Brandi Carlile’s “The Story” Takes on Being Magically Made For Each Other

Brandi Carlile’s “The Story” is the singer’s most popular song, though it’s among the few in her portfolio she played no role in writing. This song of love simply declares the arrival of a superstar. Written by Phil Hanseroth, together with his twin brother, Tim, and smoothly produced by T-Bone Burnett, the entire quality is immense and emotional, with subtle ambient elements added for added character. 

Phil Hanseroth composed “The Story” before the twins teamed up with Brandi Carlile and began performing together. The three artists met in Seattle after the Fighting Machinists, the twins’ hard-rock band, disbanded, and then Carlile, busking and doing gigs, recruited them to perform rock and country songs with her. 

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The song is nothing extra until we began playing with Brandi, and she was able to put some depth into it, says Phil. It’s like she has all these stories about the things she withstood in life. You know, when you experience a lot of suffering, regrets, and struggles in life, and you feel hopeless. But one day, you meet this special person who changes everything, who gives you comfort and contentment. 

“The Story” by Brandi Carlile is relatively about being happy to have someone to tell everything and feel secure knowing that you’re in good hands – that even through difficult days, this person will be there for you. And although you are imperfect, you are with the person who loves and understands you. 

“The Story” has become the biggest hit from all Brandi Carlile’s songs in the album – the breakthrough that went Gold. The song peaked at #75 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, #48 on the Digital Songs chart, and #35 on the Adult Top40 Airplay. It has also been #1 on the Billboard Portugal chart, #6 on the Swiss singles chart, and #3 on the Norwegian VG-lista chart. 

It was later recorded by several artists, like Sara Ramirez, LeAnn Rimes, and Dolly Parton. If you want to listen to the original version, check Brandi Carlile’s “The Story” music video below.