What do you get when you combine vocal harmonies, classical string instruments, 90s pop-inspired melodies and a sprinkle of comedy? You get Honey Magpie, a Chapel Hill based folk pop duo fronted by Rachael Hurwitz (guitar) and Pippa Hoover (cello). The duo is locally known for songs like “Ugly Duckling” which features a comedic twist on the the classic fairytale as well as “Lost in the Woods” which has had full audiences howling like wolves. Recently, Pippa and Rachael have incorporated more comedy into their set. They reworked and revamped Rachael’s viral parody of Alanis Morissette’s “Ironic” to include harmonies and a full band. They have also performed Pippa’s pop punk song about finding love at the Cat Cafe. They have been guests on WUNC’s The State of Things and have had their music covered by Pop Matters and Indy Weekly. The band has completed multiple regional tours and plans to continue doing so in 2026.
SHORT BIO
Honey Magpie is an indie-folk band from Chapel Hill, NC whose sound is both traditional and modern, blending classical string instruments and harmonies with pop, rock, and indie influences.
PHOTOS & LOGOS
Click the images to view or download full-size versions.
Check out our segment on “The State of Things” with Frank Stasio!
Read about our single premiere on Pop Matters!
WHAT OUR FANS SAY
“Since forming in 2014, the North Carolina band have garnered national interest for their often nature-driven, relatable, and roots-driven songwriting. The group’s single, “Undecided”, depicts the art of taking one’s time and sorting through indecision to find an answer. Musically, it follows a progressive pop structure with indelible hooks delivered sweetly with an earnest lead vocal. A hearty string section keeps the song rooted in the realm of Honey Magpie’s indie folk.” – Jonathan Frahm, Pop Matters
“Love your band! I love your song stories, and the subtleties and nuances in your music.” – Marguerite C.
“The way you tell stories with your songs and instruments requires a lot of talent and skill. Looking forward to hearing you again.” – Terrence B.
“The first band that I saw perform [at the festival] was Honey Magpie, and when I say I went into a nice, comfy zen-like state, I’m not lying. The voices of this indie/folk band probably could have lulled me to sleep if I hadn’t been so bewitched by their lyrics.” – Rebecca Fiely for the Daily Tar Heel
“Chapel Hill’s sweet and understated folk-pop act, Honey Magpie has an emotional pluck that sneaks in undetected until tears and gooseflesh abound.” – Honeysuckle Tea House
“Honey Magpie brought some sweet harmonies to the [Raleigh] Plaza and got our toes tapping.” – Jenkins for Steep In
“Honey Magpie is an indie/folk band sewing a patchwork quilt of warm and folksy three-part harmonies, complex yet catchy string parts, and sweetly layered piano riffs into a flurry of elegant sounds.” – Shakori Hills Grassroots Festival
“Y’all are a good bunch of coconuts.” – Jerry Brown of the Rubber Room Studio
BOOKING
For more information, please use our contact form or email booking [at] honeymagpie [dot] com.