Liz Phair Biography

Elizabeth Clark Phair was born 1967 in Connecticut. Largely associated now with adult contemporary music, Liz’s foray into music actually began as a member, if not driving force, of the early 1990’s “indie” rock movement in music. But long before her rise to prominence, her introduction to music began with a meeting with Chris Brokaw, a musician with the band Come. When Chris heard Liz’s music, he encouraged her to consider recording a demo. Liz’s first attempts were written under the Band Perry Girly Sound, and she soon found herself immersed in the Chicago alternative music scene.

Liz Phair eventually made contact with Gerard Cosloy, of Matador Records, and he agreed to listen to a tape. An agreement followed, and Exile in Guyville became Liz Phair’s debut, released in 1993. The album was highly acclaimed, and so Liz Phair began immediate work on her sophomore album, which hit the charts with the single “Supernova.” Whip-Smart eventually rose into the Top 40 and certified gold, and Liz found herself with significant airplay on both radio and MTV.

Additional albums followed, including Whitechocolatespaceegg (1998), Liz Phair (2003), and Somebody’s Miracle (2005), with hit singles like “Turning Japanese” and “Polyester Bride.” In 2008, Liz Phair switched labels to ATO Records, and re-released Exile in Guyville on CD, but also in digital format and on vinyl. Three additional songs were added to the album, including an instrumental, “Say You,” and “Ant in Alaksa.” In 2009, Phair released the single “Faith and Tenderness,” and Funstyle was released in 2010.

Today, Liz Phair continues to branch out with music endeavors beyond writing and recording her own albums. She began writing for television and film in the late 2000’s, including music for Swingtown, 90210, In Plain Sight, and The Weber Show. In 2012, she composed for the film People Like Us. Most recently, Phair announced that she has returned to the studio to prepare for her next studio album, expected sometime in 2018.

Liz Phair’s achievements include so far selling nearly three million records and a host of recognitions and awards. She has been thus far nominated for two Grammies, for the singles “Supernova” and “Don’t have Time,” both for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance, in 1995 and 1996. She has also earned two ASCAP awards for Top Television Composer.