Laura Nyro

Laura Nyro (1947-1997) was one of the most remarkable popular music artists of the late 20th century—a pioneering singer-songwriter whose songs were beloved both in their original performances and in hit cover versions by Barbra Streisand, the 5th Dimension, Three Dog Night, and Blood, Sweat & Tears. Nyro had two audiences: a cult following that adored her high-priestess persona and whisper-to-a-scream vocals, and mainstream music fans who might have been unaware of Nyro herself but happily sung along with “Wedding Bell Blues,” “Stoney End,” “Eli’s Comin'” and “And When I Die.” Nyro’s influence is cited by a wide range of famous fans, from Todd Rundgren and Rickie Lee Jones to Jenny Lewis and Fiona Apple.

Did you know?

The 5th Dimension scored five Top 40 hits with Laura Nyro compositions, including “Stoned Soul Picnic” and “Wedding Bell Blues”
Todd Rundgren’s song “Baby Let’s Swing” references Laura Nyro, who he cites as a major influence
Although she penned many hits for others, Laura Nyro’s only chart single as an artist is a cover of Goffin & King’s “Up on the Roof”