Have fun.

 
Posted by Patty/Peacemaker on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 6:58 PM
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Rob

 
I admire the logical and sound decision you made and admire that you are donating the money to great causes. Not only does your voice and music touch my head, heart and soul but it also serves to inspire and make a difference in the lives of all of your listeners.


Rob
 
Posted by Rob on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:01 PM
[Reply to this
LibreLove
Patricia Guillen

 
Good for you all! I support you no matter what.
:)
 
Posted by LibreLove on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:01 PM
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Have A Heart Productions, Ralph

 
Hi Brandi,
I just watched the commerical yesterday and was surprised in a way yet also glad to see you get that kind of exposure, I am torn a bit between my love the outdoors and the earth and my hot-rod car loving side.

Thanks for being a important part in change for the better and looking out for more than just your own interests, It is inspirational to myself and I'm sure others and endears you & the band to me more.

All the best to you-Ralph
 
Posted by Have A Heart Productions, Ralph on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:03 PM
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Jenny

 
I really don't have a problem with merging music and advertisement. Some of my favorite memories from childhood have to do with music associated with commercials. So, I don't really understand the aversion for artists and their fans to keep musicians shackled to the notion that commercialism is bad. For me it is hypocrocy to say you WOULDN'T want that, yet most musicians want to make a living with their music. Why not use commercials as a tool to raise awareness of your songs. I remember reading, (not too long ago) Rupert Murdoch has wanted to not play new Bruce Springsteen music ( and other music from icons in the business such as Neil Young) on his stations because he doesn't see how his music is relevant to his core listeners. So, it would seem you have corporate monoliths trying to influence the play of even icons in music such as Springsteen, Neil Young and let's not forget the still boycotted Dixie Chicks on Country Music radio. If what I hear is true regarding this practice, it would seem this is a good way to retaliate with these types of station policies to spread awareness for your music. The upside to this is that you are spreading environmental consciousness as well as association with this consciousness with your music. I for one would like to buy American, but the reliability factor of American made cars still makes me retiscent. The only American made car I have ever bought was a Chevy Nova, when it was made with a toyota engine. To me, American made cars are made with inferior parts, and that is why I think they are less reliable. If GM can make a car where my alternator, water pump, ignition switch, or transmission doesn't go out with less than a 150,000 miles, I would gladly buy one. But right now, I am still skeptical.


Jen
 
Posted by Jenny on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:11 PM
[Reply to this
Sage

 
Nice! Thanks for posting this explanation.
I have to admit that I was a little disappointed when I saw the commercial last night, but no more!

(And, while I'm here: You make lovely music. You are one of my favorites.
)

:o)
 
Posted by Sage on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:11 PM
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My Name Is Sean Paul Curran.
Seán Curran

 
Right on Brandi & Twins. Thank you for letting us know whatsup. Hell I was just excited to hear you on a commercial . . . I was like "HEY THATS, THATS !!! OH MY GOD !!!".

 
Posted by My Name Is Sean Paul Curran. on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:11 PM
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Karen
karen dodge

 
The world's gonna need voices like yours to smarten us up so thanks for putting this out there. Saw you guys in Freeport and you were awesome. Can't wait to hear the rest of the new stuff and hopefully see you again in New England next summer. Have a great one.

 
Posted by Karen on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:19 PM
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Jeweli

 
you're awesome! love your music & love what you stand for! :-D
 
Posted by Jeweli on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:21 PM
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Hannah McLendon

 
Whew! You are one rockin' powerhouse of a woman!! And an inspiration to my SPIRIT!

And how hilarious you are... "yes dad, we are still loud mouth tree huggers...sorry"!!! haha

Sending love, peace, and respect to you.


Hannah McLendon
 
Posted by Hannah McLendon on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:22 PM
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Deborah
Deborah Lucas

 
Thanks for the inspiration.
Your delightful!!
 
Posted by Deborah on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:22 PM
[Reply to this
[SammyRockStar] Is Unbelievably Believable.
Samantha Hill

 
That's Amazing...



From One Tree Hugger To Another.
:)
 
Posted by [SammyRockStar] Is Unbelievably Believable. on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:22 PM
[Reply to this
Elizabeth Grant "The Quantum Coach"
Elizabeth Grant

 
Cool!

Hey - a fellow Cayamo traveler here!

You deserve all of the success you're experiencing ... and I think it's great you're sharing your talent with the world and getting paid well to do that (well, I hope you are, at least). What you do with the money you get from this source or that source is, well, really none of our business. ;) Kudos to you and the twins, though, for putting so much thought into what you do with your song commercially. Love it.


BG
 
Posted by Elizabeth Grant "The Quantum Coach" on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:29 PM
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Gina
Gina Robison

 
Every thing you do (at least everything I know about you publically), makes me like you more and more. First the voice (so I bought the album), then the lyrics (so I learned them all), then the look (when I saw you live), now the persona. Thanks and keep rockin.

 
Posted by Gina on Monday, August 11, 2008 - 7:29 PM
[Reply to this
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