Brandi Carlile was born on June 1, 1981 in Ravensdale, Washington. She started playing guitar and writing songs since she was fifteen. At the age sixteen, she began performing as a backup singer for an Elvis Presley impersonator. Brandi continued pursuing her career as a singer, performing at Seattle's local clubs such as The Crocodile, Tractor Tavern, and Paragon along with twin brothers Tim and Phil Hanseroth. She also sold her self-released record to those coming to her shows.