Memphis has always been home to some of the most important and influential musicians. While best known for its blues and as a gateway to rock-n-roll (thanks to Elvis), there is no limit to the musical styles coming from the city. This is put on full display with Amy LaVere.
The early years
Amy was born in Shreveport, Louisiana with the name of Amy Fant. However, she did not remain in Louisiana long. As she ended up moving and changing schools 13 times before high school she didn’t truly feel grounded until the mid 1990s, when her family ended up in Tennessee.
During the early 1990s, Amy performed theater throughout Nashville before moving to Memphis in 1999. She started to write and record individual tracks, but she didn’t release a full album until 2006. Title “This World Is Not My Home,” she worked with Archer Records out of Memphis, which is an indie label in the region.
A number of larger acts on the indie scene provided their talents to her album, including Jimbo Mathus (made popular by the blues group Squirrel Nut Zippers).
Musician and actress
Amy LeVere didn’t just stop at recording music. In fact, many fans know her best for her performance on the silver screen more than anything else. She had performed theater and acted throughout high school, which helped her transition into her acting career easier.
She eventually went on to play a bit role in the movie “Walk The Line.” However, she eventually became a featured role in the movie “Black Snake Moan.”
Continued Discography
Following the release of her debut album Amy LeVere went right back into the studio to record her second album, “Anchors and Anvils.” This album ended up peaking at the #6 spot on the Americana Music Charts. It also landed her a nomination for Best New Or Emerging Artist at the Americana Music Association Awards.
During the following years she toured heavily, both on her own and as an opening act for groups like Lucero and Seasick Steve. Eventually in 2011 she recorded her third album, titled “Stranger Me” (although she did record an EP titled “Died of Love” in 2009) This album helped her win the award for “Best Singer in Memphis” for the second straight year.
Since “Stranger Me,” Amy has recorded a fourth album, titled “Runaway’s Diary,” which she produced with Will Sexton, her husband. His younger brother Charlie Sexton also appeared on the album.
Since 2014, Amy has released one additional album, a live album called “Hallelujah I’m a Dreamer” (which came out in 2015). She has a new album coming out at the end of August, 2019 titled “Painting Blue.”
Amy currently
Amy still performs around Memphis throughout the year. By checking her website you can see her latest and upcoming shows (you’ll often see her at locations such as The Basement Nashville in Nashville, and at the Crosstown Theater in Memphis). Ticket information for her other shows can be found on her website.
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