About Lydia

Lydia Hamby brings a fresh energy to bluegrass music as a vocalist, mandolinist, and songwriter. Her debut single, "The Cards You've Been Dealt," featuring Tim Stafford, has garnered significant attention on several airplay charts, and she plans to independently release more original music soon. As a bandleader, she has performed at notable festivals including The Vine Grove Bluegrass Festival and The NC State Bluegrass Festival, while also gracing iconic venues such as Randy Woods Pickin Parlor and The Down Home.

Lydia began playing music at the age of just four years old. Her musical foundation of classical piano and church music evolved into a deep love for bluegrass during time at East Tennessee State University in the Bluegrass, Old-Time, and Roots Music program. There, she honed her craft under industry veterans like Tim Stafford, Mike Compton, and Dan Boner. Lydia toured with the ETSU Bluegrass Pride Band for two years, giving her the opportunity to collaborate with artists like Becky Buller and Rhonda Vincent, and playing music with her incredible college musician friends. Currently pursuing a master's degree in Appalachian Studies, Lydia channels her musical interests into research on gender dynamics in bluegrass, as well as roots music pedagogy.

With a growing repertoire of original music and an unwavering dedication to her craft, Lydia continues to captivate audiences while carving out her unique place in the bluegrass community.