Grammy Award-winning artist and Austin favorite Ruthie Foster is saying yes to a new chapter. The Texas-born blues, gospel, and soul powerhouse has released her new album, “Just Say Yes,” a project inspired by opportunity, perseverance, and the Austin music community that helped her career blossom.
Foster joined We Are Austin’s Trevor Scott for HAAM Music Monday, powered by FVF Law, to celebrate the new release, reflect on earning her first Grammy Award, and share why Austin continues to hold such a special place in her life and music.
Foster joined We Are Austin’s Trevor Scott for HAAM Music Monday, powered by FVF Law, to celebrate the new release, reflect on earning her first Grammy Award and share why Austin continues to hold such a special place in her life and music.
A Texas Sound Rooted in Many Traditions
Born and raised in Texas, Foster says her music reflects the many sounds she heard growing up.
“In Texas, we were influenced by all music from every side,” Foster said. “A lot of what I do is blues and gospel and soul and really whatever I can get away with these days.”
No matter the genre, one influence has a way of shining through.
“It seems that everything I do, it does come out to be more gospel than anything,” Foster said. “That’s the flavor that comes out.”
Grammy Award-winning artist and Austin favorite Ruthie Foster is saying yes to a new chapter. The Texas-born blues, gospel, and soul powerhouse has released her new album, “Just Say Yes,” a project inspired by opportunity, perseverance, and the Austin music community that helped her career blossom. Photo Courtesy Jody Domingue
The Story Behind “Just Say Yes”
The inspiration for Foster’s new album dates back to her move to Austin.
After taking a break from music, Foster placed a Post-it note on her computer monitor with a simple reminder: “Just say yes.”
“I put that little note up there just to say yes to the opportunity to get back into music,” Foster said.
What happened next was closely connected to the community she found in Austin.
“I’ve been in a lot of musical towns, but there’s no city like this,” Foster said. “It’s so nurturing. Every musician supports all the other musicians.”
Grammy Award-winning artist and Austin favorite Ruthie Foster is saying yes to a new chapter. The Texas-born blues, gospel, and soul powerhouse has released her new album, “Just Say Yes,” a project inspired by opportunity, perseverance, and the Austin music community that helped her career blossom.
Foster said her career has continued to flourish since making Austin home, and she still tries to catch as much live music as possible when she’s not on the road.
The title track carries the same philosophy that inspired the album.
“It’s just really about saying yes to opportunity, saying yes to blessings,” Foster said. “That’s what I’ve found in my career, in my life and everywhere.”
Grammy Award-winning artist and Austin favorite Ruthie Foster is saying yes to a new chapter. The Texas-born blues, gospel, and soul powerhouse has released her new album, “Just Say Yes,” a project inspired by opportunity, perseverance, and the Austin music community that helped her career blossom.
Becoming a Grammy Award Winner
Foster also reflected on a career milestone: winning her first Grammy Award last year.
After years in the music industry, she described the honor in one word: “validating.”
“It was just a real blessing,” Foster said. “It’s opened doors and opportunities to get a chance to sing with other musicians, and it’s kind of nice to have that under your name.”
And yes, the actual Grammy has found a home on her mantle.
Hear the New Music Live
Austin fans have an opportunity to hear songs from “Just Say Yes” during a solo in-store performance at Waterloo Records, where Foster plans to perform a 30-minute set featuring mostly material from the new album.
Music Monday powered by FVF Law! Grammy winner Ruthie Foster discusses new album
A tour is also ahead, with additional dates and details available through Foster’s website and social media.
“Just Say Yes” is available now. Follow Ruthie Foster online for new music, tour dates, and upcoming performances.
HAAM Music Monday is powered by FVF Law, whose support of the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians helps HAAM provide access to affordable health care for Austin’s working musicians.
HAAM Music Monday is powered by FVF Law, whose support of the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians helps HAAM provide access to affordable health care for Austin’s working musicians.