Interview with Laura Bryna

Bryna is a multi-talented crossover artist who caters to contemporary country and pop audiences across the world. Her most recent successes include the release of “Sweet Revenge” (2019) which scored a Top 10 seat on the Billboard Dance Chart; while her 2020 release, “Stars Are Falling” landed at No. 2 on Dance Music Chart in England, and No. 6 in France and Germany. Bryna’s single, “Make A Wish,” spent 10 consecutive weeks on AOL Billboard’s Most Streamed Download charts.

A heart-felt supporter of our military, Laura was a celebrity spokesperson for the United States Air Guard’s national media campaign; she co-wrote the corresponding theme song “Hometown Heroes.” In addition to her work with the Air Guard, Bryna was the celebrity spokesperson for the National Guard’s Youth Foundation. She also served as a board member on the Make-A-Wish Foundation Mid-Atlantic Chapter.

From time to time, Bryna co-hosts “Golf Talk America” which broadcasts on PGA Tour Radio, Sirius XM and Spotify.

She is currently putting the finishing touches on her children’s Christmas book, titled “The Christmas Tradition”, which will be released simultaneously with her original Christmas tune, “The Christmas Wish.”

Who inspired you to make music?

Oh gosh, I have so many great musical influences.

I love Etta James, Dolly and Elvis. Wynnona and Chris Stapleton are also incredible. All of these artists have their own unique style, in how they interpret a song and deliver it vocally. From the first note, listeners know immediately, it’s their voice singing. It’s an identifiable signature.

What was the inspiration in writing your new/recent single; what is the song about?

I’m a hopeless romantic and I told my producer, Damon Sharpe, we need a love song! I wanted to write a song that people can dance to at their wedding, or play in the background during a proposal. I love all that yummy, mushy stuff! So we started writing some “smush,” and “Body First” is what came out! It’s definitely a very sensual, emotional and intimate song between two people.

What is your creative process like (in both music and writing)?

I enjoy co-writing with songwriters with different styles and backgrounds. Sometimes, we write songs together in person; sometimes by zoom or phone. A song that I co-wrote recently came together over the phone in the Dallas airport while waiting for a flight. The creative process can happen just about anywhere!

How would you describe your style and the music that you create/record/perform?

I have an appreciation for a variety of genres of music–from jazz, blues, Pop, dance and R&B. But, country music has been, and always will be, my first love. My current single, “Body First,” is a little bit country and a little Pop with some blues thrown in… and lots of “smush.” I’m thrilled with how well this song is being received (I’ve received lots of emails and texts.) Thank you, “Bryniacs,” for your continued support and kind words.

What is one message you like to share with your fans?

THANK YOU SO MUCH!! I LOVE YOU ALL TONS!

We have a family group called, The Bryniacs!! It’s a mutual appreciation fan club; everyone is included! We support each other through thick and thin…the good, bad and the ugly. I enjoy chatting with them and sharing stories about our days on my socials.

How do you feel the Internet has impacted the music business?

As with any change in life, the Internet has been both for the good and some not so good. I think during the pandemic the internet was grand to keep in touch; but I really can’t wait to get back out on tour again to see everyone face-to-face and in person. There is nothing like the intimate connection with an audience. It’s magical!

Do you have a ritual of sorts when writing or performing your music?

Or just before taking the stage? I like to spend a few minutes alone and think about how I can touch the audience with my music. I want to make them feel the emotion of the songs I perform…whether it makes them smile, sing along or tear up…I want them to go a musical journey with me.

What lead you to become a music artist and what advice can you give to others aspiring to make it? What makes you confident in your decision?

I started singing when I was a child. My sisters and I would hold concerts in our basement and charge my parents .25 cents to attend. My parents had a jukebox and we would sing and dance to the oldies. I knew what I wanted to do from a very early age.

What is the best advice you’ve been given as it relates to your career?

A teacher once told me, “Never say ‘no’ to an opportunity. You put on a pot a coffee, you stay up all night and learn the part, learn the song, learn the dance, etc. and..never stop learning! There is always something to learn!”

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

I’d like to see more opportunities for independent artists to tour and perform in front of live audiences. Yes, it’s important to put people in seats at a concert, but give new and independent artists an opportunity, a 15-minute slot, to show their talent before a live audience. There are some really great artists out there that need, and deserve, the exposure and experience.

What about your music is unconventional, or unusual, or a standout among other artists/recordings?

Like some of my music heroes, I like to blend different styles into my music…a little blues, a little country, jazz, pop, some R&B..

I like to have a little something for everyone to enjoy.

What sets your music apart? What is unique, or at least uncommon?

Same as above. I like to mix it up and give a little something to everyone to enjoy at the show or on my recordings. For example, I will be releasing a new Christmas song this year; it’s up-tempo and a bit of a throwback.

Has your musical journey had a deliberate direction, or did it simply gradually evolve in whatever direction it found?

I would say my career has been a deliberate approach that has evolved. My career started in country music, changed courses toward Blues and Jazz, then to EDM/Dance (where I had several hits in the US, UK and Europe), and I’m now back to my country roots. I love the song-writing, the lyrics and great melodies of country music. Country music is where my heart is and always will be.

What do you enjoy most about being an artist/performer?

There’s no other feeling like performing before a live audience. There is nothing like it.

What does your music say about you?

My music shares my two biggest passions—my music and my love of people. I love giving back.

What are your overall ambitions as a songwriter/recording artist?

To touch people’s hearts and make them feel something. I want listeners to feel the same passion I feel when I perform.

What has been most challenging aspect of your career?

Getting through the pandemic and not being able to perform live.

Do you ever experience writer’s block, and if so, how do you “break through?”

I think everyone has had writer’s block at one time or another. I usually walk away for little bit and come back to it. But I really love co-writing. I write what I feel, or come up with an idea, and then I share it with other writers. Then…we’re off to write a song.

If you could pass on a nugget of wisdom to the next musical generation, what would it be?

Work hard and NEVER GIVE UP on your passion.

What is the most useless talent you have?

Making animal noises.

If you were to write an autobiography, what would the title be?

Sassy and Classy

You are a new addition to a crayon box. What color would you be and why?

Fluorescent Pink! My home is named “The Pink Palace!”

What would be a good theme song for your life?

“My Way”

What historical figure would you like to see in 21st century life and why?

Grace Kelly; she was such a classy lady with a big heart.