Lauren Pritchard
Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, talent from all the over the world would flock to the United States in an attempt to “make it big”. Actors, models and musicians would not have been accomplished without the likes of Hollywood and New York, where they could work as a waitress in a sleazy diner during the day while doing what they loved at night, waiting for their big break. But oh, how times have changed. The United Kingdom, home of music mogul Simon Cowell and his entourage, is finally getting the recognition it deserves in the music industry; so much so that there has been a recent influx of American musicians heading to London to get their big break. One such musician is newcomer Lauren Pritchard, who has spent her summer on the Island Life Tour (ridding us of stereotypical views of working in a diner whilst trying to pursue a career in music), and whose debut album, Wasted in Jackson, was released on October 25th.
“The UK is so much older than America, and is so rooted in itself and its traditions and that is never broken. I love that.” Lauren certainly has strong feelings about the UK, and therefore it is not suprising that she chose to uproot herself, and her life, and head to London to kick-start her career. Not that her decision to become a singer was an impulsive one; Miss Pritchard grew up in Tennessee (home to musical legends Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley and Otis Redding) and appeared onstage in the Broadway version of Spring Awakening, playing Ilse. Lauren Pritchard had music running through her veins, and was more than willing to share it. Her highlights of the year include some of the biggest venues in the United Kingdom; “We got the play the Glasgow Concert Hall opening for Sharleen Spiteri this summer, that was amazing! And Glastonbury & Latitude festivals”.
Her debut album has been a long time coming for her devoted fans. Speaking of the writing process, (and of course, as any musician worth their salt would, she wrote each song herself) Lauren explains “It was a much needed process of penning down my real thoughts. Not just what I thought people would want to hear. I didn't mind saying things that blunt and truthful. And Eg White (the producer) and I had a blast in the studio playing all the instruments and composing the songs to what we'd enjoy. I loved every minute of it because I got the chance to make the album I wanted”. Clearly devoted to each song, does she have a favourite? “My favourite track is "Try A Little Harder" because it's about seeing beyond the outer surface and helping out. It's always meant a lot to me.”
Lauren has made a name for herself through working alongside acts who are already well established. She has supported the likes of Paul Weller and James Morrison earlier in the year, both of which are experiences which she has cherished. “They are both ace artists”, she says, before listing other musical influences such as Eminem, Billy Joel, Marvin Gaye and Alanis Morrisette; a real mixed bag of music, which might explain how her own music is indescribably non-generic. A dash of country, rock, pop and soul come together in her remarkable medleys which are sure to make her a household name within the next twelve months. She plans to continue touring now that her album has been released, and has hopes to take her music back home with her and tour the States. But for the meantime, she is our gem living in the UK and sharing her voice with the willing public. We are certainly lucky that she brought her music across the Atlantic and to our stages. But is there anything she misses about home? “I miss my family and friends…I miss driving. I miss the food!” And with that, we have a true American who has blessed the UK with her presence and her music.
© Kerrie Body
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