Lauren Duski: Authenticity and Resilience in Country Music After The Voice
For many aspiring artists, achieving runner-up status on a globally renowned show like The Voice marks the culmination of a dream and the immediate launchpad for a burgeoning career. However, for Lauren Duski, who captivated audiences and secured second place on season 12 of the hit NBC competition in the spring of 2017, the journey was just beginning – and it was one she chose to navigate with deliberate patience and unwavering commitment to authenticity. Rather than rushing into the music scene with a quick follow-up, Duski took a measured approach, dedicating herself to a process that prioritized genuine artistic expression over instant gratification. Her path less traveled has since defined her as a thoughtful songwriter and a powerful voice in country music, proving that true success lies in staying true to oneself.
In an exclusive interview, Lauren Duski opened up about the profound decisions she made in the immediate aftermath of her time on The Voice, revealing why she resisted the pressure to release music prematurely. Her candid insights offer a rare glimpse into the mindset of an artist determined to build a lasting legacy based on honesty and integrity. This commitment has not only shaped her music but also solidified her unique position within the competitive landscape of the music industry. Her story resonates deeply with anyone striving for genuine connection in a world often driven by superficiality.
A Deliberate Path: Crafting an Authentic Sound Beyond The Voice Spotlight
Following her impressive run on The Voice, where she earned widespread acclaim for her soulful country interpretations and powerful vocal delivery, many expected Lauren Duski to swiftly capitalize on her newfound fame. Yet, she opted for a different strategy, choosing to step back and meticulously define her artistic identity before releasing any new material. This wasn’t a decision born out of indecision, but rather a profound understanding of what it meant to be an artist with something meaningful to say. It took more than a year for her to drop her debut single, “Costume Party,” in July 2018, followed by her much-anticipated debut EP, Midwestern Girl Part 1, in February 2019. This patient approach, while unconventional in the fast-paced music industry, was fundamental to her artistic development.
“I’m proud of us for sticking to our guns and saying…we can’t just put out music for the sake of putting it out,” Lauren Duski exclusively shared with us. This statement encapsulates her steadfast dedication to her craft. “I didn’t want to just be this artist from The Voice who released music for the sake of it. I knew that if we started from the bottom, with honest songs, that was a way that I could look back on my career and be proud for not compromising that.” Her words highlight a crucial distinction between being a reality TV personality and a respected recording artist. Duski was intent on establishing herself as the latter, grounding her career in sincere storytelling and a sound that truly reflected who she was, rather than being defined solely by her television appearance.
The year spent post-The Voice was a period of intense self-discovery and rigorous songwriting in Nashville, the heart of country music. It was during this time that Lauren Duski truly uncovered the kind of artist she wanted to be: one who is unequivocally authentic and honest in every note and lyric. This journey of introspection led her to a pivotal realization about the power of vulnerability in her music. This deliberate pause allowed her to bypass the fleeting trends and instead focus on building a robust foundation for a career built on substance.
The Power of Honest Songwriting: “Costume Party” and Beyond
The turning point in Lauren Duski’s songwriting journey arrived with “Costume Party.” This particular track became the benchmark for the level of vulnerability and honesty she aspired to achieve in her work. “As soon as I wrote ‘Costume Party,’ I knew that was the level of vulnerability I wanted to have,” Lauren Duski explained. “I set that standard for myself.” This commitment to emotional transparency has since become the cornerstone of her artistic philosophy, guiding every decision she makes in the studio and on stage. It’s a challenging path, as it requires an artist to delve deep into their own experiences and present them unfiltered to the world, but for Duski, it’s the only way.
The 28-year-old artist openly admits that her journey to this level of honesty wasn’t always straightforward. “I’ve written songs that have been surface level and I’ve written them because I felt that’s what I needed to get the green light,” she confessed. However, the experience of performing such songs left her feeling disconnected. “But anytime I perform those songs…I feel nothing. If I’m going to step onstage, I want people to believe me and to be as honest as I can be.” This revelation underscores the profound impact that genuine connection has on both the artist and the audience. For Lauren Duski, music isn’t merely entertainment; it’s a vehicle for sharing truths and forging emotional bonds.
This unwavering dedication to authenticity, while artistically rewarding, sometimes means a longer path to releasing new material. “Maybe it then takes a little longer to release an EP,” she acknowledged, “but I just know if it’s not 100 percent authentic to me or my story or any story I’ve witnessed…then there’s just no point in doing it.” This philosophy ensures that every song Lauren Duski releases is infused with genuine emotion and a compelling narrative, making her music resonate deeply with listeners who appreciate raw, unfiltered artistry. Her steadfast refusal to compromise on this principle sets her apart in a landscape often criticized for its manufactured sounds and generic lyrics.
Midwestern Girl Part 1: An EP Rooted in Personal Narrative
The release of her debut EP, Midwestern Girl Part 1, in February 2019, was a testament to Lauren Duski’s commitment to her artistic vision. This collection of songs served as a powerful introduction to her authentic voice and her unique perspective. Each track on the EP delves into personal experiences, reflections, and observations, all filtered through the lens of her Midwestern roots. The title itself signifies a profound connection to her upbringing, suggesting themes of humility, hard work, and genuine connection—qualities often associated with the American Midwest. The EP showcased her growth as a songwriter, featuring lyrical depth and emotional richness that distinguished her from many of her contemporaries.
The critical and fan reception to Midwestern Girl Part 1 affirmed Lauren Duski’s decision to take her time. Listeners responded enthusiastically to the heartfelt narratives and the raw honesty embedded in each song, recognizing the artistic integrity she had strived for. This EP wasn’t just a collection of tunes; it was a deeply personal statement, a sonic autobiography that invited audiences to understand her journey, her struggles, and her triumphs. It solidified her identity as an artist whose music is not just heard, but deeply felt, establishing a strong foundation for future releases and a loyal fanbase eager to hear more of her authentic stories.
On Tour: Connecting with Audiences Alongside Lukas Graham
The fall of that year brought another significant milestone for Lauren Duski: her first-ever tour, supporting the acclaimed Danish band Lukas Graham. This experience provided her with an invaluable opportunity to connect with audiences on a new level and further hone her live performance skills. “It’s been the greatest show,” she gushed, reflecting on the tour. Coming off The Voice, Duski had limited touring experience, making this opportunity even more significant for her development as a seasoned performer.
Sharing the stage with an artist like Lukas Graham proved to be a perfect match for Lauren Duski’s artistic philosophy. “To do it with someone like Lukas, who is a storyteller outside of country, but his songs are equally as vulnerable and real, is such a gift,” she shared. The synergy between the two artists was evident, as both prioritize authentic storytelling and emotional depth in their music. This alignment allowed Duski to flourish, performing for an audience that was already primed to appreciate honest lyrics and compelling narratives.
Lukas Graham’s audience, known for its appreciation of lyrical substance, provided an ideal environment for Lauren Duski to showcase her own vulnerable songwriting. “His audience is there to listen to the lyrics and the story,” she noted, emphasizing the receptive nature of the crowds. This tour not only broadened her exposure but also reinforced her belief in the power of authentic music to transcend genres and connect with diverse listeners. It was a transformative experience, solidifying her confidence as a live performer and affirming her chosen path of musical integrity.
Championing Women in Country Music: Navigating an Evolving Landscape
With a successful tour under her belt and a growing body of authentic work, Lauren Duski continues to make her mark as an independent artist, navigating and contributing to a powerful current wave of women in country music. She recognizes both the challenges and the unique opportunities that exist for female artists in today’s landscape. “I think it’s a special time for women in country,” Lauren Duski observed, highlighting the burgeoning talent and growing influence of female voices within the genre. However, she is also keenly aware of the struggles that persist.
“It’s a struggle right now, especially for women who are trying to be extra honest and maybe saying things a little differently,” she explained. Breaking through with unique perspectives and authentic narratives can be particularly challenging in an industry that, at times, still favors traditional sounds and male artists on mainstream radio. As an independent artist, Lauren Duski faces additional hurdles, but also gains crucial autonomy. “Being an independent artist, it does have its struggles…especially as a woman. But I can control the music, and that’s really all it’s about at this point.” This control allows her to remain true to her artistic vision without external pressures compromising her sound or message.
Despite the disheartening statistics sometimes seen for women in country radio, Lauren Duski remains hopeful and inspired by the trailblazers who have built their careers on authenticity and strong fan connections. “I take it day by day, but I look at the track record of the last few years for women — and it can be disheartening — but I look at women like Kacey [Musgraves] and Miranda [Lambert] who’ve built a solid fanbase off their music and it doesn’t matter if it’s not coming from the radio…and that gives me so much hope.” These artists exemplify the possibility of achieving success and critical acclaim by staying true to their unique voices, proving that artistic integrity and a dedicated fanbase can transcend the traditional gatekeepers of the industry. Lauren Duski embodies this same spirit, paving her own way with integrity and passion.
Enduring Mentorship: The Continued Support of Blake Shelton and Adam Levine
Beyond her talent and tenacity, Lauren Duski has also been fortunate to receive ongoing support from her former coaches on The Voice, country superstar Blake Shelton and Maroon 5 frontman Adam Levine, both of whom were pivotal figures during her season 12 journey. Their mentorship didn’t end when the cameras stopped rolling; it has continued to be a valuable resource for her as she navigates the complexities of the music industry.
“Adam has been super supportive from the moment we got off the show until now,” Lauren Duski revealed, highlighting the consistent nature of their connection. His feedback proved particularly insightful during the early stages of her independent career. “He actually gave me some feedback on ‘Costume Party’ that I was so grateful for. I sent him a song early on just asking him what he thought of it and he was really helpful in that process — he gave his thoughts on production and all of that.” This hands-on guidance from a Grammy-winning artist and seasoned producer provided invaluable insights into refining her sound and overall artistic direction.
Similarly, Blake Shelton has played an equally crucial role, particularly in helping Lauren Duski find her footing in Nashville. “Blake has also played such a pivotal role in helping me navigate Nashville afterward and giving me great advice. He still does help me!” she affirmed. Shelton’s deep understanding of the country music industry and his vast network have been instrumental in opening doors and providing strategic counsel. “We played a couple of shows opening a few of his bars. It’s been great. The support you see on the show is real.” This genuine, continued support from two industry giants underscores the strong bonds formed during The Voice and provides Lauren Duski with a unique advantage as she continues to build her career on her own terms.
Lauren Duski’s journey since The Voice is a powerful narrative of an artist prioritizing integrity and authenticity above all else. Her deliberate approach to songwriting, her commitment to vulnerable storytelling, and her resilience as an independent woman in country music paint a compelling picture of a career built on solid foundations. With the unwavering support of her mentors and a growing fanbase drawn to her genuine artistry, Lauren Duski is not just carving out a space for herself; she is defining what it means to be truly authentic in the ever-evolving world of music.