The Barbirds are an alt-country powerhouse from Abingdon, VA. Comprised of local favorites Carly Booher Edwards, Zack Edwards and Andrew Clark of Annabelle’s Curse, along with Logan Fritz & Neal Reid of Fritz & Co, and Dave Kinder; they bring new life to a classic sound.
Bristol native Carly Booher Edwards got her start in bluegrass/country music at a very young age. After her involvement in the ETSU Bluegrass program, Edwards toured with the David Mayfield Parade before joining forces with Annabelle’s Curse in 2012. She has spent the past decade touring and recording multiple albums with Annabelle’s Curse. Now backed by her handpicked Barbirds, this outfit features Edwards getting back to her roots and paying homage to the 90’s country she grew up stomping her boots to.
Carly told us a little more about her goals for the Barbirds.
What are some of your musical influences?
I was born and raised in Bristol, TN: the Birthplace of Country Music, So I grew up on all the country classics. From Haggard & Dolly to modern country artists like Kacey Musgraves & Miranda Lambert, we (the Barbirds) are adding a fresh take to a familiar sound.
Who would you love to collaborate with?
The given: Dolly Parton. Who wouldn’t love a writing session with the queen? The wildcard: Post Malone. After hearing his country session I think a collab would be too fun.
Do you play covers at your shows? Why or why not?
Yes. Being a new band the audience may not know all of our originals so I think it’s important to play some familiar tunes. (Bonus points for adding a fresh new spin to make it our own.)
Have you ever been star-struck when playing with a musician?
Yes! A couple years ago I had the opportunity to sing a Carter family song backed by Jerry Douglas.
Is there a professional “bucket list” item you would love to check off?
The Mother Church, of course. The bucket list is ever growing but I would love to play the Grand Ole Opry!
The Barbirds — Instagram