Highlighted by the Local Music Scene

Dixiana is a musical group formed in 1982 by brothers Phil and Mark Lister, along with Monica Carver and Charlie Davis, all from the upstate area of South Carolina. Formerly known as The Country Masters, it was the host band of the “Carolina Country” television program on CBS affiliate WSPA, out of Spartanburg, SC.

Later that year, the band debuted their first nationally released record, “Dixie Anna” on Grand Prize records, of Nashville, TN. The success of the record expanded the band's fan base and created new opportunities outside the upstate SC area. The extensive travel took its toll on the group, resulting in Carver and Davis leaving the group to spend more time with their families.

Upon their departure, the Lister brothers teamed up with Cindy Murphy Orr, Randall Griffith and Colonel Shuford, and in 1986, released another single “Spirit of the Land.” The video for the song featured 1500 people spelling out the words “Thank You” to the farmers across the nation who had sent truckloads of hay to the drought-stricken farmers in the south. The severity of the drought and the video of gratitude, garnered national attention from major news outlets across the country and opened new doors for the group.

Dixiana signed with Sony/Epic records in 1991. Their first self-titled album featured two singles with accompanying videos. “That's What I'm Workin' On Tonight” and the fan favorite “Waitin' for the Deal” which stayed on the charts for 22 weeks. 

Another single and video, “Now You're Talking” from their follow up project with the label was later released. The success of the singles and videos which can now be viewed worldwide on social media platforms then led to large scale touring throughout the United States and Canada, including such prestigious venues as the Roxy in LA, the Landmark and Gold Coast Hotels in Las Vegas, the Spectrum in Philadelphia, numerous venues in Texas such as the Houston Astrodome, Billy Bob's and Farm Aid 5, plus multiple appearances on the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.

The group decided to disband in 1995, and pursue other individual interests. The Lister brothers opened a studio and publishing company on Music Row in Nashville and continued writing and performing.

In June 2023, Dixiana was honored by being inducted into the South Carolina Entertainment and Music Hall Of Fame. Following the induction and renewed interest in the band, the Lister brothers reunited with original band member Monica Carver and guitarist Paul Metz. Both are experienced songwriters, vocalists and musicians who will add their talents to a new blend of Dixana's signature sound, providing fresh, inspiring and memorable new material for all ages.