Possessing a distinctive gravelly drawl, Lucinda Williams is one of the most easily recognized voices in Americana music today. Although she began her career in New Orleans in the 1970s, it was not until the mid 1990s that Williams was recognized nationally. Her Passionate Kisses was a top country hit for Mary Chapin Carpenter, and earned Williams a Grammy as songwriter.
Albums from Lucinda Williams were often spaced widely apart, due to her perfectionist streak leading to delays. In 1998 Williams released Car Wheels On A Gravel Road, a critical and commercial success. It was her first gold record, and won her a Grammy for Best Contemporary Folk Album.
Lucinda Williams would win another Grammy in 2001 for Best Female Rock Vocal, and began releasing albums at a faster pace and with some major contributors, including Matthew Sweet and Elvis Costello.
About 2 years ago Williams suffered a stroke which led to a weeks stay in intensive care and several months of therapy. Despite all of this, Williams is back on tour and receiving positive reviews. The incident took a toll on her mobility, balance and vision. She must be helped on and off stage and is not yet able to play guitar, but the distinctive voice has remained strong and capable of delivering her powerful songs.
