Get to Know Abbie Sawyer Before Her Made in the Midwest Performance
March 28, 2025Abbie Sawyer
Abbie Sawyer brings a soulful, grounded, poetic presence to the stage. With a voice that blends warmth and clarity and songs that explore life’s wonder and nuance, her music captures the beauty of the human experience.
As she prepares to share new songs—including music from her upcoming album PERSIMMON—at Made in the Midwest on May 9 at Temple Theater, here’s a closer look at her journey, inspirations, and what this performance means to her.
The Inspiration Behind the Music
Abbie felt the pull toward music from a young age. Singing in choirs throughout childhood offered more than just musical training—it gave her a sense of belonging and connection. That early joy has stayed with her through every stage of life.
Today, she finds meaning in writing songs with friends and sharing them however she can. Her influences span generations and genres, including Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Rumi, Paul Simon, Norah Jones, Aoife O’Donovan, Rickie Lee Jones, Nanci Griffith, David Grisman, Adriene Lenker, I’m With Her, and Billie Holiday.
Defining Her Sound
Abbie’s sound sits comfortably in the world of folk, Americana, and singer-songwriter tradition, marked by soulful vocals and poetic lyrics. It’s music that invites listeners in—thoughtful, gentle, and rich with feeling.
The Influence of the Midwest
The Midwest—and Iowa in particular—has shaped Abbie’s music in both literal and poetic ways. The imagery of the prairie frequently appears in her lyrics, reflecting her deep connection to the landscape.
Just as important are the people and communities that nurtured her musical growth: those who encouraged her to join a touring choir as a child, pushed her to take solos, and welcomed her into bands. “The Midwest is my musical home,” she says.
What Made in the Midwest Means to Her
Being part of the inaugural Made in the Midwest series carries special significance, especially as she celebrates the release of her new album, PERSIMMON, on the same night.
“I’m excited and honored to be included in this inaugural series,” she says. “It feels very special.”
The Power of an Intimate Venue
For Abbie, venues like Temple Theater are essential to the kind of music she makes—music that asks for presence and attention.
“With these new tunes, there is nuance and gentleness that benefits from intentional listening,” she shares. “When the audience can go on that journey together, it compounds the magic of the live show.”
What She Hopes the Audience Takes Away
Abbie hopes her performance leaves audiences feeling alive, connected, and warmed from the inside out.
“I hope they feel warmth in their hearts, lucky to be on the human journey,” she says. “I hope the songs and the energy give them a charge of aliveness and wonder.”
Catch Abbie Sawyer at Made in the Midwest on May 9, and be among the first to experience the heartfelt storytelling of PERSIMMON live. Get your tickets today!