Laura Bryna is a Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and children’s book author. For Laura music and writing is her way of expressing love, joy, and pain. She talks about her new illustrated Children’s book ’The Christmas Tradition" and using birds and giving back as her inspiration for it. Read on to know more and maybe start up this tradition yourself!

Where are you based?
Los Angeles and Nashville, I love both of these cities!

What inspired you to get into music?
Music has always been a central pillar of inspiration and joy in my life. We had a jukebox in the basement of our family home growing up, and hearing these songs at a young age was like hearing what I imagined magic to sound like. Music is my way, and a collective way, of expressing love, joy, and pain. Sharing these common emotions through song is truly soul-enriching and I live for it every day.

Can you tell us about your songwriting process?
You know, it’s always different. I could be sitting in an airport creating melodies on my phone while waiting to catch a plane. Alternatively, an emotion will rise in me and words will manifest, I’ll then have to write it down right there and then give a catalyst to a new verse or chorus… It can be a wild ride of creativity! I also love to collaborate on writing songs, and bouncing off creativity with other writers can be such a cathartic experience.

We love your ‘Stars are Falling’. What does this song mean to you?
This song really is about us all coming together and looking after each other in challenging times. This song came out during the pandemic and it really became a deeply personal moment for me to see just how powerful a song's message can be when it truly connects with people. I had front-line workers from hospitals and first responders reach out to me via social media expressing what the song meant to them and how it assisted them in dark times when they felt hopelessness and fearful.

‘Sweet Revenge’ and ‘Stars are Falling’ are two different vibes. How do you move from a theme like that of Sweet Revenge to that of Stars are Falling?
Well, I’ve never wanted to be known as one trick pony! Haha. I love to challenge myself creatively, and ‘Sweet Revenge’ brings the sass! My personality is multifaceted, I love bringing joy to people's lives, but I like to think I have a fun sense of humor and I’m oh so cheeky! I will always take chances and taking risks opens the doors of life!

Not only do you sing but you have written a book recently. Have you always been a writer or is this something new?
New but, not?! I’ve been working on writing books for several years but to see it in hard, physical form is truly amazing! When dreams become reality it is a special moment. This is one of those pinch me moments! Feeling very blessed.

Your book ‘The Christmas Tradition’ was a fun read! What was the inspiration behind it?
I am a huge bird lover and own several beautiful parrots. Just before my father passed, we went on a road trip traveling cross country with three parrots! I decided to document our adventure. Using our birds as inspiration, ’The Christmas Tradition' is really about giving back, giving to the less fortunate, and being kind, especially over the holidays.

We love that you highlighted your birds in the story. Can you tell us a bit about them and why they are important to you?
My birds are my kids. They are love, they are joy, they bring peace, and they make me smile every day. Yes, I’m a bird mom! And proud of it! Haha!

We love that the story focuses on the importance of giving back. What made you decide that this was so important to get out there?
My parents instilled that in our family from the moment I can remember. Our Christmas traditions have always been to help those less fortunate and help bring a sense of joy to other people's lives. Everyone deserves to have peace and love in their lives, and even a welcoming smile can help an aching heart. Giving back is a number one priority in my life.

Can you tell us about your experience working with Make-A-Wish Foundation?
Such an important organization! I can’t speak highly enough of these people. Seeing their incredible work with these kids is pure inspiration and I will always continue to be involved as long as we need Make-A-Wish. These kids are exceptional humans and I have learned so much from their strength and determination.

You are also very passionate about the National Guard’s Youth Foundation. Can you tell us about this organization and why it is so important to you?
Another great foundation that gets youth back on track and into the community. Again, the foundation gives youth a chance at a life that maybe they wouldn’t have otherwise. A chance to develop personal skills, confidence, social standards, hope, and a brighter future for themselves.

Speaking of the Guard, you co-wrote ‘Hometown Heroes’ for the United States Air Guard. Can you tell us a bit about this song and what inspired its creation?
I wrote ‘Hometown Heroes’ as a way of celebrating these incredible people who deserve our love and support. I wanted to assist in educating the community about the Air Guard and their amazing, tireless work in keeping us safe. The song was also used to help raise much-needed funds for the Air Guard.

Finally, you also are very active with Homes For Our Troops. What got you involved with this organization?
You know, these brave people risk their lives for our freedom and when they come home, they need livable homes. Homes for Troops assists in getting homes just right for veterans. If they need special requirements in their homes due to serving us, they will get it. Home is where the heart is, and every veteran deserves a home of safety, peace, and stability.

It has been a rough few years, how have you been staying positive during these times?
Sharing love and kindness has been a non-negotiable for me during the past few years. During the pandemic, we all had thoughts of ‘I’m feeling alone today’. Sharing love has been such a key during the pandemic and beyond. I am a big believer in celebrating each other’s high points in life, and also sharing the low points so we are not alone. Do everything with love. Love wins.

What is your motto in life?
‘Live life to the fullest!’

If you would like to find out more about Laura, check out these platforms:
laurabryna.com
Spotify
Apple Music
Instagram: laurabryna
Facebook: laurabryna
YouTube: laurabryna
TikTok: @laurabryna

Laura Bryna - A New Holiday Tradition