A passion for music and a genuine love for children (these are what a kids’ musician is made of). Laura Edwards is inspired by little ones, and she puts that inspiration right back into her music. Having taught music to preschool classes, children’s choirs and special education classes, Laura has a deep understanding of what moves kids - and what gets kids moving.

Born in Athens, Georgia, Laura grew up with two sisters and a brother in the picturesque mountains of Chattanooga, Tennessee. At age 9, while attending Lookout Mountain Elementary School, Laura began learning the guitar and putting on shows for family and friends. Her larger than life personality and undeniable talent were made for making music.

After graduating from Notre Dame High School, Laura went on to the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga. After a whirlwind courtship, she married Steve Edwards in 1980. To this day, Steve is Laura’s biggest fan and supporter, and he was the driving force behind the production of her first CD, “Wild and Crazy School.”

As a young mother, Laura wrote songs and performed for her own four children. Her kids became the perfect sounding board and honest critics, and Laura’s songs and shows became better and better. Laura states that the reason she loves writing music for children is because “…they are energetic, enthusiastic, uninhibited! Making them laugh, sing, move and have fun gives me energy. I just love being around kids. They make me happy.”

Another life experience that gave Laura the desire to write and sing music for children was her stint teaching music and movement to special education classes of all ages. “These children have been an incredible blessing to me and have modeled what unconditional love really is,” Laura says. Music is a proven tool in teaching and communicating with children who have disabilities, and nothing is more fun for any child than a lesson combined with singing and dancing.

Laura has performed her original music at schools, festivals, and parties in Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia. She has also been the keynote speaker and performer at several childcare conferences. Laura’s musical influences range from Elton John (her all-time favorite) to all kinds of folk music and Southern rock. She notes Raffi as her favorite children’s music.

Laura’s first CD, “Wild and Crazy School,” contains nine original songs, two songs with existing music and new lyrics, and five traditional children’s favorites. The first few notes will bring a twinkle to a child’s eye and a twitch to his foot. Most of Laura’s songs have a life lesson as well: eat your vegetables, appreciate your Mom and Dad, be brave and use your imagination are just a few valuable principles that children pick up while dancing and singing to the kid-friendly tunes. Laura is a true talent, and her ability to connect with children of all backgrounds is a joy and a gift.