photography by CALHOUN PRODUCTIONS
In the heart of Albemarle, North Carolina, a young girl’s love affair with music began amidst the familiar tunes of her parents’ neon Wurlitzer jukebox. From the legendary sounds of Aerosmith and Trisha Yearwood to the infectious beats of Little Richard and Shania Twain, Pressley Laton’s upbringing was a symphony of diverse influences that would shape her musical destiny.
From singing in the church choir to being inspired by Kellie Pickler’s rise on American Idol, Pressley’s journey through music has been a colorful one. Her passion for performance blossomed during high school, where she sought out local singing competitions. A chance encounter at a karaoke night during her senior year at Appalachian State University (App State) altered her plans, leading her to stay in Boone after graduation. This decision opened doors to a career in the university’s Office of Admissions and her first stint playing in a band.
Though unsure of how to pursue a music career, Pressley found stability in higher education. However, the absence of music in her life left a persistent longing. Meeting her husband during that fateful karaoke night added another layer to her musical journey. Introduced to a variety of artists by her partner, Pressley found solace in the raw storytelling of red dirt and alternative country music.
In 2022, Pressley left App State to work for her father’s business as her Pawpaw Tommy’s Alzheimer’s worsened. This transition reignited her desire for music, spurred by memories of her grandfather attending her first show. With her family’s unwavering support, she reconnected with former bandmates, Ray Edmonds, drums, Daniel Ames, guitar, and Austin Summers, bass, and began performing again.
By 2023, Pressley was ready to fully commit to her musical aspirations. She and her band embarked on recording her debut EP, Didn’t Stand a Chance, drawing from her life experiences and loved ones. Recorded at Sioux Sioux Studio with Charlotte-based producer Jason Scavone, the EP came to life.
Pressley’s musical journey is a testament to the power of collaboration and authenticity. Reflecting on her path, she credits her bandmates for refining her songs, with the title track, “Didn’t Stand a Chance,” holding special significance as it recounts the night she met her husband. With unwavering determination and support, Pressley embraces her musical path, crafting heartfelt melodies that resonate with listeners. Be sure to listen to her latest single “Mountain Man,” a song that echoes with passion and love while mixing truth with fiction.
From whimsical tales like “Ol’ George” to poignant ballads like “Gypsy Soul,” Pressley’s songwriting captures the depth of human emotion with raw sincerity. Through her music, she invites audiences to journey alongside her through love, loss and the pursuit of dreams.
As she prepares to take the stage at The Appalachian Theatre, opening for country artist Adam Church on May 10th, Pressley’s star continues to rise, serving as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring musicians everywhere. With a resilient spirit as enduring as the Appalachian hills, she reminds us of the transformative power of music in telling stories and touching hearts.
In the ever-evolving tapestry of the music industry, Pressley Laton stands as a testament to the enduring power of passion, perseverance and the timeless allure of a well-crafted melody. As she continues to write her musical narrative, one can’t help but be captivated by the harmonious symphony of her journey from childhood melodies to center stage.
Attempting to build a name for herself over the last year and a half, having had wonderful performance experiences such as at Boone’s High Country Beer Fest, Wilkesboro’s Key City Sessions and Statesville’s Roots in the Round Singers & Songbirds Songwriting Festival in 2023, this year’s schedule includes performances at the new East Boone Listening Room, the historic Jones House in Boone, Catawba’s Waterside Bar & Grill’s Rock the Dock Music Festival, Whiskey Bent Entertainment’s “Hot Rods in Harmony” event and the Antlers & Acorns: The Boone Songwriters Festival.
To follow Pressley Laton’s music career and keep up with her performance schedule, follow her at PressleyLaton.com.
