Laka

Born and raised in Cape Girardeau, MO, Laka grew up singing in a small community Pentecostal church. The energetic self-proclaimed soul singer had performed at a variety of St. Louis venues with an acoustic duo or full band since 2016. Commonly referred to as dynamite, many are surprised by the power that her voice projects.
 
She debuted in her first cabaret at the Blue Strawberry October ‘20 titled “The Music in Me”, her life story through music and went on to perform the show in New York City “. She starred in her first play in October ‘20 “St. Louis Woman”. “Laka is notable for her remarkable versatility as she manages various styles from Jazz, to pop, to gospel, to R&B, to rock n’ roll, with excellent power and presence“ (Snoops Theatre Review).
 
During the pandemic, Laka started recording music.  Her first two R & B/blues singles were released simultaneously “My Baby’s Got Soul” and “I Want My Man”. Laka later released her third single, a country-folk song titled “Keep it to Myself”, written by Mike Lipel.  She continued to write and produce several unreleased tunes.
 
At her debut performance at the Focal Point Jun ‘24, Laka shared all of her original music to rave reviews. With all this activity you might not guess that Laka has a career outside of music. Indeed she is an accomplished dietitian by day and wows crowds at the music venues by night.
 
Keys: Corey Patterson
Percussion: Gabe Bonfili
Guitar: Rick Wagner
Guitar: Mike Lipel
Electric guitar: Leland Crenshaw
Bass: Theodore Brookins