Sonya Stead  |   Crystal Richardson  |  Katie Springer  |  Sandy Whitley

Sweet Potato Pie Band History

Sonya Stead

Sonya grew up listening to country music greats Dolly Parton, Barbara Mandrell and Johnny Cash. One of her favorite childhood memories was singing with her daddy as he played his guitar. “We didn’t know many songs back then so we just sang the same ones over and over again!”

During high school, Sonya played piano and directed music for her local church. She was an award winning athlete who earned a basketball scholarship to UNCW. She graduated as a business major and has since owned/operated several successful businesses.

After the birth of her first child, music began calling again, so she borrowed her dad’s guitar and taught herself to play. Several years later she began writing music and has penned over twenty songs for the band. Sonya's unique writing style encompasses elements of country, bluegrass and gospel. Her writing credits include jingles, hymns, an outdoor drama and her own musical comedy.

Sonya helped form the band in 2000 along with Penny Oman and Angela Murphy. She now stands as the only original band member. The band has been a
dream come true for this North Carolina native. Her vision and drive has
helped create one of the most entertaining acts on the circuit.

She is a wife, mom, business owner, and coach. When she has time, she still enjoys a good game of basketball. Sonya is grateful for a supportive husband and family, who give her room to follow her dreams. Her personal motto: “Anything is possible, so let’s make it happen!”