Lauren Anderson

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Soulful rocker Lauren Anderson brings a powerhouse voice, raw honesty, and fiery stage presence to every performance. Born in Chicago and raised in a home overflowing with music, she absorbed a wide spectrum of influences—Susan Tedeschi, Bonnie Raitt, The Pointer Sisters, Eva Cassidy, Etta James, Joss Stone, Kelly Clarkson, and more.

Though her voice now lives in blues, soul, and rock, Lauren’s roots are deeply classical. She began piano at eight, sang in multiple choirs, and pursued classical voice through high school and college. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in vocal performance from Augustana College, including a transformative summer in Novafeltria, Italy, studying Italian and touring as an opera student. Opera was the original plan—until she discovered she was meant to belt, wail, and testify through soul and blues.

Still, following the advice to choose a “safe” career path, Lauren pursued a Master’s degree in Music Therapy at The University of Kansas. She trained in jails, schools, and hospice settings while also working full-time as a preschool teacher and caregiver for adults with intellectual disabilities. After completing her internship at Whidbey General Hospital in Washington State, she returned to Kansas City to work as a music therapist in a pediatric unit and at a school for at-risk youth. Her master’s thesis explored the use of music therapy to improve respiratory function and quality of life for children with Cystic Fibrosis.

All the while, the fire to perform only grew. She began playing solo gigs, formed a band, and committed to a new path—just in time for a major medical crisis. After developing a blood clot caused by Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, she underwent decompression surgery that removed her first rib. Forced off the stage for six months and facing potential long-term nerve damage, Lauren fought her way back to full recovery—emerging even more determined.

Her debut EP “Do & Hope” arrived in 2014, followed by her first full-length album “Truly Me” in 2015 and two singles recorded at the legendary Ocean Way Studios in 2016. In 2017, Lauren made the leap to Nashville and became a full-time artist.

Her star has been rising ever since. Her 2021 album “Love on the Rocks” debuted at #14 on the Billboard Blues Chart, #4 on Roots Music Report, and #21 on the NACC Blues Chart, earning widespread critical praise. She has opened for powerhouse acts including Beth Hart, Ana Popovic, and Mike Zito, who also appeared on her sophomore album on the fan-favorite track “Back to Chicago.”

Her latest full-length record, “Burn It All Down,” features standout collaborations with Albert Castiglia (“Zombie Blues”) and John Salaway (“Hit the Spot”), further cementing her signature blend of soulful grit and rock power.