May 18, 2026
Some people hold a place in your heart that is disproportionately greater than the amount of time you actually spent with them. Marideth Sisco was one of the most remarkable people I've ever met, an extraordinary singer, folklorist, writer, radio producer, storyteller, gardener, teacher, mentor, queer icon, and so much more. She was brilliant, kind, courageous, and funny as hell. She did not suffer fools. And she sang like an angel - one with some miles behind her, but still an angel. She lived a life that was wide and deep, but remained firmly rooted in her Ozarks homeland. We met when I was asked to produce the sessions for the soundtrack of Winter's Bone, and I was quickly charmed. We worked well together, and I was honored to be invited back to produce another album with her band, Blackberry Winter. During the latter sessions I suggested she sing this gorgeous Hazel Dickens song, and I was humbled when she asked me to teach it to her rather than learn it from a record. No pressure! Even though those recording sessions were the only time I've spent in her presence, I came away with a deep sense of mutual respect and friendship. I am so grateful to have known her, and I will miss her for the rest of my days. Fly, fly away...