Laura Cheadle is a pop/soul singer-songwriter whose music incorporates funk, blues, and R&B elements. She draws her inspiration from a diverse array of artists, from Bonnie Rait to Sara Bareilles to Bruno Mars. Her musical family also played a large part in her decision to pursue music. The daughter of James Cheadle, an accomplished pianist who made a name for himself playing with Philadelphia International Records artists, Laura has been surrounded by talented musicians her entire life. She’s been touring with her father and her brothers since the age of four. As the Laura Cheadle Family Band, the Cheadles have played stages everywhere from NYC to London, receiving accolades from shows such as the Tri-State Indie Music Awards and appearing on national TV as contestants on COZI TV’s Next Great Family Band. All the while, Laura has been building quite the career for herself as a solo artist. Recently named Musician of the Decade by the Elephant Talk Indie Music Awards, the New Jersey native is gearing up to release her eighth studio album. She dropped the lead single “Everybody Say” on March 5.
“What excites me about “Everybody Say” is that I feel it will appeal to everyone, no matter what genre of music they like. I feel this way because the message is so inspiring and something we all truly need right now.”
Listen to “Everybody Say” – https://soulspazm.ffm.to/everybodysay
Tell us about your new music and the inspiration behind it.
“Everybody Say” was a result of the quarantine, but not in a way that you would expect. Instead of feeling upset that I couldn’t tour, I wanted to bring positivity to myself and those around me. This song literally came to me in a dream. When I woke up, I ran to the recording studio, and my dad (a legendary producer and musician) finished the music within an hour. This song was meant to be, and I know it will bring joy to those who hear it!
What was the songwriting and recording process?
I am very lucky to have a father who is not only an incredible musician but also an amazing producer and recording engineer. When I say this recording process was seamless, I mean it. We were in a bubble of creativity, and now our music bubble is out there in the world, ready to explode full of happiness!
What do you hope your fans/listeners take away with them when they listen to your music?
I want my fans/listeners to embrace positivity. I’ve been on a journey of manifesting, meditating, and staying happy. I am really glad to have put this into my new album. The world sure needs it and is ready to bring on the happy.
When did you first pick up the guitar, and what drew you to that instrument?
I actually picked up the guitar when I was fifteen years old after a breakup and began writing songs. It was as if the guitar was meant to be in my hands. I always played drums, piano, and sang, but guitar is the instrument that best suits me. I use very unique rhythm techniques that I make my own funky sound with. I am overjoyed that I’m an official endorsed artist with Traveler Guitar. This endorsement deal has brought so much to my musical career! Their guitars are a perfect fit for me!
Who are some of your musical influences?
My dad taught me well. I love older music such as Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt. I also love Sara Bareilles, John Mayer, Jason Mraz. I love when I can feel the artist really singing to my soul.
What’s next?
My new album, Shine This Lifetime, coming soon! Stay tuned for the music video for “Everybody Say,” also dropping soon.
Connect with Laura Cheadle
Website | Instagram | @lauracheadle on Facebook and Twitter
