At age ten Lori Harris determined to become the next Amy Grant. She began traveling around local churches, singing Amy-covers and accompanying herself surprisingly well, despite the fact that you could barely see her behind the baby grand, and she had awful stage fright.
Life happened, and later training occurred in blues clubs and country bars. Lori’s influences changed into Prince, Sting, Aretha Franklin, Wynonna Judd, Bonnie Raitt… especially Bonnie Raitt. Lori leaned into the blues during her time at university, and while pursuing a songwriting degree, Lori studied the classic singer/songwriters. She forced out stage fright by sitting in with local players at open mic nights, fronting jazz groups and showcasing with country bands across the Midwest.
Now a bride and mom of four, Lori has returned to church. For over a decade, she’s been leading hundreds in contemporary worship regularly, bringing an earthy soul into messages of hope that don’t disappoint.
These latest influences elevate her writing more than ever. “I write what I believe so I can share the wealth. But seeing life through the lens of those country fairs has shaped the way I phrase things. I write music for all kinds of people, wherever they are. I want them to be moved, then to listen and be inspired. I’ve done my job when those walking by are drawn in, saying, “What is that? I want to be part of that.”
Audiences of all kinds enjoy Lori’s intelligent, candid style that delves into the “more” of life, yet meets them where they are. With the 2007 release of a 5-song, self-titled EP and a 2008 release of the full-length A Different Kind, Lori is well on her way to doing what she decided to do way back when she was ten...to the blessing of all who hear and receive the messages inside the songs she sings.