Laura Nyro, American singer-songwriter and pianist (b. 1947)
Laura Nyro (pronounced NEER-oh, born Laura Nigro on October 18, 1947, her life spanning until April 8, 1997) was a truly exceptional American songwriter, singer, and pianist. Her singular artistic vision profoundly influenced the vibrant music scene of the late 1960s and early 1970s, establishing her as an artist who blended sophisticated melodies with intensely personal, poetic lyricism.
A Trailblazing Artist and Songwriter
While Laura Nyro may not have been a ubiquitous household name during her active recording career, she garnered significant critical acclaim for her deeply original solo works. Albums such as Eli and the Thirteenth Confession (1968) and New York Tendaberry (1969) are widely celebrated as masterpieces, showcasing her innovative fusion of pop, jazz, soul, gospel, and folk elements. These records were lauded for their intricate musical arrangements, introspective lyrics that delved into themes of love, urban life, and spirituality, and her intensely personal, often raw, narrative style. It was this distinctive approach that resonated deeply with critics and a dedicated following, even as her compositions found broader commercial success through other artists.
A Distinctive Voice and Profound Influence
Nyro’s artistic signature was further defined by her compelling vocal style. Blessed with a remarkable 3-octave mezzo-soprano range, she navigated effortlessly from tender whispers to powerful, soulful belts, imbuing every note with profound emotion. This strong, emotive delivery became a hallmark of her performances, drawing listeners into the intricate tapestry of her musical world. Her unique genre-blending style, often affectionately termed 'New York Soul,' positioned her as an iconoclast, pushing musical boundaries and resisting easy categorization. Despite the immense admiration she received from fellow musicians during her lifetime – luminaries like Elton John openly expressed their idolization of her work – broader mainstream recognition for Laura Nyro’s artistry largely blossomed posthumously, yet her influence on subsequent generations of artists remains undeniable.
The Hitmaker: Laura Nyro's Songs Through Other Voices
Beyond her critically acclaimed solo recordings, Laura Nyro possessed an extraordinary talent for crafting songs that achieved immense commercial success when interpreted by other artists. This unique duality underscored her standing as both a visionary performer and a prolific, versatile hitmaker. Her compositions became enduring anthems for several prominent groups and vocalists, showcasing the universal appeal and timeless quality of her songwriting.
- The 5th Dimension found unparalleled success with Nyro’s distinctive sound, turning songs like "Blowing Away", "Wedding Bell Blues" (a chart-topping hit), "Stoned Soul Picnic", "Sweet Blindness", and "Save the Country" into major popular successes.
- The poignant and powerful "And When I Die" was famously covered by both the jazz-rock ensemble Blood, Sweat & Tears and the iconic folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, each lending their unique interpretation to the track.
- The infectious rhythm of "Eli's Comin'" resonated widely, notably covered by the rock band Three Dog Night and even reimagined by jazz luminary Maynard Ferguson.
- The legendary vocalist Barbra Streisand embraced Nyro’s material, recording successful versions of "Stoney End", "Time and Love", and "Hands off the Man (Flim Flam Man)".
Interestingly, while celebrated for her original compositions, Nyro’s own best-selling single as a recording artist was her heartfelt interpretation of Carole King’s and Gerry Goffin’s classic, "Up on the Roof," a testament to her unique ability to imbue even familiar material with her unmistakable emotional depth and vocal artistry.
A Lasting Legacy and Posthumous Recognition
The enduring impact of Laura Nyro’s pioneering work was formally acknowledged through significant posthumous honors, cementing her place among music’s most revered figures. In recognition of her unparalleled songwriting contributions, she was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010. Just two years later, her groundbreaking artistry as a performer and composer was further celebrated with her induction into the prestigious Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, solidifying her status as a true innovator whose influence continues to resonate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Laura Nyro
- Who was Laura Nyro?
- Laura Nyro (born Laura Nigro) was an American songwriter, singer, and pianist known for her unique blend of pop, jazz, soul, gospel, and folk, and her deeply emotive vocal style. She penned numerous hits for other artists while also achieving critical acclaim for her own original recordings.
- What was Laura Nyro's musical style?
- Her style was a distinctive fusion often described as 'New York Soul,' characterized by intricate melodies, poetic and introspective lyrics, and a powerful, emotive mezzo-soprano vocal delivery that spanned three octaves.
- Which of Laura Nyro's albums are considered her most significant?
- Her albums Eli and the Thirteenth Confession (1968) and New York Tendaberry (1969) are widely regarded as her masterpieces and received considerable critical acclaim.
- Did other famous artists record Laura Nyro's songs?
- Absolutely. Many prominent artists had major hits with her compositions, including The 5th Dimension ("Wedding Bell Blues", "Stoned Soul Picnic"), Barbra Streisand ("Stoney End"), Blood, Sweat & Tears ("And When I Die"), and Three Dog Night ("Eli's Comin'").
- When was Laura Nyro recognized by major music institutions?
- She received significant posthumous honors, being inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2010 and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012.