Tonya Wood, known by her stage name Sista T, has carved out an impressive career in the music industry, overcoming obstacles and embracing her diverse musical influences. From her bluegrass roots to her love for rock 'n' roll and powerful female vocalists, Wood's journey has been a testament to her passion and resilience.

Empowering the Local Music Community

Embracing Her Bluegrass Roots

Tonya Wood's musical journey began in a bluegrass family, where she grew up listening and harmonizing with her father and four brothers. While the rest of her family was deeply immersed in the bluegrass genre, Wood found herself drawn to the allure of rock 'n' roll, thanks to the influence of her brother Jeff. She also discovered a fondness for the iconic sounds of the Eagles, introduced to her by her brother Bobby.

Discovering Her Calling

At the age of 17, Wood left home and eventually found herself in Charlotte, where she first sat in with a band called the Megaphonics. It was during this time that she was given the moniker "Sista T" by the band's guitarist, Steve Englar. In the early 1990s, Wood answered an ad in "Creative Loafing" for a background singer, which led her to her first full-time job as a musician, working with one of the original Drifters, bass player Marcel "Tommy" Evans.

Embracing the Spotlight

Wood's career took a significant turn when she was called upon to fill in for a band in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, after their singer quit. This opportunity led to a six-month USO tour in Korea, where she fronted the band and fondly remembers teaching soldiers how to line dance. After her last tour in Korea, Wood decided to move closer to home and took a break from performing to focus on her family, including the birth of her son, Logan.

Mentorship and Collaboration

Wood's return to music was marked by the guidance of two influential mentors, Billy Scott and Marcel Evans, who taught her the importance of understanding the business side of the industry. This knowledge opened her eyes and inspired her to learn more about the music business. Wood's passion for nurturing the local music scene led her to co-host open mic nights at various venues, where she met the members of her current band, Fortune Five, and witnessed the growth of the vibrant music community in Iredell County.

Fostering a Thriving Music Scene

Wood's dedication to the local music scene is evident in her efforts to provide a platform for musicians of all levels of experience. She draws inspiration from Smokey Robinson's comments about the Motown artists' home base, where they could connect and refill their creative cups. Wood aims to emulate this sense of community, creating a space where musicians can come together, support one another, and continue to hone their craft. Her vision is to be the mentor she wished she had when she first started her musical journey, ensuring that the incredible talent in Iredell County is recognized and celebrated.