ommunity Organizer. Influencer. These are some of the words that describe the artist known as Lavonne Nichols. She truly embodies the term ‘Renaissance Woman.’ FunTimes had the pleasure of speaking with Lavonne to learn about the breadth of her work, her inspirations, new projects and how she found and acted on her purpose with such vigor.
As music is somewhat of an heirloom in Lavonne’s family, her journey continues a legacy passed down to her. She says “My father and many family members are also singers. Music was our form of communication. My father had us create songs for fun.”Her career in music began in the early years of her life. Lavonne tells FunTimes“My first solo at church was when I was five years old. I began voice training at a young age, learned to play several instruments and sang in church throughout primary school. Gradually, people started to take more notice. I was invited to sing at other churches, community events and weddings. I continued to grow as an artist and began getting paid to do what I love. I enjoyed seeing how music touched the soul and it became my profession.”
Lavonne combines her talent for singing and acting through musical theatre, film and more. She gives special insight to her favorite projects thus far:
“I definitely have been stretched as an artist along this journey. One of my favorite experiences was being cast in The Color Purple musical production in Williamstown, New Jersey. Acting in this stage play enhanced my dance skills and helped me tap into my comedic side as an actress. I have always loved The Color Purple film. I was completely in awe of all of the Broadway production’s music. Overall, being surrounded by so many talented actors, singers and dancers was an amazing experience.”
Gracing the Apollo Theatre stage is also one of Lavonne’s most memorable moments thus far: “Another experience I treasure is when I participated in a Haitian Relief Concert at the Apollo Theater. The Apollo Theater is world renowned, and to have my own dressing room, touch the famous wood podium and stand on that stage was unexplainable. My favorite part of that experience was singing one of my favorite songs, “Prayer Away” by Yolanda Adams, with amazing musicians. It was definitely a life-changing experience.
Every experience has allowed me to stretch myself as an artist. I’m grateful for every opportunity that I’ve been given to express myself creatively through so many different entertainment platforms.”
Lavonne says her Christian faith has impacted the shape of her sound, which she describes as “Raspy yet tender, and rich in sonic experience and storytelling.” Her music aims to inspire audiences to see the light at the end of the tunnel. She has an “old school gospel heart” as foundation with R&B and Soul influences. Her art has been inspired by the church and singers like Marian Anderson, CeCe Winans, Yolanda Adams, Michael McDonals and Gladys Knight and more. Lavonne says: “My sound is very transparent. I believe that no matter what I’m singing, people hear the love of God through my voice. They also hear someone who has been through the storm, has survived, and wants to share how they too can come out on the other side.”
Her new single, ‘Trust,’ will be released this fall. This song was inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic and racial injustice and encourages audiences to trust in God.
Lavonne has advice for upcoming singers and artists: “Never give up. I have been singing all of my life. I’ve encountered a lot of twists and turns in this journey. A lot of closed doors. I heard ‘no’ countless times, but I believe that this is my purpose in life so I refuse to give up on it. Some advice I would give to a new artist is to keep pressing through all of the distractions. Be consistent. Absorb all of the knowledge you can about the music industry and take up an instrument so that you can assist in every facet of your music career.”
Thank you Lavonne Nichols for sharing your talents with the world! We are excited to hear your new single. Connect with Lavonne online:
Website: www.lavonnenichols.com
Instagram: @lavonnenichols
Facebook: officialavonnenichols
Twitter: @Songbyrdmusic
Youtube: Lavonne Nichols
Dailymotion: Lavonne Nichols
