“Being nominated in a category that’s been dominated by The Judds and Brooks & Dunn is so exciting,” said Maddie Marlow. We really grew up on Country music, and these sorts of things mean so much to us. To be part of that tradition is, well, pretty incredible.”
“And it’s awesome being nominated with so many people in the New Vocal Duo or Group category who are part of the new wave in country music,” added Taylor Dye. “Not just the past, but being part of the future makes us feel like we’re part of a pretty great tradition.”
In addition to their ACM nominations, Maddie & Tae had another strong showing on the Nashville Scene Country Music Critics’ Poll. Having seen “Girl In A Country Song” top the poll as 2015’s Single of the Year, START HERE made the Top 10 Albums. In other categories, their brand new “Shut Up & Fish” landed at #16 on the Singles list, #3 on New Acts and #2 in Duo and Group.
“Those critics are the ones who judge the music,” Tae said. “They say what’s good and what isn’t. While we can’t make our music for them, it feels good when songs you believe in connect with people who see and hear everything across genres.”
Maddie continued, “the idea of loving the music is to see it go places you wouldn’t expect. As songwriters, we’re trying to be honest and real; when you’re on lists with Dwight Yoakam or Sturgill Simpson, it’s a whole other kind of recognition – and we’re honored by it.”
