Alabama Shakes stages surprise reunion at Tuscaloosa benefit concert

The Alabama Shakes hiatus is over, at least for one night.

The long-dormant “Hold On” outfit played their first live show in over seven years on Wednesday during a benefit concert in Tuscaloosa. While frontwoman Brittany Howard had been announced as part of the bill, the Shakes reunion was a surprise.

According to AL.com, Howard initially took the stage by herself for an acoustic song before telling the crowd that she “forgot my electric guitar.” She then returned alongside Shakes bandmates Heath Fogg and Zac Cockrell for a full set.

Drummer Steve Johnson did not take part, AL.com reports. Johnson was arrested in 2021 and charged with child abuse, which was dismissed later that year.

You can watch footage of the Alabama Shakes reunion via the band’s Instagram Story.

Since the Shakes went on hiatus, Howard started a solo career and has put out two records: 2019’s Jaime and 2024’s What Now.

The Alabama Shakes hiatus is over, at least for one night.

The long-dormant “Hold On” outfit played their first live show in over seven years on Wednesday during a benefit concert in Tuscaloosa. While frontwoman Brittany Howard had been announced as part of the bill, the Shakes reunion was a surprise.

According to AL.com, Howard initially took the stage by herself for an acoustic song before telling the crowd that she “forgot my electric guitar.” She then returned alongside Shakes bandmates Heath Fogg and Zac Cockrell for a full set.

Drummer Steve Johnson did not take part, AL.com reports. Johnson was arrested in 2021 and charged with child abuse, which was dismissed later that year.

You can watch footage of the Alabama Shakes reunion via the band’s Instagram Story.

Since the Shakes went on hiatus, Howard started a solo career and has put out two records: 2019’s Jaime and 2024’s What Now.