POTD: Sister Sadie

Sister Sadie: The Original Bluegrass Powerhouse

The Beginning of the Story

In the heart of Nashville, Tennessee, a group of talented women came together to form what would become a bluegrass sensation. Sister Sadie, an all-female band, started as a one-time show at the Station Inn in December 2012 but quickly became a musical force to be reckoned with. 

The original members—Deanie Richardson on fiddle, Gena Britt with her banjo and vocals, Dale Ann Bradley, Tina Adair, and Beth Lawrence—created a sound that was both classic and fresh, rooted in the traditions of Appalachian music yet infused with a power and presence all their own.

The band’s journey is a testament to the power of music and sisterhood. What was initially a fun gig to celebrate the holiday season turned into a decade-long musical adventure. The chemistry was palpable, and the audience’s response was immediate, setting the stage for their remarkable journey.

Sister Sadie’s music is a unique blend of scorching hot bluegrass, driven by breathtaking instrumentals and awe-inspiring vocals. Their sound is distinct and rooted in harmonious vocal arrangements. It is not the typical high-lonesome sound of traditional bluegrass but something more potent—it’s the sound of the mountains themselves.

The original lineup of Sister Sadie reached heights that none of them could have imagined. Their second studio album, “Sister Sadie II,” released on Pinecastle Records, led to a debut on the Grand Ole Opry, an IBMA award for Vocal Group of the Year, and a GRAMMY nomination for Bluegrass Album of the Year. In 2020, Deanie Richardson was named the IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year, and the band took home the top prize as the Entertainer of the Year, with Sister Sadie also being named Vocal Group of the Year for the second consecutive year.

A New Chapter

Change is a constant in life, and Sister Sadie has embraced it. The addition of new members Jaelee Roberts, Dani Flowers, and Maddie Dalton has injected fresh energy and talent into the group. This evolution ensures that the band continues to grow and evolve while staying true to its bluegrass roots.

Sister Sadie is more than a band; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of bluegrass music and the power of collaboration. From a spontaneous one-off show to a celebrated and award-winning ensemble, Sister Sadie has proven that blessings happen. They are not just playing music; they are creating a legacy.

As Sister Sadie continues to tour and release new music, they carry with them the legacy of their original members and the promise of bluegrass music that resonates with the soul. They are a reminder that  traditional music can be timeless and ever-evolving in the right hands, just like the mountains that inspire their songs.

For more information about Sister Sadie and their music, you can visit their official website.