The Burns Sisters

The Burns Sisters, Annie and Marie Burns, are a dynamic duo known for creating uplifting and transcendent music filled with warmth and conviction. Their harmonies and lyrics are passionate, seductive, and bursting with spirit and soul. In early 2015, they celebrated the release of their new album "Looking Back, Our American Irish Souls," showcasing their pure harmony, beautiful lyrics, and joyful energy. 

Annie and Marie were born in Binghamton, New York, into a progressive, political, musical, and creative family. They are two of twelve siblings who have been singing together since their early childhood. Their mother, Teresa, was a treasured local singer and church soloist, while their father, John J Burns, was a progressive Kennedy School politician. With several siblings involved in the music, movie, and TV industry as singers, actors, and producers, a love for the arts runs in their family. 

During their high school years and shortly after, the sisters pursued their individual musical paths. Marie and Jeannie moved to Florida and began their musical careers in San Antonio, where they fell in love with old-time country and bluegrass music. Encouraged by Annie, who performed gigs in town while not in school, Marie and Jeannie returned from Florida, and the three sisters joined forces. Drawn by the vibrant music scene in Ithaca, New York, they moved there and began working as "The Burns Sisters," writing and recording their own songs. They released albums through renowned labels such as Columbia Records and Rounder Records. Nowadays, Marie and Annie release their music on their own label, "Sisters Music." Together and separately, they have performed, written, and produced approximately 20 CDs. 

The Burns Sisters have gone through various band configurations over the years. They started as a trio, then expanded to include all five sisters, and released two recordings on Columbia Records. Eventually, they returned to their original trio format. They signed with Rounder Records and toured Folk Venues and Festivals around the country.  A few years ago, Jeannie Burns left the band to pursue her musical aspirations in the vibrant Austin music scene. Marie and Annie followed their hearts to Ireland, where they performed at established music festivals in the West of Ireland. During their time there, they delved into their family history and explored the true Irish narrative of the famine and mass migration. This experience compelled and inspired them to write and record their latest project, "Looking Back, Our American Irish Souls." The album, infused with Celtic and Americana influences, has garnered attention in Ireland, Wales, the UK, Scotland, Canada, and the USA. It was released in January 2015. 

The Burns Sisters have graced the stage alongside folk legends such as Arlo Guthrie, Tom Paxton, Pete Seeger, Odetta, and Willie Nelson, performing at renowned venues like Carnegie Hall and the Grand Ole Opry. They have also traveled internationally, from the hills of Northern Thailand to County Clare, Ireland, sharing their beautiful backup harmonies on numerous projects. The sisters were regular performers at The Woody Guthrie Folk Fest in Okemah, Oklahoma, where they continue to captivate audiences. 

Both Annie and Marie have had their songs featured on television shows, including "ER" and "Holiday High School Reunion." Annie's commanding and sensitive voice has been praised by Rosanne Cash, an American singer-songwriter and author, for its bell-like, steady, warm, and heartfelt quality. Renowned writer, music producer, and poet PJ Curtis hailed their album "Looking Back, Our American Irish Souls" as a truly magnificent and superb piece of work, commending their flawless vocal performances, moving renditions of classic songs, and exceptional production quality. 

The Burns Sisters continue to enchant listeners worldwide with their heartfelt music, authentic harmonies, and unwavering dedication to their craft. Their songs resonate with audiences, forging a deep connection that transcends borders and cultures.

They continue with their travel groups to Ireland. 

Both are working on individual projects and enjoying post-pandemic life.