Laura Nyro and Labelle

Laura Nyro (born Laura Nigro, October 18, 1947, New York) was an American singer-songwriter and pianist known for blending soul, pop, jazz and folk. She wrote songs covered by many artists and recorded seminal albums from the late 1960s onward. She died April 8, 1997.

Born October 18, 1947 in New York; parents Louis Nigro (jazz trumpeter and piano tuner) and Gilda Mirsky. Grew up in the Bronx, self-taught on the family Steinway. Sold her first song "And When I Die" at 17 and released her debut "More Than a New Discovery" as a teenager. Major albums include "Eli and the Thirteenth Confession," "New York Tendaberry," and the covers album "Gonna Take a Miracle" (recorded in Philadelphia with producers Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff and backing vocals by Labelle). Died April 8, 1997 of ovarian cancer. Several of her songs were hits for other artists (Peter, Paul & Mary; Blood, Sweat & Tears; The 5th Dimension; Three Dog Night; Barbra Streisand).

A reverent appraisal of Laura Nyro's artistry and of the Gonna Take a Miracle collaboration with Labelle. The reviews trace Nyro's life, major albums, stylistic breadth and her late-career recordings. Emphasis on her piano-based songwriting, soulful delivery and influence on other artists.

For:Fans of classic soul and 1960s-70s singer-songwriters, music historians, listeners of piano-based pop and soul.