The Black Belles: Nashville's Gothic Rock Trio That Captivated the Underground Scene
In the vibrant music scene of Nashville, Tennessee, The Black Belles carved out a unique niche that blended the raw energy of garage rock with the dark romanticism of gothic culture. Formed in 2009, this all-female trio would become one of the most distinctive acts to emerge from the city's underground scene.
The band's origin story reads like a perfect Nashville fairy tale. When Jack White, the legendary musician and founder of Third Man Records, received a demo from Olivia Jean, he was immediately intrigued by her haunting vocal style and original compositions. White invited Jean to record at his Nashville studio, but there was one problem – she didn't have a band. White's solution was inspired: he introduced Jean to bassist Ruby Rogers and drummer Shelby Lynne, creating an instant musical chemistry that would define The Black Belles' sound.
The trio's aesthetic was as compelling as their music. Drawing inspiration from the legend of Bell Witch Cave in Adams, Tennessee, they adopted a striking gothic look complete with signature wide-brimmed hats that resembled witches' headwear. This visual identity perfectly complemented their garage goth sound, creating a cohesive artistic vision that set them apart in the crowded rock landscape.
Their musical breakthrough came in 2010 with their first single, featuring What Can I Do? – one of Jean's original demo songs – paired with a cover of The Knickerbockers' Lies. The single, produced by Jack White, showcased the band's ability to blend vintage garage rock sensibilities with contemporary gothic elements, creating something entirely fresh yet familiar.
The Black Belles gained significant attention when horror icon Elvira adopted What Can I Do? as the theme song for her television show Elvira's Movie Macabre. This collaboration was a perfect match – the band's gothic aesthetic and Elvira's scream queen persona created a synergy that introduced their music to a broader audience and solidified their place in alternative culture.
Perhaps their most unexpected collaboration came in 2011 when they worked with comedian Stephen Colbert on Charlene II (I'm Over You), based on Colbert's comedic love song. The band's live performance of the B-side Charlene II (I'm Right Behind You) on The Colbert Report demonstrated their versatility and willingness to experiment beyond traditional gothic rock boundaries.
The pinnacle of their recording career arrived with their self-titled debut album The Black Belles, released on October 8, 2011. Produced by Jack White, the album captured the raw energy of their live performances while showcasing the sophisticated songwriting that had initially caught White's attention. The record served as both a culmination of their creative journey and a testament to their unique position in the rock landscape.
Despite their growing success and devoted following, The Black Belles went on hiatus in 2012, leaving behind a brief but impactful legacy. Olivia Jean continued her musical journey as a solo artist, releasing Bathtub Love Killings in 2014, also through Third Man Records. While the band's active period was relatively short, their influence on the garage goth genre and their distinctive contribution to Nashville's diverse musical tapestry remains undeniable.