Alabama rock stars bid Colbert farewell: ‘A source of joy and light in these dark times’
Two of Alabama's greatest rock bands paid tribute to the host on the night of his final episode as the host of "Late Night."
Liam Carter 
As Stephen Colbert wrapped up his illustrious 11-year tenure as the host of CBS’s The Late Show, some of Alabama’s most iconic musical voices took a moment to salute the legendary host. The final broadcast, which aired this past Thursday, saw a star-studded send-off featuring heavy hitters like Paul McCartney, Bryan Cranston, and Paul Rudd, alongside a gathering of fellow late-night hosts including Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel.
Brittany Howard’s Heartfelt Tribute
Athens-born Grammy winner Brittany Howard, a frequent collaborator on the show, led the musical tributes. Howard, who has graced the stage multiple times—most recently for a performance of “What Now” in October 2024—shared her appreciation on social media. Reflecting on the show's conclusion, Howard posted a backstage photo with Colbert, calling him an “inspiration to us all.”
Howard's history with the program includes memorable renditions of “Stay High” and “Revolution,” the latter of which earned high praise from Colbert himself. Her early roots on the program even included a 2015 appearance alongside fellow Alabama native Paul Janeway of St. Paul and the Broken Bones, as well as an Alabama Shakes performance of “Joe.”
Drive-By Truckers and Jason Isbell Weigh In
The Drive-By Truckers also shared a deeply personal farewell. Last December, the group reunited with Jason Isbell for a performance of “Hell No, I Ain’t Happy.” Band leader Patterson Hood, who hails from the Shoals region, penned a passionate tribute to Colbert, describing him as a “true class act” who possesses “rare intelligence and grace.”
Reflecting on their final appearance, Hood noted that the experience was “next level,” emphasizing how the joy backstage was “moving and infectious.” He lauded Colbert as “a source of joy and light in these dark times.”
Jason Isbell’s own history with The Late Show is equally storied, featuring numerous performances including “King of Oklahoma,” “Cover Me Up,” and a collaboration with Strand of Oaks on “Ruby.”
Reflecting on a Final Chapter
Colbert’s farewell was marked by an emotional final monologue where he thanked his crew and audience before introducing his final guest, Paul McCartney. While Paramount announced the end of the show last summer, Colbert remained a ratings powerhouse. Despite the circumstances surrounding the show's closure—including questions regarding political pressures and corporate decisions—the focus of Thursday night remained entirely on the legacy of one of television's most beloved hosts.
