Maddie and Tae have decided to part ways after spending 15 years together as a country music duo.
“It wasn’t an easy choice, and honestly, it feels heartbreaking,” Tae, 30, shared. “This has been my dream since forever.”
Maddie, also 30, mentioned, “At this point in our lives, it just doesn’t feel right to be doing this together.”
When did Maddie & Tae form their duo?
The duo first crossed paths in 2010 through a vocal coach in Dallas. After high school, they relocated to Nashville to pursue their musical ambitions as a team.
In 2014, the pair hit their first major milestone with “Girl in a Country Song,” which topped the charts. The following year marked the release of their debut album, “Start Here.”
Since then, they have produced four albums and four EPs, earning nominations for 13 CMA Awards, 11 ACM Awards, and 6 CMT Awards.
Reflecting on their journey during a 2021 interview, Maddie and Tae spoke about their evolution since the breakout single. Tae noted, “A lot has changed, but deep down, we’re still the same people. We’re constantly learning how to navigate everything life throws at us. Change is part of the music.”
Maddie added, “What’s happened in the last year is incredible. It’s a blessing to have our voices heard as women in this industry.”
Why did Maddie and Tae decide to split?
In conversation with a magazine, Maddie revealed her intentions to launch a solo career while Tae is focusing on family life.
Tae, along with her husband Josh Kerr, is raising their two young kids, while Maddie is also busy with her son, Forrest.
“It was really tough to come to this decision,” Tae admitted. “Music was always my dream. Meeting Maddie at 15 set the course for everything we wanted to achieve together.”
Yet, both women agreed that balancing motherhood with their careers has proven challenging. They reached the conclusion during a phone call in September.
“Madi asked me where my heart was,” Tae recalled. “And I realized it was at home. She understood, and that was it.”
Tae expressed surprise at how the conversation unfolded, as she had always envisioned a more personal meeting to discuss it.
Nonetheless, they assured fans that this isn’t necessarily the end.
“We’re leaving things open because who knows, we might collaborate again in the future,” Maddie said. “Even if we’re not on this musical journey together, we’ll still be living our lives side by side.”
They also shared an emotional message on social media about the transition.
“Thanks for the support as we step into this bittersweet chapter. We are grateful for everything we’ve built together over the past 12 years and hope you’ll be there to cheer us on as we pursue new dreams.”
What’s next for Maddie and Tae?
Maddie, who has been the main earner for the family, indicated that she is already working on her first solo project, set for release next year.
“It’s got gospel influences mixed with some R&B, which I really love,” she mentioned. “I aim to create music that makes a real impact.”
As for Tae, she has decided to keep her singing to home. “Bath time is my stage,” she joked, mentioning how music fills their household.
That said, Tae remains open to re-entering the music scene one day.
“I’m open to whatever comes my way. I might even get involved in my husband’s projects—it would be a lot of fun.”
