Court Yard Hounds emerged as a compelling side project from two-thirds of the legendary country group The Chicks. Founded in 2009 by sisters Martie Maguire and Emily Strayer, the duo provided a creative outlet that showcased Strayer's songwriting and lead vocal talents for the first time, distinct from their work with bandmate Natalie Maines. Hailing from Austin, Texas, the accomplished instrumentalists—Maguire on fiddle, mandolin, and vocals, and Strayer on banjo, dobro, guitar, and vocals—crafted a sound that blended their country roots with folk and Americana influences.

The duo's self-titled debut album, "Court Yard Hounds," was released on May 4, 2010, through Columbia Records. The project was born during a period of hiatus for The Chicks, allowing the sisters to explore more personal songwriting. The album was a commercial success, debuting at number seven on the Billboard 200 chart with first-week sales of 61,000 copies. It ultimately sold approximately 825,000 copies in the United States, affirming the duo's ability to connect with audiences independently. The record featured contributions from notable musicians including guitarist Martin Strayer and singer Jakob Dylan.

Following their debut, Court Yard Hounds returned with a second album, "Amelita," in 2013. This collection continued to highlight Strayer's reflective songwriting and the duo's intricate musical harmonies, further establishing their identity separate from The Chicks. While the project never reached the monumental commercial heights of their work with The Chicks, it was critically praised for its craftsmanship and emotional depth. The duo performed select tours and television appearances to support both albums, offering fans a more intimate look at the sisters' artistic partnership.

The activity of Court Yard Hounds naturally subsided as The Chicks resumed touring and recording together in the mid-2010s, culminating in the group's major return with the album "Gaslighter" in 2020. Court Yard Hounds remains a significant chapter in the careers of Maguire and Strayer, showcasing their versatility and depth as artists beyond the framework of their iconic band. The duo's recordings stand as a testament to their enduring musical bond and their individual talents as songwriters and performers.