Martie Seidel, Martha born Elenor Erwin on October 12th, 1969, in York, Pennsylvania, embarked on her illustrious musical journey prior to the formation of The Chicks in 1989. At the tender age of five, Martie began playing classical violin, laying the foundation for a lifelong passion.
As a teenager, Martie, along with her sister Emily Strayer, were part of a Bluegrass band called "Blue Night Express". This early experience honed their musical skills and fostered a lifelong bond between the siblings.
Martie's family is comprised of three sisters: Julia Erwin, the older sibling, and Emily Strayer, who would later become her musical partner in The Chicks. Martie's younger sister, Emily, is married to singer-songwriter Charlie Robison.
The seeds of The Chicks were sown when Martie and Emily, along with former members Robin Lynn Macy (vocals, guitar) and Laura Lynch (vocals, bass),began performing together. Natalie Maines joined the group in 1995, solidifying the current lineup.
The Chicks have made a significant impact in the music industry, with their incredible vocal and instrumental talents showcased in various projects. One notable example is the TV movie "Dixie Chicks on the Fly" (2000),which primarily featured the group's live performances.
The Chicks have also contributed to several film soundtracks, including the 1999 romantic comedy "Runaway Bride", starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere. The film features two of their songs, one of which, "Ready to Run", was co-written by Martie.
When not busy with music, Martie enjoys shopping, golfing, and bowling, showcasing her diverse interests and hobbies.
