Lisa Lauren Smith
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Lisa Lauren Smith

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"What Makes Lisa Lauren Smith "Rock Steady" by Stephanie Penn-Danforth, 8/01/2008"

As a native of Detroit, Michigan Lisa Lauren Smith came to appreciate music at an early age. She was taught how to play classical piano early on which was a gateway to other instruments including Violin and French Horn. By the age 12 Lisa was 1/3 of the R&B/rap group Trak 3. As a teenager Lisa's talents as a vocalist were sought out and she was asked to be the lead singer for the Jazz/R&B/Rock group Galaxy. While attending radio/broadcast school Lisa became a part-time radio personality and morning show producer for one of the top Hip-Hop and R & B radio stations in Detroit. Lisa was later known as radio DJ "Mona Lisa" for Radio One's 102.7 in Detroit, Michigan. Lisa was requested for on-air jingle and station promotions after four months as a part-time radio personality. Fast forward a couple years and you have Rock Steady, a very eclectic album that successfully blends Rock, R&B and Soul for a very impressive debut. Rock Steady includes contributing artists such as guitarist, pop/rock musician, Jesse Johnson, who is also a co-producer on the project. In this interview Lisa opens up about how she began singing, where she pulls her inspiration from and how she puts on such stellar performances.

You went to the Detroit H.S. for Performing Arts, did you sing while you were there?
Briefly, but I was more drawn to the instrumental program and it was there where I can thank my former band director, Mr. Edward Quick for exposing me to French Horn. I also participated in the Symphony Orchestra where I played my violin. I got into D.S.A. as a pianist and unfortunately that program was cancelled due to lack of an instructor. So I was able to really hone my craft in the band and performing with other musicians. I'm very grateful for having gone to D.S.A.

Do you still play instruments or do you just focus on singing?
I still play my violin. I still play the piano. And if someone hands me a horn, I could play that also. But for the most part I'm on my piano and violin which are the instruments that I write a lot of my music on.

Why did you decide to focus on singing versus continuing to play instruments?
It's what I fell into. As a child I began competing and playing the piano in different festivals. Then in high school we were very active with our instruments in marching band, concert band, jazz band and everything else. Coming out of High School, I was hired as singer by a band that was already put together and I sang vocals in the studio. No one really asked me to perform live on my instruments so I never did. Now I'm being asked to add more of my instrumental background into my live performances. Because I feel like it's going to constrict my movement and my presentation to hold an instrument I choose to sing. I might change my mind later on but right now when we put our shows together, I prefer to lead sing.

Your pretty well known for your live performances, How do you prepare for a live show?
I value the opinions of the other musicians that I'm playing with because obviously I'm not the only one on stage putting on a show. I'm always open to see how we can produce a show that's entertaining and makes the people feel good. I always find out who I'm performing for and then I try to relate to that crowd the best way I can. Myself and the musicians that play with me all have different backgrounds as far as style and experience so we try to blend in a little of what we know as artists. And during rehearsals so many ideas come up based on the vibe we feel. We pretty much go with what we know is going to work. Sometimes when we're on stage, we follow what we see the audience enjoying more. If we find that they're enjoying one song, we continue that song to keep them engaged. I'm on stage to entertain the audience.

For those who aren't familiar with you, How would you describe your sound?
It is a blend of R&B and Rock

How do you think being from Detroit influenced your sound?
Oh Gosh! Greatly, there is such an eclectic mix of extremely talented musicians and performers that are right here in Detroit. I always make time to go and support other artists and every time I do that, I find myself being inspired to either add more flavor to my live presentation or courage to be more of myself because so many of them have just chosen to be themselves and it results in people loving and respecting them more than an average artist.

The title of the Album is "Rock Steady", what's the significance of that title?
It's the title that I chose for the first track on the CD. It describes the kind of music that I vibe to. I like music that's Steady with a groove, a vibe, a heartbeat, a soul to it. But on the other hand I love music that's loud and filled with rock guitars and edgy and sometimes chaotic. When you put those sounds together you've got Rock Steady.

Do you think your instrumental background has anything to do with you loving music that's loud and has a lot of elements involved?
Yes, that - Venus Diva Magazine


"The Detroit Festival Of the Arts - Artist Profiles"

Log onto link below:

http://www.detroitfestival.com/08/?page_id=4 - DET Events


"Detroit festival Of the Arts Returns To Midtown - June 8, 2008 Spanning 20 City Blocks And Across 10 Stages"

Contact: Aamira Bussey Bellamy Mary Claire Hathaway
lovio|george|inc lovio|george|inc
313.832.2210 x17 313.832.2210 x13
734.546.1476 (cell) 313.268.2833 (cell)
akb@loviogeorgeinc.com mch@loviogeorgeinc.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DETROIT FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS RETURNS TO MIDTOWN JUNE 6-8, 2008
SPANNING 20 CITY BLOCKS AND ACROSS 10 STAGES
22nd Annual Event Brings International World-Class Art and Entertainers to City’s Cultural Center
with South African Vocalist Miriam Makeba and Other Special Guests
DETROIT (April 29, 2008) – Detroit’s premiere arts and entertainment festival will return to Midtown Detroit June 6-8,
2008 to showcase annual favorites and a variety of new entertainers and artists promising a one-of-a-kind experience for
all generations. More than 300,000 people are expected to attend the 22nd Annual Detroit Festival of the Arts to experience
10 stages and 20 square blocks of art and performances.
This free Festival, organized and produced by the University Cultural Center Association (UCCA) and Wayne State
University, is one of Detroit’s greatest traditions and best-kept secrets. More than 100 international, regional and local
artists will fill the DTE Energy Avenues of Art, a fine Arts and Crafts Market and 10 stages featuring more than 100
performances during the three-day artistic celebration.
“Midtown Detroit is home to the city’s greatest cultural institutions and many aspiring artists, making it the perfect
backdrop for the Festival,” said Susan Mosey, President of UCCA. “We’re excited to bring back favorite acts and
showcase new artists. Our Festival gives the public a chance to see some of the most unique and talented performers and
art pieces in the world set in the backdrop of a vibrant neighborhood where life is truly art.”
Midtown Detroit’s Cultural Center is home to the College for Creative Studies, Charles H. Wright Museum of African
American History, Detroit Historical Museum, Detroit Institute of Arts, Detroit Public Library, Detroit Science Center,
Scarab Club and Wayne State University. During the Festival, many of these institutions proudly present special programs
for festival-goers. With a daytime population of more than 50,000 and hosting two million visitors annually, Midtown has
the largest concentration of cultural, educational and medical institutions in southeast Michigan.
Festival features include:
• Miriam Makeba – Hailed throughout the world as “Mama Africa,” the legendary South African vocalist has received
notoriety for both her music and her outspoken views about apartheid. This year’s festival is one of only two U.S.
appearances this year. Makeba will perform on Sunday, June 8, 2008 at 7:30 p.m. at the MASCO/ Metro Times
Stage.
• Osadia – This Festival favorite is back and ready to magically transform any hairdo into an extravagant "hair
sculpture." The Historical Museum Plaza will serve as a temporary hair salon while Osadia hairdressers work their
magic on audience volunteers.
• Wise Fool New Mexico, a vastly entertaining aerial and stilt movement spectacle that will stretch one’s perception of
the human body and Close Act Visual Theatre are being brought back by popular demand and will feature its XLInsects.
• Tribute to Donald Walden – Presented by the Arts League of Michigan, this tribute will be conducted by Ken Cox
Friday, June 6 at the MASCO/Metro Times Stage. The Detroit Jazz Orchestra will perform with special guests.
• Artists and Sounds from Around the World – Including Chinese-influenced The Orchid Ensemble; the
ska/punk/reggae group Babylon Circus from France; contemporary Slovenian folk-pop artist Brina; South American
singer, Marta Gomez; Tcheka, a Cape Verde singer & guitarist; Chic Gamine and Po’ Girl, hailing from Canada,
distinct voices which span jazz, blues, alternative rock and soul; NYC- based Latin alt-folklorico group Pistolera; and
Acadian music and dance group Grand Derangement from Nova Scotia. Many of these artists will be performing in
the National City Music Café on Kirby.
• National Artists – Raul Malo will blend his Cuban heritage with the pop sounds of the 60’s and the guitar of country
music; The Budos Band mixing funk, afro-beat and soul music; Slavic Soul Party! (New York’s Official #1 Brass
band); and Vagabond Opera.
• Literary and Music Lounge – Featuring Ray McNiece, a poet that has a way with words and a ironic sense of
humor; Thylias Moss, an African American poet, writer and playwright, who has published a number of poetry
collections, children’s books and plays; singer and songwriter Peter Lewis, also founding member of Moby Grape;
and One Ring Zero, a quirk-pop duo from Brooklyn, NY.
• Local Artists – Including funky Blues diva Thornetta Davis; Pop/Rock Diva Lisa Lauren Smith; American Mars, Moonsqualler, Steppin’ In It and many others.
• DTE Energy Avenues of Art – Nearly 100 country-wide juried artists from photographers to sculptures to jewelers
offer their Fine - Bellamy / Hathaway - DET Events


"Press Release"

Contact:

Georgianna Brent
Ambrosia Productions 1.586.362.0085

Devine Taylor
Du North Records
1.615.578.2178

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“Rock Steady”, Debut Album from Emerging Artist, Lisa Lauren Smith

Detroit, MI- The eclectic and talented R & B singer/artist Lisa Lauren Smith has released her critically acclaimed debut album, “Rock Steady”

Lisa Lauren Smith has received positive feedback regarding this album and its appeal to her diverse fan base. Lisa’s album has been described as well produced, earthy, natural, hip and spontaneous. All of these characteristics are what makes this album diverse yet relatable. The sincerity of her lyrics are felt in her refreshingly edgy delivery.

The title “Rock Steady” is reflective of the type of music that Lisa has learned to love and appreciate over the years. “I like music that’s Steady with a groove, a vibe, a heartbeat, a soul to it. But on the other hand I love music that’s loud and filled with rock guitars and edgy and sometimes chaotic”, states Lisa. Rock Steady is in a category of it’s own, every song is a standout and has a story behind it.

As a native of Detroit, Michigan Lisa Lauren Smith came to appreciate music at an early age. She was taught how to play classical piano early on which was a gateway to other instruments including Violin and French Horn. Lisa’s musical influences are present throughout the album.

The release of this labor of hard work comes after three years of singing with local bands and performing hooks for aspiring rap artists. Lisa is professional and endearing which is nicely complimented by her never ending talent.

A live performer of intensity and charisma, Lisa is currently performing at local festivals and venues.

Written: Stephanie Penn Danforth, Contributing Editor – Venus Diva Magazine
- Stephanie Penn Danforth


Discography

Album Debut - Rock Steady
Album Release - Redemption
Available through Itunes and other online stores. Check your search engine for listings. Online streaming for Rock Steady also available through online search.

Photos

Bio

Performing her original songs non-stop since the release of her album debut, Lisa Lauren Smith's deadly combination of raw talent and enormous ambition is sure to make waves in the ever-fluctuating music world. Currently she is writing for her second album and Christian Rock debut “Redemption” and performing regularly in the Midwest area. This year, she has been featured this year in Venus Diva Magazine, “Conversations With Theo” on TV 33 Comcast/88.1 FM, and “A Funk Above The Rest” online radio show and broadcast for her popular single “Rock Steady”. “Rock Steady” has been recently reviewed in The Music Connection Magazine, and is still receiving great ratings amongst her fans and fellow musicians.

Being highly influenced by pop/rock bands of the 80’s, 90’s and now, Lisa Lauren Smith has created a blend of musical composition that, by some, has been described as "On Fire!”. Her vocal arrangements, help cultivate an image all her own and has built an audience that shares her same love and for Pop/Rock/Alternative and Christian Contemporary Styles.

Born April 3 in Detroit, MI, she is the daughter of Earl P Smith, a retired electrician and Barbara Jean Jacobs, a retired music teacher, jazz and opera singer. Having one younger brother, Robert, the two children were exposed to the life of music and live performance at a very young age. Weekends often times brought the babysitter to care for the two, while dad managed mom’s career as a professional jazz and contemporary vocalist. Both children would watch and listen as their mother rehearsed weekly with her band at the local church. It was during that same time when she and her brother would attend Operas and Choral Concerts, where their mother would shine on stage not only as a singer, but an actress as well. These are the influences that she believes caused her to serenade an entire airplane cabin at the age of four. After her unexpected [aisle] performance of the Broadway tune “Tomorrow”, 4 year old Lisa took a bow. “That’s when I knew…”, says the mother of the songstress. Since then, Lisa has grown into becoming one of the versatile vocalists of her city as well as her generation.

A natural born performer, the Detroit native started playing piano at an early age and later moved on to violin and French horn. By age 12, she formed her first group. “Trak 3” consisted of three members, Chinelo Amen-ra as a rapper, Erica Henton who was another rapper in the group and herself, who took the position of being a third rapper, songwriter and singer for the hooks. This was Lisa’s first venture as a recording artist, and still being in grade school, she was the most excited. However, the group eventually dissolved as a result of inexperienced management. Lisa continued singing as a local hire for weddings, funerals and other family events. As a teenager, she attended The Detroit High School for the Fine and Performing Arts, also home to late recording artist Aaliyah, where she was trained in live performance as a musician and an artist.
It was here where she played in Jazz Band, Symphony Band and String Orchestra, under the direction of Edward Quick. Mr. Quick would prepare Lisa and the many others like her for competitive and live performance programs. Lisa, won awards in classical piano, string ensemble, festival and district competition. She also participated in marching band where she traded in her French horn for a mellophone. “Those were the best four years of my life”, she says while reminiscing. As a result of the rigorous 10 hour days required of each student for academic and creative study, Lisa graduated with honors and was ready to begin her career.

Soon after graduation, Lisa became lead singer for "Galaxy", a band whose eclectic mix of Jazz, Hip Hop, R&B turned them into Detroit local favorites among the live band scene. The band’s energy was endorsed by many fans who were the reason they were hired to play at popular Detroit establishments such as Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, The Olympia Restaurant and Hart Plaza just to name a few. Their audience spanned from young hip hop listeners to die hard jazz heads. Their ability to perform tracks by Artists such as Mobb Deep and Jay-Z on live instruments made them a favorite on the 21 and up club scene. As the band grew more and more popular, the group grew more apart. Galaxy eventually went their separate ways to live their own individual lives and Lisa found herself wanting, once again.

In 2003, she packed her belongings, sold her car and used the money for relocation to Los Angeles, California. There, she worked three years singing with local bands, and writing hooks for aspiring rap artists. Lisa grew tired of not having her own original material and began working on her first solo project. “Rock Steady” was born. Now completed, the finished product “Rock Steady” is the sum of the years leading up to her creative ascent with a vibe that is commercial and fun.