Ruthie Foster’s 2020 album Live at the Paramount kicks off with “Brand New Day,” a roaring testament of endurance and love through the darkest struggles. The song’s soulful, gospel-intoned grit rang hopeful in a moment when the world and Austin’s music scene seemed bleakest, and the album earned Foster her fourth Grammy nomination. The Paramount Theatre returns the honor this weekend by dedicating a spot to the songwriter on their “Avenue of Paramount Stars,” only the sixth artist to receive the recognition. Over the past three decades, few voices have blessed Austin with more soul, power, and spirit than Foster.
The Texas native and Austin Music Awards Hall of Famer weaves through an eclectic songbook of blues, R&B, jazz, and roots music united by a deep compassion and fierce determination. Her ninth studio album, debuting tomorrow and aptly titled Healing Time, only further deepens that inspiration. Written with her band and with contributions from previous collaborators like Gary Nicholson and Grace Pettis, the new LP delivers salve and salvation with a classic R&B and soul flavor. Healing Time’s big, hook-swinging anthems unleash Foster’s voice at its richest and most poignant. As ever, the artist unfolds a benediction of joyful, truthful, and affirming experience. The public star ceremony starts at 6pm, with the ticketed full-band show to follow.