Echoes of LP

Laura Pergolizzi, known by her stage name LP, is an American singer and songwriter from Long Island, New York. Her music career began in 2001 when she moved to Los Angeles to pursue a career as a songwriter. Some of LP’s earliest cuts were for artists like Cher, Rihanna, and the Backstreet Boys.

Her grandfather was a composer, and she grew up being exposed to theatrical productions like The Sound of Music. As a teen, LP started writing songs on guitar and piano, citing influences like Led Zeppelin, Nirvana, and Otis Redding.

After relocating to LA, LP worked multiple jobs while trying to get her music career off the ground. She spent years providing background vocals and co-writing songs for other artists. LP’s songwriting talents were recognized when she co-wrote the Rihanna hit “Cheers (Drink To That)”, which appeared on Rihanna’s 2010 album Loud.

Her Voice and Songwriting Style

LP is known for her powerful, raspy singing voice that contains a raw, emotional quality. Her voice has been described as a “smoky alto” and she is able to belt out full-throated vocals while also being capable of delicate whispers and soft tones.

LP’s lyrics are often deeply introspective and personal, reflecting on relationships, heartbreak, self-doubt, and vulnerabilities. She has a poetic songwriting style and her songs frequently contain metaphors and analogies to convey meaning indirectly. For example, in her hit “Lost on You,” she likens a troubled relationship to being lost in a forest. Her lyrics are evocative, displaying a mastery of imagery and metaphor.

Many music critics have highlighted the honesty and candor in LP’s songwriting, noting that she lays bare her emotions and innermost thoughts. She does not shy away from difficult subject matter in her songs, tackling themes like addiction, self-destruction, and toxic relationships. LP brings an intimacy and raw power to her lyrics by drawing directly from her personal experiences and channeling them into universal themes that resonate with listeners. Overall, her dramatic vocals combined with piercing, introspective lyrics create a compelling musical package.

Early Musical Influences

LP’s musical style was shaped by several key artists and genres in her childhood and adolescence. Growing up on Long Island, she was heavily influenced by classic rock bands like Led Zeppelin and The Who. The powerful vocals and poetic lyrics of Janis Joplin were also an early inspiration for LP.

Her Italian grandfather, who was an opera singer, exposed LP to classical music and opera at a young age. This shaped her wide vocal range and ability to hit high notes. LP also got into punk, alternative, and grunge as a teenager, citing bands like Nirvana as influences. The raw emotional style of Alanis Morissette’s iconic album Jagged Little Pill made a strong impression as well.

LP’s time spent living in New York City in the 2000s immersed her in the city’s vibrant music scene. She gained experience producing pop songs and writing for other artists, helping refine her melodic sensibilities. Throughout her development as an artist, LP absorbed diverse influences ranging from rock and pop to blues and jazz. These collectively shaped her soulful singing style and introspective, poetic lyricism.

Breakthrough Album ‘Lost on You’

LP’s breakthrough came with the release of her third studio album, Lost on You, in 2016. After years of struggling to find mainstream success, this album finally gave LP her big break and introduced her music to a wider global audience.

Lost on You was a major commercial and critical hit, largely thanks to the title track and lead single. “Lost on You” became a sleeper hit after being featured in an episode of the TV show Orange is the New Black. The song steadily climbed charts around the world and has now been certified multi-platinum in several countries.

Other popular singles from the album include “Muddy Waters” and “When We’re High”. But it was the raw emotion and powerful vocal performance on “Lost on You” that left the biggest impression on listeners. The lyrics chronicle the pain of an ended relationship in a way fans connected with deeply.

In total, Lost on You sold over 2 million copies worldwide. It topped charts in countries like Greece, Switzerland, Poland and France. The album earned LP a breakthrough Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album, firmly establishing her as an artist to watch. She had finally found the success she had worked towards for years.

Other Notable Releases

In addition to her breakthrough album Lost on You, LP has released several other acclaimed works over her decades-long career. Some of her most notable releases include:

• Heart-Shaped Scar (2001) – LP’s debut album released on Koch Records, featuring her indie rock/pop sound. Singles included “Love Will Keep You Up All Night” and “Kiss It All Goodbye”.
• Suburban Sprawl & Alcohol (2004) – Her second full-length album with a more polished alt-rock sound and introspective lyrics. The song “Wasted” gained some popularity.
• Forever for Now (2014) – LP’s major label debut with Warner Bros Records, producing singles like “Night Like This” and “Someday”. Showcased her songwriting skills.
• Heart to Mouth (2018) – Her emotional fifth studio album led by the single “Girls Go Wild”. Explored themes of sexuality, relationships, and social commentary.
• Churches (2021) – A pandemic-influenced album with a minimalist production style. Hit single “The One That You Love” displayed LP’s signature raspy vocals.
• Songs from the Garage (2020) – An acoustic EP recorded entirely in LP’s garage during lockdown. Featured stripped-down versions of previous songs.

LP’s eclectic discography shows her evolution as a songwriter and displays her multi-faceted musical talents across different genres. Whether rock, pop, or acoustic, her emotive voice and vulnerable lyrics shine through.

Triumphs and Accomplishments

LP has received significant recognition for her soulful songwriting and powerful voice. Her breakthrough single “Lost on You” off the album Death Valley reached number one on various international charts, going five times platinum in Greece and platinum in Switzerland and Poland. The song ranked among Shazam’s Top 10 Worldwide and earned LP nominations at the MTV EMAs and Telehit Awards.

She won Best International Rock/Alternative Artist at the 2018 Los 40 Music Awards in Spain. At the 2020 Grammys she was nominated for Best Rock Performance for “Shaken.” Her song “One Last Time” off Heart to Mouth topped Billboard’s Dance Club chart and the album itself charted in multiple countries, earning Gold certifications in Poland and Switzerland.

Beyond her musical accolades, LP has made Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list and has been featured in major media outlets like Vogue and Billboard for her distinct singing voice and dynamic stage presence. She continues to earn new fans worldwide with her raw emotional delivery and empowering lyrics.

Her concerts are a Dynamic Showcases of Artistic Expression

LP is renowned for her passionate, dynamic live performances. Her potent voice and poignant delivery shine through during her concerts, captivating audiences around the globe.

On stage, LP exudes an unadulterated, authentic presence. She pours her heart into each song, often closing her eyes as she belts out heartfelt lyrics. Her vocals flawlessly transition from delicate falsetto notes to growling rock choruses. LP accompanies herself on guitar or piano during more intimate numbers, then electrifies the stage with bass or strums acoustic guitar during higher-octane performances.

Fans rave about the cathartic, soul-stirring experience of LP’s shows. She connects with audiences not just through her music, but by sharing inspirational messages and personal anecdotes between songs. LP often leaps into the crowd during concerts, getting up-close and personal with her devoted fans, creating an unforgettable and immersive experience.