Theo Lawrence, the Austin, Texas-based French Canadian artist, has carved out a distinct niche in the modern country landscape. With a vocal delivery reminiscent of Charlie Rich and a commitment to the timeless songcraft of Ray Price, Lawrence represents a bridge between the golden era of country music and contemporary sensibilities.
Though his musical journey began in bands that steered clear of the genre, Lawrence eventually found his true calling after meeting Thibault Ripault. This partnership allowed him to fully embrace his singer-songwriter instincts, leading to the creation of acclaimed LPs like Chérie and Pickin’ & Singin’. His most recent project, Havin’ A Talk, recorded alongside Melissa Carper, has been hailed as a 21st-century evolution of the classic, collaborative spirit once embodied by legends like Bobbie Gentry and Glen Campbell.
During this year’s South by Southwest festival, Lawrence invited us into his home for an intimate morning of music and conversation. The session captures the raw, worn-in quality that defines his sound. Following a separate performance for a Paste Session, Lawrence recorded two poignant covers for Daytrotter: Ben E. King’s “Young Boy Blues” and Joe South’s “Walk A Mile In My Shoes.”
These tracks serve as a testament to his ability to inhabit classic material while maintaining his own artistic identity. Whether he is channeling the heartache of a blues standard or the social consciousness of a country classic, Lawrence remains one of the most compelling voices in the current roots music scene.
