2025 Distinguished Alumni

Amanda

Shires

Amanda Shires is an American singer-songwriter, violinist, and a celebrated figure in the Americana, country, and folk music scenes. Born and raised in the small town of Lubbock, Texas, Shires developed a love for music at an early age. She began playing the violin at just 10 years old and later went on to study at Texas Tech University, where she further nurtured her musical talents and creative writing skills. It was during her time at Texas Tech that Shires honed her ability to craft evocative stories, blending her passion for literature with her musical expertise, which would later define her distinctive style.

Shires’ career took flight when she became a member of The Highwomen, an Americana supergroup alongside Brandi Carlile, Natalie Hemby, and Maren Morris. Her solo career has also garnered critical acclaim, with albums like My Piece of Land and To the Sunset being praised for their introspective lyrics and genre-defying sound. Throughout her career, she has collaborated with iconic artists such as John Prine, solidifying her status as a respected and influential figure in the music industry.

Shires' talent has earned her numerous accolades, including multiple Grammy nominations, both as a solo artist and as part of The Highwomen. She received a nomination for Artist of the Year at the 2020 Americana Music Honors & Awards and has been recognized by major publications like Rolling Stone and Pitchfork for her unique approach to songwriting and musicianship.

Her most recent album, Take It Like a Man (2023), has earned critical praise for its bold and personal lyrics, showcasing Shires' evolution as an artist. As she continues to navigate her career, Shires finds inspiration in her daughter, with whom she balances family life and music.

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