Delnora grew up immersed in a rich musical environment. Her mother, Linda, was a classically trained vocalist, her father, Tim, introduced her to the best of folk, country, bluegrass and rock & roll music. “Mom plays piano,” she said. “Dad plays the guitar and mandolin. And every Reed family event was basically a celebration of the old-time tunes handed down by my Great Grandfather, Henry Reed. His tunes became the backbone of the American Folklife Collection at the Library of Congress. We all played those tunes; whether in tents by New River, or on porches in keeping with tradition. My PaPa Reed (Gene) was probably the most patient in teaching me chord progressions on the guitar. Both sides of my family gave me the musical roots to draw from and the encouragement to grow in my own artistry. They planted me in a varied and wonderful musical garden and I learned early that good music is good music, regardless of genre.”
Delnora says she can’t remember a time when she didn’t want to be a professional singer. “As a matter of fact, my parents, although encouraging, were reserved about throwing me into it as early as I wanted,” she recalled. “I was 11 years old before they allowed me to perform anywhere other than church, family or school events.”
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