“I got fury in my soul, fury’s gonna take me to the glory goal. In my mind I can’t study war no more. Save the people, save the children, save the country”

– Laura Nyro “Save the Country” (1968)

New Orleans, LA – When my friend and I met up for the Laura Nyro Live Tribute at the Jewish Community Center (JCC), she asked, “Do you know who Laura Nyro is?” I replied, “No idea, but I’m here for the vibes.” And vibes there were indeed.

A note from show lead and award winning musician, Alizah, read “There’s a recurring conversation I find myself having with fellow musicians and music lover’s alike. They’ll ask, ‘Who’s your biggest influence?’ And I’ll reply ‘Laura Nyro.’ Each time, with few exceptions, they respond with, ‘Who? Never heard of her.’”

Not knowing what to expect, the show opens with an overview of the life of the mysterious (to me at least) Laura Nyro. Undoubtedly your favorite artists’ favorite artist long before Chappel Roan was born, Nyro’s influence spans Joni Mitchel, Carol King, Kate Bush, Suzanne Vega, Barbara Streisand, Alice Cooper, Bette Midler, Audra McDonald, Kanye West, and so many more. 

What begins after this introduction is a feast for the ears as the live band comprised of Ainsley Matic, Cameron Wick, Rex Gregory, Otto Schrang, Just Another Andy, Michael Sze, Rory Callais, Sirsten, Fitzgerald Barru, Adam Colbenson, and Jimmy Williams begin to play. 

Highly experienced vocalists Alizah, Hannah Kreiger-Benson, Katarina Boudreaux, and Meryl Zimmeran take on the challenging task of performing a fraction of Nyro’s body of work in what felt like flawless wonder. Songs like “Eli’s Coming” and “Been on a Train” rip the listener open and lead us to think. “And When I Die,” and “Stone Soul Picnic” compells the audience to dance but also consider her words.

Said best by Alizah: “Her music is the story of everyone who’s ever lived, and teaches us that all versions of ourselves are worthy to be honored. She proves that Music has no true ruler, and indeed any rule imposed upon it should be broken to reveal what lies beyond. She reminds us that even the most miniscule parts of life have meaning, that there is Joy in having that meaning, and that the meaning itself… is Love.”

I believe that after this show, I am forever changed (and I now want Nyro’s entire works on vinyl). Add me to the list of musicians inspired by Nyro’s storytelling, talent, and legacy. 

I encourage you to look up Laura Nyro and experience her art, because if you weren’t here to experience this transformative show… well, I’m mad you missed it.