Laura Chavez

Laura Catherine Chavez (born April 3, 1982) is an American blues, soul, and rhythm and blues guitarist, songwriter and record producer. She has worked with many other musicians, including Deborah Coleman, Candye Kane, Dani Wilde, The Mannish Boys, Mike Ledbetter, Monster Mike Welch, Vanessa Collier, Casey Hensley and Whitney Shay. Her playing style is based in the Texas and Chicago blues traditions, both classic and modern genres. This was her second such nomination, as Chavez had been listed two years earlier in the same category.

Life and career Chavez was born and raised in Mountain View, California, United States. It was their final recording together before Kane died of cancer in May 2016. Chavez spent six months mourning the loss before she recommenced playing the guitar. Of their time together, Chavez later stated "Neither Candye or I ever anticipated that working together would have such a profound impact on both of us. She was so encouraging, always pushing me into the spotlight to make sure that people knew who I was. Early on, she would force me to be the center of attention. That really helped me with my self-confidence, which I needed at the time." During this time Chris Cain became a friend and influence. The same year, Chavez relocated to San Diego. Chavez also worked as the record producer and guitar player on Casey Hensley's 2020 album, Good as Gone. When she played with Nikki Hill, she used her usual Fender, with a Boss Fender '63 Reverb pedal and an RC boost. At home, she favors a Vero amplifier, made by the Fazio brothers.