The Longest Shortest Time

EPISODE #185: When the Family Band Isn’t Your Thing

Suzzy, Terre and Maggie Roche grew up singing hymns in the backseat of their parent’s car. They’d always had a knack for harmony. So when the three sisters were scraping by, young and broke living in 1970s Greenwich Village, they started singing Christmas carols on the streets for cash. It worked.

Soon, the three sisters made a self-titled record as The Roches. Reviewers described the sisters’ harmonies as otherworldly, like their own secret language. Some said listening to The Roches sing sounds like what being in a family feels like.

As the band’s career started to take off, the youngest sister, Suzzy Roche, got pregnant. Her boyfriend at the time was another folk artist, Loudon Wainwright III. Their daughter – the ultimate love child – Lucy Wainwright Roche was born.

Growing up on tour with The Roches, would Lucy decide to follow in her parents’ footsteps? Or, would Lucy find another calling?

Tune in to hear Suzzy and Lucy share their story with us live in studio. Does the family who sings together stick together?

Lucy’s new album is called Little Beast. With her mom Suzzy, she’s recorded two fantastic albums. Visit her website for her upcoming tour dates, some even include her mom and dad.