by Maura Marcellino
It can be difficult to find someone so young with such passion, confidence, drive, and talent. About to turn 19 this month, Camille Lauren, born and raised in the DMV in places such as Prince George and Leesburg, exhibits all that and more. With influences such as Dirty Projectors, Aretha Franklin, Nicki Minaj, and Jay-Z, she knows music very well. Full of multiple talents such as percussion, guitar, writing, vocals, and more, there is just no telling what great things she will accomplish. I had the honor of talking with this brilliant musical prodigy that is sure to take over the industry.
Growing up, she was always very fascinated with making beats with pens. At the age of 15, she enrolled in the School of Rock. Clearly, she made an impression since she was called on to fill in on drums for her teacher for a performance with older musicians and was given a chance to network. Drums are by far her favorite instrument. When asked about specific genres, she immediately answered with rock. From modern to classic (mostly Led Zeppelin and Black Sabbath) to indie, rock is a personal favorite to play.
At the age of 14, Camille went to her first concert (Chris Brown). This experience made her realize just how fun the concert environment can be. That is how she wants her concerts to feel like. Her band Stone Cold have competed and have won Fan Favorite and First Place in different years. Since then, Camille has taught herself guitar and how to produce.
With complete confidence and enthusiasm, Camille said if you were to tell Camille from five years ago that she is where she is today, then she would believe it! Having such multidimensional talents, she has every right to be confident. After watching and listening to her work, I am in total awe of how much she has taught herself and learned in less than four years. Her creative process involves drawing from her personal experience with depression and having a shut-off personality. Listeners should feel as if Camille’s work is a safe space for all.
In her early 2021 release, “Sophie,” Camille creates a haunting, yet sweet tune combining multiple genres and influences. At the end of 2020, she directed, wrote, produced, starred in, and released a music video for “18,” where she can be seen singing, rocking out on the drums, strumming the guitar, and having a fun time. The lyrics represent Camille finally having that sense of freedom that comes with turning 18. Nobody is watching her every move, telling her what to do, and the pure joy on her face during the video is highly contagious.
The music industry is incredible, but it is far from perfect. I asked Camille what she would like to see changed in the industry. For decades, the “conventionally attractive” people have been front and center in the world. Without a doubt in my mind, Camille Lauren is going to change this industry for the better.
Camille has the future on her mind. She hopes to continue her music education, dip into the film and directing industry, and potentially compose a soundtrack for a film or TV show, and travel and live in different places.
One day, she hopes to sell out smaller venues such as DC9 and 9:30 Club, leading to her one day playing venues like Capital One Arena and Madison Square Garden. English musician and producer, Jacob Collier would be a dream collaboration for Camille, along with opening for young and popular artist, Billie Eilish.
Recently, you may have read a news story about the legendary 95-year-old actor, Dick Van Dyke, who announced that he has no plans on retiring. With music, Camille never wants to stop creating since she believes there is always something to create at any time. This is a beautiful mindset.
As for a “Plan B,” there is not one. A backup plan could prevent Camille from truly giving her all to her passions. Another effective mindset to have. Once again, I know Camille Lauren is going to accomplish so many great things, and I am happy that I had the privilege of getting to know her during the early years of her music journey.
The internet has been a good friend. It has allowed Camille to market for herself and has given her access to the ability to grow a community around the world. With a variety of content that includes music videos, covers, tutorials, TikToks, and more, there is something for everyone on her platforms.
Check out some of Camille Lauren’s brilliant work on Instagram and YouTube.
Maura Marcellino is studying business and environmental sustainability at George Mason University. When she is not studying, Maura enjoys listening to music and spending time with friends and family.
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Alchemical Records is a Washington, D.C. based music publication. We cover the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA metro area music scenes, including band interviews, articles about your favorite musicians, new music and concert dates.
