Laurette began by performing at open mikes in Whatcom County, Washington. She's an advocate of the format and has quite a history of hosting her own sucessful blues open mikes. She has won a Mayor's Arts award from the Bellingham Arts Commission in recognition of her role developing local blues players and her own musicianship.
Most of Langille's music career has been a dance back and forth between solo acoustic shows and electric blues bands. "Both formats have their different advantages," says Laurette. "When I'm focused on one I usually am in mourning for the other." Her current band is called Rogue Paradise Blues, where her bass and harmonica talents also get a turn on stage.
Although she hasn't seriously pursued recording,(*)Laurette can be heard on a variety of CD compilations: Best of Seattle Blues Vol. 1, Backporch Gossip, Seattle Rhythm & Blues Vol. 1 and A Seamless Connection. "The CD's only happened because the producers and labels put out the effort to have me on them. I owe quite a debt to Kate Hart specifically. She is almost entirely responsible for 3 of the products I appear on. She's been very supportive of me."
What is her most memorable show? Her first performance at the Winthrop Rhythm & Blues Festival. "I played solo between Long John Baldry and Koko Taylor, it was incredible to be up there."
What was the most memorable band she's been in? Kate Hart's Seattle Women in Rhythm & Blues. "The players were always top notch, a vocalist's dream. The women's harmonies were fabulous, soulful and indescribably delicious. I learned a lot on the road with these women, and had some great adventures."
What is her biggest influence? "If you exclude old blues records, it would have to be Daddy Treetops & the Howlin' Tomcats. They are beyond cool and have been my friends, teachers and players for many years."
(photo by Noona Walton copyright 2003, all rights reserved)
