Shepaug Valley High School Alumni

Washington, Connecticut (CT)

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Sadie Dupuis

Lead vocals and guitar in band Speedy Ortiz[9]

What is Sadie Dupuis known for?

Sarah Elizabeth "Sadie" Dupuis, born on July 8, 1988, is an American musician renowned as the guitarist, lead vocalist, and lyricist for the indie rock band Speedy Ortiz. Known for her exceptional guitar skills, Rolling Stone named her as one of 'The 250 Greatest Guitarists of All Time' in 2023.

Born in Washington, Connecticut, Dupuis realized her attraction towards music at a young age. She received her early education at Shepaug Valley High School in Washington and nurtured her musical interest at Buck's Rock, an educational arts camp. Later, she further explored her penchant for music and writing at esteemed institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and Barnard College, finally earning her MFA in poetry from the University of Massachusetts Amherst.

Her musical journey began in her high school years, and she started gaining recognition with her 2005 song "Sixteen". She established the band, Quilty, in 2006, and later in 2011, she wrote her first song for Speedy Ortiz, "Ka-Prow", while teaching songwriting at Buck's Rock. Speedy Ortiz's first EP, Cop Kicker, was released the same year.

Besides her contribution to the music industry, Dupuis has also published two books of poetry and released two solo albums, Slugger and Haunted Painting, under the name Sad13. Her portrait was featured on the August 2022 cover of The New Yorker.

She's not only confined her talent to her original works but collaborated with numerous artists like Backxwash, Ben Lee, Field Mouse (band), Tracy Bonham, Lushlife, and Eric Slick, to name a few - in different capacities such as a producer, synth player, or guitarist. Additionally, she has also scored music for podcasts including 'My Year in Mensa', 'Ghost Church', 'Unread', and 'Songs in the Key of Death'.

In essence, Dupuis's passion for music, combined with her skill and dedication, has carved an indelible mark on the indie rock genre, cementing her position as one of the greatest guitarists of her time.