The Oregon State University College of Liberal Arts (CLA) presents a conversation and live remote performance with Allison Russell.

Allison Russell is an artist, activist, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist of extraordinary power, talent and grace. A founding member of the acclaimed groups Our Native Daughters (with Rhiannon Giddens, Leyla McCalla and Amythyst Kiah), and Birds of Chicago (with her husband/musical partner JT Nero), the Montreal native has begun to emerge as a potent force among creative circles worldwide. On her debut solo album "Outside Child" (Fantasy Records / Concord), Allison unpacks the story of her traumatic childhood in a deeply moving, unforgettable song-cycle of courage, empathy, and love. Outside Child is a powerful and warm statement of hope, resilience and the redemptive power of art – asserted from a place of healing, of motherhood, of partnership – and from a new home made in Nashville.

Russell is currently nominated for three 2022 GRAMMY awards: Best Americana Album, Best American Roots Song, and best American Roots Performance. Her debut album was selected as the number one album of 2021 by Variety's Chris Wilman and the number two album of 2021 by the New Times. It was number four on National Public Radio's list. She was also included in former President Barack Obama's favorite music of the year list.

The webcast event is part of CLA’s American String Series. Hosted by OSU Director of Popular Music and Performing Arts Bob Santelli, each segment of American Strings is comprised of a conversation and live, intimate performance by successful artists from a variety of genres, making for a one of a kind opportunity to appreciate and know better the great American music tradition.

Free, open to all. Registration required for link to view.