Laura Branigan(1952-2004)
- Actress
- Music Department
- Composer
Laura Branigan was a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and actress best known for her powerhouse voice and international hits of the 1980s. Upon graduation from high school in Armonk, NY, Laura attended the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in Manhattan. During the 1970's, prior to establishing a solo career and signing with Atlantic Records, Laura was a singer/songwriter for folk/rock group Meadow and she also performed as a backing vocalist for Leonard Cohen while on tour in Europe. Laura rose to international fame with her 1982 breakthrough single "Gloria" and followed with chart-topping successes including "Solitaire", "How Am I Supposed to Live Without You", and her 1984 smash "Self Control". Her music was featured in films such as Flashdance, Ghostbusters, and Coming to America, and she appeared on popular television shows including American Bandstand, The Merv Griffin Show, The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson, and Solid Gold. Branigan also acted in TV series like CHiPs and Automan, and in films including Mugsy's Girls and Backstage. Branigan's songs continue to resonate in film and television, having been featured on highly acclaimed television shows such as Mr. Robot; American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace; and Somebody Somewhere, as well as films I, Tonya; Gloria Bell; and Speak No Evil.
