Grammy-nominated bluegrass group, Sister Sadie, have released their version of country artist Cam’s song, “Diane.”
Deanie Richardson, the fiddler player of Sister Sadie, first heard the song when she was playing in the band for Cam at the Grand Ole Opry. Richardson then brought the song to the group, as she thought it would be a perfect number for her band to record- and she wasn’t wrong.
The band consists of an all-star lineup, each with their own individual accolades. Along with Richardson, the quintet features Gena Britt (vocals and banjo), Hasee Ciaccio (bass and vocals), Jaelee Roberts (guitar and vocals), and Mary Meyer (mandolin and vocals.) All of them together bring their love of traditional bluegrass and their one-of-a-kind talents to form Sister Sadie.
Along with a Grammy Nomination for Best Bluegrass Album in 2019, the group has also won Vocal Group of the Year three years in a row (2019, 2020, 2021) and Entertainer of the Year (2020) at the International Bluegrass Music Association Awards.
Their new single, “Diane,” is a song that has been described as the answer to Dolly Parton’s “Jolene,” and also touches on infidelity. “The other woman” sings to the husband’s wife, “I didn’t know he was your man / I would have noticed a gold wedding band, Diane.”
Sister Sadie’s version transforms the song from a pop country hit to a contemporary bluegrass classic. When asked about the process of making this song fit their sound, Richardson said, “It features the intricate harmony vocals that this band is drawn to and showcases some stellar playing as well from every member. Once we dug in, the ideas and excitement started pouring out of all of us.”
“Diane” was released on September 30th, and is available on all streaming platforms. It is also the first bluegrass single right out of the gate to be available in immersive audio, powered by Dolby Atmos.
Featured photo by Jon Roncolato Photography