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Redhead Express
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Four sisters with a dream; a big dream. That dream involves music, family, all of you, and most importantly, God, who’s made this all possible. This talented 4 sister group has been touring from Alaska since 2007, performing over 2000 shows. They now reside in middle Tennessee, in the heart of America’s roots music. The music of the Redhead Express takes you back to your Roots in a way that feels fresh and new.
1
How did growing up in Alaska influence your music?
Kendra -guitar and lead singer: I think Alaska influenced our music in a lot of ways. First, there’s quite a variety of music up there, since most people in Alaska are originally from somewhere else. I remember hearing Bluegrass, Celtic, Native Alaskan music, Folk and Blues all at the same festival. Also, a lot of my writing is inspired by nature and scenery and that wild rusticness that is Alaska.
Alisa – Fiddle Player: Honestly, Alaska was a great place to get started. That’s how our family found out about Bluegrass music. We did shows anywhere we could (aka, anywhere anybody would give us a spot to sing!) for hamburgers & fries, went to every Jam session we could get to, and loved every bit of it. We set out from there to find those who started this kind of bluegrass style, the founders of the Roots music of America, and from there we’ve explored the various scenes of music, and created a style of our own. And it’s been such an amazingly, fun journey ever since.
Meghan – Bass Player: There really isn’t a lot of music that makes its way all the way up to Alaska. You’ll find a lot of Folk, Irish and even some Bluegrass music in Alaska, and those styles have definitely influenced our sound.
LaRae- Banjo Player: Alaska is so far away from everything, that their music is a big mix of whatever can make it all the way up there; a little bit of folk, a little bit of Country, Rock, Pop, and even some Russian music influence. We started out playing bluegrass – or as they call it up there – “Alaska-grass”. Then we bought an RV & headed south to the “lower 48” to really learn how to play.
2
Who are your music influences? Past and present
Kendra: Eva Cassidy, Dixie Chicks, Alison Krauss, Bonnie Raitt, Tony Rice, Keith Urban.
Alisa: Some of the biggest influences for me as the fiddler have to be Alison Krauss, Stuart Duncan, Sarah Watkins and the Dixie Chicks. They all have a different way of fiddling, which, by studying their differences, gives me a chance to create my own style.
Meghan: The Dixie Chicks are one of our biggest musical influences. I think they inspired us because, not only were they a girl group, but they also came from the same background as we did; bluegrass music. Alison Krauss, Ella Fitzgerald, Keith Urban and Eva Cassidy have also influenced our music.
LaRae: I was definitely influenced by what my parents listened to. My Dad taught me the love for 70-80’s music: Journey, STYX, ABBA, The Eagles, Bryan Adams, and Kansas. My Mom was a concert pianist, so I listened to a lot of Classical. Some of my other favorite artists are: Keith Urban, Allison Krauss, Celine Dion, Aretha Franklin, Dixie Chicks & Vince Gill.
3
What is your creative process in writing a song?
Kendra: Honestly, it’s always a little different. I always keep a notebook or a note on my phone of song ideas and always try to record melodies when they come. But sometimes a song starts with a line, other times a melody, and sometimes both come together.
4
What sort of hobbies or activities do you enjoy when you have time off?
Kendra: I love anything outdoors in the summer; hiking, fishing, camping, etc.. Really, when I have time off, I just love spending time with family.
Meghan: Growing up in Alaska, I gained a love for the outdoors: hiking, camping, walks, picnics, fishing. I also love to read, write and eat chocolate. 🙂
LaRae: Besides music? I love to spend time with my family. Meghan and I bake and research about health, together. We all enjoy the outdoors: gardening, hiking, camping, and fishing. I’m an avid reader. I love anything crafty. If I could, I’d decorate every room in my home with pinterest-inspired themes. 🙂
5
What’s like to be part of the Hammers & High Heels Fundraiser?
Kendra: I love what Hammers & High Heels is all about and in honored and excited to get to be a part of it in any way!
Meghan: Hammers & High Heels is such a great cause. I love to know that, while I’m doing what I love, I’m also able to help others in need.
LaRae: I love what they stand for and the impact they’re making for good, in our community. Grateful to be a part of it!
