THE BAND
Sister Sadie is a groundbreaking, all-female bluegrass band that has become a force to be reckoned with in the genre and beyond. Formed serendipitously during a one-off jam session at Nashville’s legendary Station Inn, the group’s undeniable chemistry transformed a casual collaboration into a full-time powerhouse.
Today, Sister Sadie is celebrated for their electrifying performances, stellar musicianship and the seamless blend of tradition and innovation they bring to bluegrass music. The band is composed of six supremely talented musicians, each with a rich history of individual achievements that elevate the collective magic of Sister Sadie.
Gena Britt (banjo, vocals)
Gena is a veteran of bluegrass music with a career spanning decades. Hailing from North Carolina, she has played with acclaimed acts like Petticoat Junction, New Vintage and the Alan Bibey Project. A highly sought-after banjo player, Gena’s driving style and vocal harmonies have earned her a reputation as one of the finest in the business. She is also a past nominee for IBMA Banjo Player of the Year.
Deanie Richardson (fiddle)
Deanie’s fiery fiddling and emotional depth have made her a standout in both bluegrass and country music. A Grammy-nominated artist, she has toured and recorded with legends such as Bob Seger, Vince Gill, Patty Loveless and The Chieftains. Deanie’s contributions to Sister Sadie are marked by her precision and passion, adding layers of complexity and beauty to their sound. Deanie was named Fiddle Player of the Year by the IBMA in 2020 and again in 2024.
Jaelee Roberts (guitar, lead vocals)
Jaelee, the band’s lead vocalist, is a rising star with roots in a musical family. Her soulful voice and dynamic stage presence have quickly established her as one of the brightest young talents in bluegrass. In 2021, she was awarded the IBMA Momentum Vocalist of the Year and in 2024, Female Vocalist of the Year, a testament to her extraordinary vocal ability and the emotional connection she brings to every performance.
Dani Flowers (guitar, vocals)
Dani is a multi-talented artist whose skills as a songwriter, vocalist and instrumentalist bring depth to Sister Sadie’s repertoire. Her songwriting has been featured on projects across multiple genres and her contributions to the band include crafting harmonies and delivering heartfelt guitar work, and a layer of storytelling that resonates with audiences.
Maddie Dalton (bass)
Maddie is a young but formidable talent whose rock-solid bass playing and vocals anchor Sister Sadie’s sound. Her steady rhythm and keen musical instincts ensure a seamless foundation for the band’s intricate arrangements. Maddie’s energetic performances and dedication to her craft make her an indispensable part of the group. Maddie was the recipient of Instrumentalist of the Year Momentum Award at the 2023 IBMAs.
Rainy Miatke (mandolin, vocals)
The newest addition to Sister Sadie, Rainy brings a fresh perspective and an extraordinary skill set to the band. Her mandolin playing is marked by precision and flair enrich the group’s signature sound. Rainy is already carving out her place as a standout talent in bluegrass.
Together, Sister Sadie has released three critically acclaimed albums. Their debut, Sister Sadie (2016), introduced their masterful musicianship to the world, while Sister Sadie II (2018) solidified their reputation as one of the leading acts in bluegrass. That release, Sister Sadie II, was a watershed moment, earning a Grammy nomination for “Best Bluegrass Album.”
The band has also claimed the IBMA Vocal Group of the Year award three times, in 2019, 2020 and 2021, highlighting their exceptional harmonies and innovative arrangements, as well as Entertainer of the Year in 2020.
In 2024, Sister Sadie released their long-awaited third release, No Fear, marking a triumphant return for Sadie, blending their bold artistry with the energy and resilience that have defined the group through the years.
From “Diane,” a spirited country cover debuted at the IBMA Awards in 2023 to the chart-topping, Ashley McBryde-written “Willow,” No Fear has proven that Sister Sadie is stronger than ever, showcasing deep artistry and a fearless spirit that makes them a leading voice in bluegrass today - and ultimately presented the band with their second Grammy nomination, once again for “Best Bluegrass Album.”
Whether performing at the Grand Ole Opry, headlining major festivals or recording award-winning albums, Sister Sadie exemplifies the spirit of bluegrass while pushing its boundaries. Their commitment to storytelling, technical prowess and heartfelt performances ensures they remain at the forefront of the genre.
With a shared passion for their craft and a dedication to excellence, Sister Sadie is more than a band—they are a movement, carrying the torch for bluegrass music into the future while honoring its rich traditions.