The Burns Sisters
Annie and Marie Burns, a captivating musical duo, are renowned for creating uplifting and transcendent music that radiates warmth and conviction. Their harmonies and lyrics are filled with passion and soul, stirring the hearts of listeners. In early 2015, they celebrated the release of their new album, "Looking Back, Our American Irish Souls," a testament to their pure harmony, beautiful lyrics, and joyful energy.
Born into a progressive, political, musical, and creative family in Binghamton, New York, Annie and Marie are two of twelve siblings who have been singing together since their early childhood. Their mother, Teresa, a cherished local singer and church soloist, and their father, John J Burns, a progressive Kennedy school politician, fostered their love for music and the arts. With several of their siblings also involved in the music, movie, and TV industry as singers, actors, and producers, a passion for creativity runs deep in their family.
During their high school years and just after, the sisters embarked on individual musical journeys. Marie and Jeannie moved to Florida and started a musical career in San Antonio, where they fell in love with old-time country and bluegrass music. Encouraged by Annie, who had been performing gigs around town, Marie returned from Florida, and the three sisters joined forces. Drawn by the vibrant music scene in Ithaca, New York, they relocated there and began their musical journey as "The Burns Sisters." They wrote, recorded, and released their own songs, launching albums through esteemed labels such as Columbia Records and Rounder Records. Today, Marie and Annie release their music under their independent label, "Sisters Music." Together and individually, they have written and produced approximately 20 CDs.
Throughout their career, The Burns Sisters have experienced different band configurations. They started as a trio, later expanded to include all five sisters, and released two recordings on Columbia Records. Eventually, they returned to their original trio format and signed with Rounder/Philo Records. A few years ago, Jeannie Burns departed from 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, a captivating blend of Celtic and Americana influences, has gained recognition in Ireland, Wales, the UK, Scotland, Canada, and the USA. It was released in 2015.
The Burns Sisters have graced the stage alongside folk legends such as Arlo Guthrie, Tom Paxton, Pete Seeger, Odetta, and Willie Nelson, leaving their mark from Carnegie Hall to the Grand Ole Opry and even the hills of Northern Thailand and County Clare, Ireland. They have contributed their beautiful backup harmonies to numerous projects and have been 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 described their album "Looking Back, Our American Irish Souls" as a truly magnificent and superb piece of work, applauding their flawless vocal performances, moving renditions of classic songs, and exceptional production quality.
The Burns Sisters continue to inspire audiences worldwide with their heartfelt music, authentic harmonies, and unwavering dedication to their craft. Their timeless sound and captivating performances create a profound connection through the power of music.
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To order t-shirts go to Paypal at Annieburns@gmail.com just send your size and payment. Right now we have men's Xl and women's medium. OR you can find me on Venmo @A-Burns-1 for $35 for each shirt. I'll be ordering more in different sizes. Or send a check to Annie Burns Po Box 845 Ithaca, NY 14850. We are getting ready to advertise our next trip to Ireland!