In praise of late bloomers: A few questions for Laiken Love Williams
The list of late bloomers is long: mystery writer Agatha Christie, chef and television personality Julia Child, author Alex Haley, athlete Dyana Nyad. Add Laiken 'Love' Williams, the soul of Savannah's music scene since taking over the karaoke stage at Jerry's Lounge somewhere in the early 2000s. A stint in the Savannah Philharmonic choir led to voice lessons that then led to leading Laiken Love and the Fellowship of Love. Williams is a testament to the Goethe quote, “At the moment of commitment, the entire universe conspires to assist you.”
Savannah Morning News: At what point in your life did you realize I have this voice and I am going to use it for good?
Laiken Williams: "That's a great question! I was very shy about displaying my voice outside of a choir setting. Believe it or not, I discovered my true voice in my late 20s. My true realization came when I started singing, as outreach, for Alzheimer facilities and the cancer institute. That was my true moment of knowing my purpose in music and the capabilities it possesses."
SMN: Do you get stage fright? How do you overcome it? Does it disappear once you are on stage?
LW: "Oh, most definitely! It has evolved over the years but it does creep in when big projects come my way. I'm most nervous when it's time to sing the national anthem. I'm afraid of forgetting the words or singing in the wrong key, lol! The fright wears off once I begin to sing and relax into the song. The key is to find a spot in the room and concentrate on it. I'll tell you a secret: You can tell how nervous I am by how much I laugh during the show."
SMN: How are you able to make such a deep connection with audience members?
LW: "I treat my singing as if I'm reading Shakespeare. I learn the lyrics and convey them into a greater story. Think of it as tasting your favorite dish. How does it smell? What's the texture? What flavors light up your taste buds? How does it make you feel? As a singer, I am telling the story of the song my way and leaving room for the audience to digest it. This process, with a bit of storytelling, makes my job easier to read an audience and create the connection."
SMN: How is your music your ministry?
LW: "Music is my life and has saved my life. Before I considered music, I was in a very dark place in life. As I grew on the scene, so did my healing. I am proof that you can start from less-than-scratch and achieve the impossible. I use music to provide comfort and healing to all who care to listen. I also use music to make a safe space for all including children. Music has a monumental impact on them and the future. In Savannah, my music ministry represents a big welcome into the city. I meet all walks of life who want to enjoy all that Savannah has to offer. Just think of me as the musical welcome committee!"
This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: In praise of late bloomers: A few questions for Laiken Love Williams
