Laura Elizabeth Arabosa Izibor was born in Dublin, Ireland in 1987. She began writing songs at 13, and taught herself to play the piano at 14. Shortly thereafter, she won a song competition held by RTE 2fm, which led to her being signed to Jive Records at 17. Her first deal didn’t work out according to plan, so after label disputes, she moved to New York and signed with Atlantic Records.

Crème Magazine :  Tell us about yourself. How did you get started?

Laura:  In Dublin Ireland, I signed to Steve.  He’s 58, white hair and blue eyes.  I got signed at 17.

Crème Magazine:  Who are you musical influences?

Laura:  Stevie Wonder. Roberta Flack.  I love what Maxwell is doing.  Alicia.  I am a huge fan of Santogold.  Just people with good talent.

Crème Magazine: How has the music scene been for you?

Laura:  I’ve learned a lot.  Grown a lot.  I’m enjoying the hard work and it’s paying off.

Crème Magazine:  You are also a pianist. Any thoughts or apprehension about being compared to Alicia Keys?

Laura:  I’m a light-skinned girl and I play the keys.  There’s no one else.  It’s inevitable.  I was 12 when she came out.  She’s incredible to be compared to.  I’d be compared to Joss Stone if I were white.

Crème Magazine:  What sets you apart from other artists?

Laura:  I’m black and Irish and talented (she says laughing).

Crème Magazine: Who are you looking forward to working with?

Laura: There are no collaborations on this album.  It’s just a clear introduction.  I got people up my sleeve on the next album.  I love sophisticated rappers.  There are creative people I’m really vibing. 

Crème Magazine:  You’ve opened for James Brown, how was the experience?  Did you get to interact with him?

Laura:  I didn’t get to meet him.  I was 17 when I got the call.  I was in geography class.

Crème Magazine:  What’s been your inspiration for this album?

Laura:  Real life, falling in love, friendship.  First album is Laura from Laura.  I wrote all the songs.  It’s organic for me.  It’s important to give my fans something real.  I love connecting with them.  I have a solid great relationship with fans.  It feels so strong.  I have intimate fans.  I want to give them something honest and upfront.

Crème Magazine: Have you had the chance do a lot of live shows? How do you like live shows?

Laura:  I love singing live.  I get to talk to people; to share joy; pain; music.  It’s a really weird, strong connection. Exhilarating.

Crème Magazine:  The king of pop, Michael Jackson, recently passed.  What was his influence on you?

Laura:  It’s hard not to be influenced.  His voice.  He was an amazing pop star.  Amazing.

Crème Magazine:  You’ve had the opportunity to meet some of your musical influences.  Which musical pioneer haven’t you met and would love to meet?

Laura:  I would love to meet Roberta Flack.  I’ve been so blessed to have met so many people already.  But I would really love to meet Roberta Flack.