Laurie Wheeler

Laurie Wheeler is emerging as a new force and style among modern female vocalists. A veteran of jazz for over 20 years, her natural vocal ability landed her the lead singer position in the vocal groups “Footprints” and "VocalPoint.” She now fronts her highly successful jazz vocal trio “Nash deVille.”

On the 67th Annual DownBeat Reader’s Poll Laurie was named number 7 Female Singer and number 10 Female Singer on the 68th Annual DownBeat Reader’s Poll. Her jazz vocal trio "Nash deVille" was also ranked 4 in the 68th Annual Reader's Poll in the Jazz Vocal Group category.

Laurie has performed with Louis Bellson, Buddy DeFranco, Charlie Byrd, Bobby Peterson, and most recently with mentors and friends, Michael McDonald and Larry Carlton. She has been successful with two previously released recordings on her independent label, Land of Waz, they are Laurie Wheeler, From the Land of Dreams, and Laurie Wheeler, Twisted.

Laurie’s first release, From the Land of Dreams, is an eclectic collection of songs drawn from an American heritage, showcasing a compelling variety of music including Jazz, R&B, Cajun, and Country. Laurie sings each song with a style and grace that mesmerizes the listener.

On her second recording, Twisted, the intimacy of live jazz shines through with Bobby Peterson on piano and Keith Boyles on Bass. New versions of old standards emerge as these three musicians articulate swing, bop, and ballads with ease.

Laurie's third recording was with her jazz vocal trio Nash deVille. This trio of voices belong to Laurie, her husband and Guitarist Rick Wheeler and cool cat Curt Bol. With Randy Smith on Bass, and Ron Krasinski on Drums, Nash deVille released their first recording "Things Ain’t What They Used To Be," on Summit Records. This recording is a swing lover’s dream with tight vocal harmonies, plenty of vocalese, be-bop scats, impressive arrangements, and also includes guest artists Larry Carlton and Kirk Whalum. (Both appear courtesy of Warner Brothers)

Laurie, Rick, and Curt teamed up with local jazz singer/songwriter Benita Hill to provide lush background vocals for William Shatner's hilarious "Familiar Love" from his "Has Been" CD produced by Ben Folds.

Last year Laurie was a featured guest artist on Mark Douthit's new Christmas CD, "December Morning." She performs Horace Silver's "Peace" adding original lyrics, and "Christmas Time is Here."

Laurie's 4th CD, Twilight, is her best work to date and finds her firmly planted among the top jazz vocalists in the world. It features Rhythm Arrangements by Larry Carlton and hosts a world-class group of musicians that bring the standard gems and original works to life. Recorded by the great LA engineer Csaba Petocz, the sound quality is as superb as the musicianship.

Laurie resides in Franklin, TN. She performs regularly and works as a studio musician, songwriter, and recording artist. She also devotes much of her time helping young, aspiring musicians develop their talents.

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