This marked Aldridge’s inaugural nomination in this prestigious category, and her first win, where she bested previous IBMA “Female Vocalist” winners Dale Ann Bradley and Amanda Smith, as well as first-time nominees Sierra Hull and Molly Tuttle, both of which did not go home empty handed. Hull was named IBMA “Mandolin Player of the Year,” while Tuttle won IBMA “Guitar Player of the Year,” thus becoming the first female artist to ever win this honor.
Her husband, Darin Aldridge, took home the 2017 “Mentor Award” (Momentum Award) on behalf of the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA).
In a moving Facebook post, Aldridge revealed that bluegrass has changed her life in multiple ways, with many great friendships, experiences, opportunities and musical influences. She went on to thank her entire team of people that made this milestone possible, and she expressed how blessed her life is.
To learn more about bluegrass duo Darin & Brooke Aldridge, check out their official website, and their Facebook page.