In the vast realm of cover songs, it’s a rare treat to witness a supergroup taking on the iconic tunes of another supergroup. This is precisely why you should not miss The Highwomen’s rendition of Fleetwood Mac’s classic hit, “The Chain.”
The Highwomen, a powerhouse country music ensemble, boasts a lineup of exceptionally talented and accomplished artists. Leading the pack is Brandi Carlile, a multifaceted singer renowned for her contributions to country, folk, and rock genres. With seven studio albums under her belt and six Grammy awards to her name, Carlile stands as a titan in the music industry, earning accolades from Billboard Women in Music, the Country Music Awards, and the UK Americana Awards.
Joining Carlile is Natalie Hemby, a gifted singer-songwriter celebrated for her two solo albums and her songwriting prowess, having penned hits for renowned artists like Carrie Underwood, Kelly Clarkson, and Sheryl Crow. Hemby’s talents have earned her four prestigious awards, including two Grammys.
Maren Morris, another luminary in the group, brings her unique blend of country, hip-hop, pop, and R&B influences to The Highwomen. With six studio albums to her credit and a plethora of awards, including more than ten significant accolades, Morris’s musical versatility and innovation shine brightly.
Rounding out the quartet is Amanda Shires, a distinguished country singer with an impressive discography of ten studio albums and collaborations with her husband, Jason Isbell. Shires, a Grammy award winner herself, was instrumental in the formation of The Highwomen during the #MeToo movement, aiming to amplify female voices in the male-dominated country music landscape.
The inception of The Highwomen took shape at the suggestion of producer Dave Cobb, who proposed the idea to Carlile, spurring a domino effect that saw Morris and Hemby eagerly joining the ranks. Named as an homage to the legendary Highwaymen supergroup, The Highwomen debuted in April 2019, with plans to leave the fourth slot open for other female artists to join in solidarity.
Their cover of “The Chain,” recorded in Howard Stern’s studio, showcases the group’s extraordinary talent and musical prowess. While Fleetwood Mac’s original version remains a timeless masterpiece, The Highwomen’s acoustic rendition infuses a fresh, soulful energy that resonates deeply with listeners. The addition of a violin adds a new dimension to the track, elevating it to new heights.
With over 6.4 million views on YouTube, The Highwomen’s rendition has garnered widespread acclaim, even among die-hard Fleetwood Mac fans. One commenter aptly captures the sentiment, describing it as “amazing” and praising the seamless harmony between vocals and instruments, which sends chills down the spine—a beautiful tribute to a classic.
In a musical landscape where authenticity and innovation reign supreme, The Highwomen’s cover of “The Chain” stands as a testament to their undeniable talent and collective artistry, cementing their rightful place among music’s elite.
the performance of “the chain” is one of the best I have ever seen. The sound work was equally as exceptional. It brings tears to my eyes.