Biography

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,” and recently was named the #7 Female Singer on the 67th Annual DownBeat Reader’s Poll. 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. This menagerie of musical styles is a work of art 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 is 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 recently finished their first recording entitled, "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's 4th CD, Twilight, is her best work to date and will undoubtedly move her into the the top group of 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 matches the musicianship.

Laurie resides in Leipers Fork, TN. She performs regularly with her jazz vocal trio Nash deVille and works as a studio musician, songwriter, and recording artist. She also devotes much of her time helping young, aspiring musicians develop their talents.

Laurie Wheeler has been voted one of the top ten Jazz Vocalists in the DownBeat Reader's Poll two years in a row.

“Laurie Wheeler will blow you away!” ~Michael McDonald

“Laurie Wheeler puts the spang in my dang-a-lang” ~Bruce Hornsby

“Laurie Wheeler is the new great talent in jazz vocals.” ~Louis Bellson

“Laurie Wheeler could be our next star jazz vocalist!” ~Larry Carlton

“Beautiful tones in the center of each pitch with plenty of chops to spare.”
~Barbara Estes, The Tennessean, Nashville, TN