Four must-see ladies who will rock your world come October.
By Katie Paschall
Court Yard Hounds
You might recognize this folk duo from a little trio known as the Dixie Chicks. In 2009, sisters Martie Maguire and Emily Robison decided to branch off from their famous ensemble and start a “side project” of their own. After 15 years, this pair has changed their tune with the Court Yard Hounds, ramping it up with a fresh take on country music. With their newly hatched incarnation as Court Yard Hounds, the two make it clear the Dixie Chicks is a close association and one they do not intend to neglect.
However, after releasing their second and most recent album, Amelita, in July, the twosome hit the ground running, touring the U.S. before making a quick stop at their hometown stomping grounds— ACL. In fact, as the pair rolls into Austin, they will have just performed at legendary festivals such as Lollapalooza and LouFest while also making appearances on the Late Show and The View. Critics say the sisters ain’t just whistlin’ Dixie when it comes to their new album, and we would have to agree. With rich folky harmonies and bluegrass tunes resonating, this toe-tapping 11-track record will have you fighting your way to the front of the crowd at the Austin City Limits Music Festival.
Lissie
Storming her way into public consciousness with her unique take on covers of Kid Cudi’s “Pursuit of Happiness” and Fleetwood Mac’s “Go Your Own Way,” Lissie is striking, clever and knows how to rock. A sweet girl from the Midwest, Lissie has been well received all over the world and has a massive fan base in the UK, where she will be touring before her ACL debut. She’s bound to be swigging shots of tequila as she sings her most recent single, Shameless, a straightforward critique on the entire music industry. With her compelling genre and down-to-earth performances, this Illinois-born folk-rock star is set to wow the crowd.
Holly Williams
An heir to the country music throne, this folky, Americana singer-songwriter is a must-see at this year’s ACL fest. Granddaughter of legendary country icon Hank Williams Sr. and daughter of Hank Williams Jr., Holly Williams is nothing short of a legend in the making. Her style is rich with deep country roots, and her honest melodies will send you right back to the good ol’ days. The inspiring purity and potency of her whiskey-kissed songs sets her apart from the vanilla Nashville mainstream singers in a city she currently calls home. With her haunting vocals, this country artist naturally lives up to the legacy of her last name and promises to send chills down your spine.
