Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond Ben Bridwell (Band of Horses)
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Feb 17, 2026 Ben Bridwell, frontman and songwriter for Band of Horses, reflects on his Southern roots and the birth of the band’s signature 'y'allternative' sound. He recalls moving West, early DIY struggles, the making and reissue of Everything All the Time, sobriety and post-divorce growth, fatherhood grounding his life, and why the new record leans into a rawer, punchier vibe.
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From Driver To Drummer To Songwriter
- Ben joined Carissa's Wierd as a drummer because they needed someone who could drive and tour, despite limited drumming experience.
- He learned by practicing in a rehearsal space daily until he found melodies and began writing his own songs.
Mattress On Fire Sparked A Fresh Start
- Ben Bridwell nearly burned down his room when a candle ignited an old mattress during an El Niño storm and it wouldn't extinguish in rain.
- He was later hit by a car and then changed his one-way ticket to move to the Northwest, beginning his music career in Seattle.
Southern Roots Shaped Their Sound
- Ben's Southern identity gave Band of Horses a distinctive 'y'allternative' sound that stood out in Seattle's scene.
- He blended southern influences with echoey, psychedelic textures to create a unique melodic presence.