Laura Branigan dies, a dramatic piece of news. On August 26, 2004, world-renowned singer, actress, and songwriter Laura Branigan passed away at her East Quogue, New York residence of a brain aneurysm. Laura Branigan was 47. Laura Branigan is survived by her mother, Kathleen Branigan, brothers Billy and Mark, and sister Susan. Her husband, Lawrence Krutech, preceded her in death.
Laura Branigan was most recently working on material for a new release.
Laura Branigan's life, legacy, and contributions to popular music will be remembered not only with fond memories and thoughts, but through thecontributions of new artists who follow Laura Branigan example of putting total feeling and emotion into every note they sing.
There is an incredible beautiful tribute to Laura Branigan at the first page of her official website.
"You left in autumn
The leaves were turning
I walked down roads of orange and gold
I saw your sweet smile
I heard your laughter
You're still here beside me every day
’Cause I know you by heart..."
Discography (albums) of Laura Branigan:
- "Branigan" Atlantic Records - 1982
- "Branigan2" Atlantic Records - 1983
- "Self Control" Atlantic Records - 1984
- "Hold Me" Atlantic Records - 1985
- "Touch" Atlantic Records - 1987
- "Laura Branigan" Atlantic Records - 1990
- "Over My Heart" Atlantic Records - 1993
- "The Best Of" Atlantic Records - 1995
Laura Branigan Official Biography (from her official website):
"I want to touch people's hearts, to get right down to their souls."
- Laura Branigan
Laura Branigan, singer and actress, was born on July 3, 1957 in the upstate New York town of Brewster and raised in nearby Armonk, New York. It wasn't till her senior year in high school, where she performed the lead role in a school musical, that she began to consider an entertainment career. After graduation from high school, Laura moved to Manhattan and attended The Academy of Dramatic Arts. In the late 70's, she toured Europe as a backing vocalist for Leonard Cohen. Upon Laura's return to New York, it became clear to her that she wanted to pursue a career as a solo artist. Laura Branigan's powerful talent as well as her drive and determination led to her being signed by Atlantic Records.
Laura Branigan's first major appearance on the pop scene was with the anthem "Gloria" in 1982, which has become the signature song of her career. The track came from Laura Branigan's debut album, Branigan. "Gloria" was an enormous hit single, rising to the top of the Billboard charts and staying on the charts for an amazing thirty-six weeks. Laura received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocalist Female for the song.
In 1983, Laura released Branigan 2 and had two more top ten hits with "Solitaire" and "How Am I Supposed To Live Without You," confirming her status as a major artist. Laura could also be heard on the Flashdance soundtrack with "Imagination." Her musical involvement with the film led her to receive her second Grammy nomination. In 1984, the album Self Control was released with the title track, "Self Control" reaching the top ten. Another single from the album, "The Lucky One" went top 40. Laura Branigan also won the coveted Grand Prize at the 13th Tokyo Music Festival for her riveting performance of "The Lucky One."
Laura Branigan’s album "Hold Me" was released in 1985 and included the top 40 hit "Spanish Eddie". In 1987 "Touch" was released with the ballad, "The Power of Love”, returning Laura to the top 40. Throughout the 80's, Laura Branigan's songs also appeared on the "Ghostbusters," "Body Rock," "Coming To America," and "Salsa" soundtracks.
During the 90's, Laura Branigan released "Laura Branigan" in 1990 and "Over My Heart" in 1993. In 1995, a US greatest hits collection called "The Best of Branigan" was released. There have been several international greatest hits compilations released also, the most recent being the "South African Back In Control" in 1999. Laura Branigan has performed for audiences in the United States, Canada, Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa, touring the world several times.
Laura Branigan's acting credits have included television's "CHiPs", among others, and the films Mugsy's Girls and Backstage.
During the late 90's, Laura Branigan took a hiatus from performing, doing only the occasional concert. In early 2001 she made her return to the studio. 2002 saw the release of "The Essentials", a digitally remastered hits compilation. During 2002, Laura also performed the role of the singing Janis Joplin in the hit New York City musical "Love, Janis."
2004 has seen the release of "Self Control 2004" and "Gloria 2004", collections of remixes of the original Laura Branigan classics produced by some of Europe's top remixers, which feature stunning, newly-recorded vocals by Laura. Laura was currently at work performing concerts at various venues, as well as continuing to record her album of new material, and it was with great expectation and anticipation that fans everywhere were awaiting its release. Laura was back touching audiences once again with the unique four-octave range voice, consuming passion, and undeniable power that was pure Branigan! Sadly, Laura Branigan passed away suddenly on August 26, 2004 from a brain aneurysm. Laura Branigan lives on through her music and through the wonderful memories of her beloved family, friends, and fans worldwide.
Some great media files featuring Laura Branigan:
- video: Where are they now on VH1 (2002): Laura tells about the "Gloria" days and latest projects,
- audio: Me and Bobby McGee by Laura Branigan for a radiostation in New York City (2002).
R.I.P.
My name is Russell. I loved her music so much. I didn,t even knew she passed away. It was when I was watching the Grammy Awards when I found out. I am saded by the news. Her music will live on in all of us. My heart goes out to the family and her friends. I hope the new songs she was working on still comes out on CD. I will treasure her works in my heart forever. Love from Russell
Posted by: Russell | February 16, 2005 at 06:36 AM
We missed her. I got the Ghostbusters soundtrack, because it has her song called "Hot Night".
Posted by: Stan | May 21, 2005 at 03:38 AM
hi I have BeenA fan Of Laura"s for Many Years she was A wonderfull Loving Caring Lady who Had class and A Voice that would Knock your Sock"s Off ! HopefullSoon Laura"s Last Recording"s Will be released the world is a bit Sadder with Out Laura RIP Laura branigan your the Best Love Tom
Posted by: Tom | July 19, 2005 at 02:35 AM