2018 ACMA Female Artist of the Year
“With a Voice as Rich as Aged Bourbon And Smooth as Vanilla”
2018 ACMA Female Artist of the Year
“With a Voice as Rich as Aged Bourbon And Smooth as Vanilla”
ABOUT
With an undeniable passion and magnetic stage presence, Lauren Mayell commands attention the moment she steps into the spotlight. Known for her powerhouse vocals and emotionally charged performances, she delivers an electrifying, authentic experience that resonates with audiences across the country music landscape. Based in Calgary, this dynamic singer-songwriter bridges the worlds of country, rock, and pop with effortless charm and lyrical depth.
Raised as a free spirit in Thunder Bay, Mayell was born in Calgary and later returned to the city to pursue her musical dreams. Her journey to the stage has been as multifaceted as her sound—beginning as a competitive downhill ski racer and coach, before evolving into a respected voice coach and recording artist. That athletic foundation instilled a deep sense of discipline, determination, and consistency—qualities that now drive her career in music. Those who work alongside her often remark on her tireless work ethic and unwavering dedication to growth, rooted in the belief that no matter how far you've come, there's always room to improve.
Mayell’s artistry is profoundly shaped by the challenges she’s faced in recent years. After the sudden and heartbreaking loss of her father, Larry Mayell—a revered industry figure and 2019 ACMA Industry Person of the Year—Lauren found herself rebuilding from the ground up. His steadfast belief in her and their shared dreams continue to guide her, especially in moments of uncertainty. His final words—to never give up—remain a driving force behind her resilience. During that same period, she also endured a serious medical battle, undergoing multiple surgeries to remove a thyroid tumor that threatened her voice and career. The road to recovery was long and demanding, both physically and emotionally. Yet through unwavering determination, she fought to reclaim her voice and identity, emerging with deeper purpose, strength, and clarity—qualities that now radiate through her music more than ever.
She continues to hone her songwriting craft, drawing from the raw, real-life stories she’s lived—composing primarily on piano and channeling emotion into every lyric and melody. That authenticity and vulnerability shine through in each of her songs.
Lauren’s musical roots run deep. She proudly carries the legacy of her grandfather, the beloved “Oak Lake Country Troubadour,” Charlie Mayell. In one of their final moments together, she sang to him at his bedside; nurses present that day said she “sang him to heaven.” Today, she wears his cherished “Pure Country” belt buckle as a tribute to his influence and a symbol of the lineage she continues.
With eight singles released to radio, Mayell has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in country music, including Gary LeVox, Kane Brown, Pam Tillis, Lorrie Morgan, Lindsay Ell, Brett Kissel, Dean Brody, Meghan Patrick, Aaron Goodvin, and many more. She’s a fixture at major festivals and venues such as Country Thunder (Arizona, Alberta, Saskatchewan), the Coca-Cola Stage, and Nashville North.
Best known for her fearless, lyric-driven anthem “Rules Need Rebels,” Mayell was named Female Artist of the Year at the Alberta Country Music Awards in 2018. That honor followed multiple ACMA nominations, her 2017 Country 105 Rising Star title, and a 2016 Country Thunder Cowboys Star win.
Her debut full-length album, The Journey, is currently in production and promises to be her most honest and powerful work to date. Recorded at MCC Recording Studios (Calgary), The Warehouse (Vancouver), and Manicdown Productions, the project includes standout tracks like the sassy honky-tonk stomper “Say It,” the heartfelt “If It Ain’t Fixed,” and her most recent release, the deeply affecting “Harder.” The album features songs penned in Nashville and is produced by acclaimed talents Dan Swinimer (Madeline Merlo, JoJo Mason) and Jeff Johnson (Dallas Smith, George Canyon, Wes Mack).
Mayell has also collaborated with top Nashville songwriters including Marty Dodson, Bruce Wallace, and Meghan Patrick, adding new dimensions to her ever-evolving sound and perspective.
Lauren Mayell’s story is not just one of musical talent—it’s one of grit, grace, and perseverance. She continues to rise through adversity, delivering songs that speak to strength, healing, and hope. With every note she sings and every stage she steps on, she leaves an indelible mark—reminding us all that the most powerful stories come from those who’ve truly lived them.
Listen to the new single “Harder” — available now.