Lauren Davidson got bit by the performing bug at an early age, becoming an already a seasoned professional performer by the age of 10, so the praise this NYC/NJ native has received from the country music community comes as no surprise. Hard work has lead this CMA Artist to opening for some of the biggest names in country music and a recording of the iconic song “Route 66” used in the TV Show “Corvette Nation” that aired on Disney’s The Velocity Channel.
We caught up with Lauren prior to her last show of 2017 – Country Christmas Showdown, Thursday, December 21 at Maxwell’s’ Tavern in Hoboken, NJ. Check out our Q&A below:
CN: For our readers who may not be familiar with you, could you tell us a little bit about yourself?
LD: Hi I’m an Urban Country singer/songwriter from NYC. I’m a little bit country little bit rock and roll
CN: You grew up in NYC – how did you become a fan of country music?
LD: I grew up doing theatre and when I was in college I got cast in a show at Hersey Park, a country music review. The production team is from Nashville and on the first day of rehearsal they gave us a country music lesson that I will never forget. I’ve been a fan ever since.
CN: Being a songwriter, can you tell us a little bit about your songwriting process? Do you pull mostly from personal experiences, experiences of those around you, or elsewhere?
LD: Yes 110 percent. I think when I started writing only a few years ago I wrote only from personal experience or personal emotion. Now I still do that but I have a broader spectrum and am more aware when inspiration hits. I definitely from others experiences but usually only ones I relate to. I think it helps me connect to the songs I’m singing and performing if I can relate.
CN: Which artists – country or not – have you looked up to? Are there any current country artists that you are inspired by?
LD: Ah so many! Obviously as a female in a male dominated industry I am more inspired by other women in the business. Grace Potter, Stevie Nicks/Fleetwood Mac, Carrie Underwood, Maren Morris, Cassadee Pope.
CN: You’ve opened up for some big names in country music – including LOCASH, Old Dominion – and you had an impromptu live duet with Cassadee Pope! What were those experiences like?
LD: Yes I’m so incredibly humbled by the opportunities that have come my way. Cassadee Pope was actually 2 years ago now but the randomness of the duet makes it so special and memorable. And opening for artists has just been one of the best learning experiences and one of the most thrilling performances I’ve encountered
CN: In 2017 you released your single “I’ll Drink to That” and you are currently working on some new material. Can you give us an inside scoop on what to expect next?
LD: Yes I am! I’m so excited! So in between performing last year I spent some time writing and recording and plan to do more of they after the holidays and release new material in early 2018! I’m so excited for this next chapter!
CN: Final show of the year is set for this Thursday at Maxwell’s in Hoboken, NJ for the Country Christmas Showdown with fellow Jersey natives SPINN sharing the bill. Can you tell us what fans are to expect at the show?
LD: The final show of 2017 and I couldn’t be happier to share the stages with so many local NYC/NJ artists that have become a huge part of country music here. There’s definitely going to be some collaborations and duets which I’m so excited about and the show is going to be more of a holiday party and celebration than the typical concert. It’s gonna be a great night brining country artists and fans in NY/NJ together!
CN: Favorite Christmas song to sing?
LD: I honestly don’t have one. But my producer/MD Cristian Castro and I just played rocking around the Christmas tree at NASH-FM for their miracle for the kids radio-thon and that was pretty fun. I like the uptempo songs – they put me in the holiday spirit.
CN: If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?
LD: Fighter. I am strong and determined especially when it comes to my music but I wouldn’t have it any other way!
CN: Do you have any songwriting and/or performing dream collaborations in mind?
LD: I have so many. Any of the artists I’ve listed above would be a dream, so thank you Cassadee for one dream come true. I think I’d cry if I ever got to sing with Billy Joel. He’s a family favorite.
CN: What’s on the horizon for you in 2018?
LD: New music. New shows and lots of fun! Follow along and stay tuned!
For more information Lauren Davidson, visit her website: www.laurendavidsonmusic.com
To purchase tickets to the Country Christmas Showdown at Maxwell’s Tavern on 12/21 – click here.