The power of the song lives on to this day, getting new life and earning Miss Carlile an entire legion of fans across the globe after it was featured in the August 8 Opening Ceremonies of the 2008 Summer Olympics during GM’s moving commercial highlighting their goal to find alternative fuel solutions.
GM Ad "The Story"
And “Carlile, a committed environmentalist, has pledged to donate all proceeds from the advertisement to environmental charities,” according to the press release which also pointed out that the album that features the song and shares the same name has “gone on to sell over a quarter of a million units.” You can view the official video for the song on Carlile’s official YouTube Channel by visiting this link and it can also be heard on her MySpace Page.
Following the success of the Olympics ad placement, Carlile released Live From Boston a wonderful iTunes Exclusive EP that features four tracks including a rollicking cover of Johnny Cash’s “Folson Prison Blues” and a live video performance of her song “Josephine.”
The EP begins with “Have You Ever,” which, when performed live offers immediate proof that her voice is so powerful she needs minimal accompaniment. One of those old folksy Joan Baez styled tracks that seem to illustrate just what an old soul the early twenties songstress is. And although its lyrics are simple enough, it’s the way she plays them like a violin and even more the way she climbs the musical scales throughout, making the sheer sound of her vocalization more poignant than any word included. The catchy track again solidifies her All-American appeal and earthy persona, thus it became the track used in JC Penney’s “American Living” apparel commercial.
JCPenney Ad "Have You Ever"
Article comments
1 - just.a.fan.
Carlile is amazing, and the Boston EP rocks, while the cover of Creep is killer. Its always nice to read about her, i cant wait for her new cd. hands down one of the best artiest out there, her voice and lyrics blow me away every time. and her recent work on Amy Rays new cd is really nice too, how can it not be though, its Amy Ray and Brandi Carlile, it just doesn't get much better then that. although i think shes older then 23.
2 - ben
just wanted to say that she's definitely not 23. at least 27.
and also wanted to say that it's SNOWING!
3 - Jen
Thanks for reading, you guys and sorry about the snow, Ben! She very well could be older; I just went from the info provided by her record company and website but regardless of age-- that's one amazing talent!! :)
Happy listening.
- Jen