LP

LP – Life, Career, and Memorable Music

LP (born Laura Pergolizzi on March 18, 1981) is an American singer-songwriter celebrated for her powerful voice, emotive songwriting, and hits like “Lost on You.” Discover her biography, musical journey, influences, and quotes.

Introduction

LP (pronounced “Ell-Pee”) is the stage name of American musician Laura Pergolizzi, born March 18, 1981. With a distinctive voice that blends grit and clarity, LP has built a reputation not only as a recording artist but as a prolific songwriter for other stars. While she took many years to break through as a solo act, her perseverance and unique musical identity have made her an international presence.

Her story is one of navigating industry setbacks, writing for others while nurturing her own creative voice, and eventually finding resonance across global audiences. In the age of streaming and cross-genre music, LP’s journey offers insight into what it means to be an artist on one’s own terms.

Early Life and Family

Laura Pergolizzi was born on Long Island, New York, in Huntington Station, to a family of Italian and Irish descent.

She attended Walt Whitman High School, graduating around 1996.

In interviews, LP has described developing an early relationship with music and performance, though the path to recognition would be long and winding.

Musical Beginnings & Breakthroughs

Early Steps and Debut Albums

LP’s earliest exposure came in 1998, when David Lowery (of the band Cracker) discovered her performing and included her vocals on a hidden track called “Cinderella” in their album Gentleman’s Blues. Heart-Shaped Scar, released in 2001 on Koch Records.

Her second album, Suburban Sprawl & Alcohol, came out in 2004 on Lightswitch Records, with collaborators such as Linda Perry involved. Though critically appreciated, the record did not achieve major commercial success.

During these years, LP also wrote and co-wrote for other artists, gradually building a reputation behind the scenes.

Songwriting for Others

While her solo career struggled to break through, LP found success as a songwriter. In 2010, she co-wrote “Cheers (Drink to That)” for Rihanna, incorporating a vocal sample from Avril Lavigne’s I’m With You. Christina Aguilera, Backstreet Boys, Leona Lewis, Mylène Farmer, Céline Dion, and others.

Her success as a songwriter gave her both financial backing and industry credibility—and helped her refine her craft.

Rising as a Solo Artist

In 2011, LP signed with Warner Bros. Records. “Into the Wild” was used in a national Citibank advertisement, giving her solo work greater exposure. Into the Wild: Live at EastWest Studios, a live EP.

Her third studio album, Forever for Now, arrived in 2014 and included singles like “Night Like This” and “Someday.”

The breakthrough came in 2015–2016 with Lost on You, and the single “Muddy Waters” preceding it. “Lost on You” became an international hit, topping charts in many countries and significantly expanding her fan base abroad.

Subsequent albums include Heart to Mouth (released December 7, 2018)

Musical Style, Themes & Strengths

• Vocal Signature: LP’s voice is often praised for its raw clarity, emotive rasp, and wide range.

• Genre Blending: Her work melds elements of pop, rock, folk, and indie sensibilities.

• Emotional Honesty: Many songs are introspective, dealing with loss, love, self-discovery, and longing.

• Strong Melodic Sense: Even when writing for others, LP shows sensitivity to hooks and emotional arcs in melody.

• Persistence as an Artist: One of LP’s hallmarks is refusing to give up—staying active, composing for others, and pushing her solo career forward despite early inertia.

Legacy and Impact

• International Reach: Lost on You became a breakout hit in Europe, Asia, and beyond, turning LP from a behind-the-scenes songwriter into a global solo act.

• Songwriter Credibility: Her respecting name in the industry is backed by solid track record of hits for major artists.

• Representation & Identity: LP is openly lesbian, and has spoken about gender neutrality and the fluidity of pronouns (in recent years expressing openness to they/them). She has become a figure of visibility in LGBTQ+ music communities.

• Artistic Integrity: LP is often held up as an example of an artist who prioritized authenticity over chasing commercial trends.

• Inspiring Persistence: For many emerging artists, her story underscores the idea that success may come late, but perseverance and belief in one’s voice can pay off.

Notable Quotes & Perspectives

While LP is less quoted in the style of aphorisms, several statements reflect her artistic philosophy:

• On expressing emotion in music:

  She named Heart to Mouth to reflect how she feels a “direct line from my heart to my mouth” when writing melodies.

• On identity and pronouns:

  In interviews LP has expressed that she’s comfortable being referred to by “she/her” but is transitioning toward using they/them, feeling it better aligns with her identity.

• On visibility and sexuality:

  She once said: “It’s not important to prove myself as a lesbian. But nevertheless visibility is important.”

These glimpses show LP’s sensitivity to identity, emotion, and the alchemy of expression through music.

Lessons from LP’s Journey

1. Multiple paths to success
   LP illustrates that you can make your mark behind the scenes (as a songwriter) even before stepping fully into the limelight.

2. Perseverance is key
   Her early albums didn’t break through—but she kept evolving, writing, collaborating, and finally found resonance decades later.

3. Authenticity over conformity
   LP’s willingness to bring her full self—including explorations of gender and orientation—fortified her connection with listeners.

4. Be patient with your timing
   Success may arrive later than hoped; in LP’s case, her greatest recognition came in her mid-30s.

5. Writing for others can be a bridge, not a detour
   Many artists might see writing for others as a deviation; LP used it as both sustenance and growth for her own voice.

Conclusion

LP’s story is a rich tapestry of artistry, resilience, and identity. From a Long Island upbringing to writing hits for global superstars, to eventually breaking out as a solo artist whose voice resonates with millions—her journey shows that true musical impact is not always immediate, and that staying true to one’s voice matters.