Lauren Briant, a promising singer & songwriter based in Los Angeles, CA, has won the March SingerUniverse “Best Vocalist Of The Month” Competition, for her performance of her song “Sometimes” (which was co-written by Raab Stevenson and Veit Renn). This is one of 10 cuts included on her debut CD Lauren Briant, which she released independently last month (Feb. 2006).
“Sometimes” is an elegant, pop/R&B/AC ballad, which stylistically is a cross between the ballad styles of Mariah Carey and Celine Dion. The recording provides an excellent showcase for Briant’s clear, soulful vocals, and demonstrates her strong vocal range during the choruses. “Sometimes” is skillfully produced by Raab Stevenson and Veit Renn (who is known for his writing/producing work with *NSYNC and the Backstreet Boys).
Briant grew up in Dallas, TX, where she began singing at a very young age. She took vocal and piano lessons early on, and when she was 12, she began performing in local, musical theatre shows. Then during high school, Briant performed in productions of The King And I and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.
In the summer of 2003 (following high school), Briant moved to Los Angeles to further her music and acting career. “I’ve always wanted to do everything I could as a performer, and I knew moving to L.A. would provide me with more opportunities,” explained Briant. Her vocal coach from Dallas, Tom McKinney (whose clients include Mario and Ray J.), had referred her to the L.A.-based agency, Meridian Artists, which has helped her land many gigs. In L.A., Briant has performed in the musical Ernest In Love, and also in a production of Sleeping Beauty.
Lauren Briant's album cover.
It was in 2005 that she made another key connection, when she was introduced to writer/producers Stevenson and Renn. “I went to Orlando to write and record with Raab and Veit in April 2005,” said Briant. “We first got together and wrote five songs, including ‘Sometimes.’ Then Raab and Veit Renn produced ‘Sometimes.’ And last December (2005) I wrote another five songs with Raab for my CD.”
Now with the release of her CD, Briant is starting to attract attention from major labels. She has been working with an independent A&R rep, who has generated label interest. Briant is planning an artist showcase in Atlanta in the coming months. In addition, she is continuing to pursue work as an actress and musical theater performer. “I’m doing everything I can to promote my CD, and to create the best opportunities in all aspects of my career. A lot of things are happening - it’s an exciting time.”
Top Five Vocalists Of The Month
"Best Vocalist Of The Month" Winner
Song Title:
"Sometimes" (pop/R&B).
By:
Performed by Lauren Briant of Los Angeles, CA. Written by Lauren Briant, Veit Renn & Raab Stevenson.
