In the picturesque heart of Southwest Virginia, two young girls embarked on a remarkable musical odyssey that would capture the hearts of many. Savannah and Sarah Church, lovingly referred to as “The Church Sisters,” are the fraternal twins who brought their dulcet harmonies to life against the backdrop of the Appalachian Mountains.
Their captivating journey commenced in 2007 when they won the coveted WAKG Rising Stars Talent Competition. Their angelic voices were the key to unlocking a future filled with melodies and dreams. With their stepfather, Jay, and their brother, Seth, joining the ensemble, a family band was born, and the stage was set for a remarkable story.
The Church Sisters crisscrossed their beloved Virginia, sharing their music with intimate gatherings and sizable audiences alike. Their star continued to rise, and at the tender age of 12, they astounded the world by releasing their debut gospel album, “Farther Along.” This was just the beginning, as they followed up with two more self-produced albums: “There’s You” and a self-titled masterpiece.
In 2012, the sisters embarked on an adventure across the Midwest, gracing the stage as the opening act for Brandon Heath on the Blue Mountain tour, leaving audiences spellbound with their harmonies and stage presence.
Their enchanting voices didn’t go unnoticed. The world of bluegrass, gospel, and traditional country took notice of The Church Sisters. The legendary Carl Jackson became one of their most ardent supporters during their teenage years, inviting them to perform on the iconic “Larry’s Country Diner” before they even had driver’s licenses.
Television screens across the nation were soon graced with their talent as they appeared on shows like “Larry’s Country Diner,” “Country’s Family Reunion,” and Daystar Networks’ “Gospel Music Showcase.” Collaborations with music legends such as Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Marty Stuart, Brad Paisley, and many others became a testament to their musical prowess.
The Church Sisters had the privilege of working with Grammy award-winning producer Carl Jackson on compilation albums like “Mark Twain: Words and Music” and “Orthophonic Joy.” In 2016, they reached a significant milestone by signing their first record deal and began crafting their debut country record under the guidance of Grammy Award-winning producer Julian Raymond. The result was the enchanting “A Night At the Opry,” which was released in May of 2018.
Their journey took them beyond their homeland as they graced national and international fairs and festivals. Audiences at iconic venues like the Ryman Auditorium and the Bridgestone Arena marveled at their harmonious talents, especially when they provided stirring backup vocals for Eric Church and Hank Williams Jr. during the 2015 CMA’s.
Yet, even the most harmonious melodies sometimes require a pause. In 2019, The Church Sisters decided to take a break from their musical collaboration. Fans across the globe anxiously awaited their return, and in 2022, Savannah and Sarah answered the call of their music-loving followers.
The Church Sisters are now back, their voices once again in perfect unison. They’re busy scheduling shows featuring their most beloved classics and unveiling some brand-new material to the delight of their fans. As the sisters embark on this new chapter, they have a thrilling surprise in store: a forthcoming album, its release date shrouded in anticipation.
So, music enthusiasts and admirers of The Church Sisters, stay tuned as they embark on a journey of renewed harmony, capturing hearts all over again. Their resplendent melodies are bound to weave a tapestry of enchantment, painting the world with their timeless, soul-stirring tunes.
This copyrighted story by Sasha Dunavant was originally published in Country Reunion Magazine and Country Reunion News.