Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Downers Grove Sun Article


Lauren Frost to Perform at Local Church

Hi Friends,

Thought I'd share with you some information about the fundraiser on Dec 6th. The link above will take you to a great article in the Downers Grove Sun, with all the details.

I'm happy to be home, and looking forward to performing alongside my good pal David Kovac. Hope you can make it out for a good cause!

Cheers,
Lauren

Friday, September 25, 2009

Midpoint Music Fest

Lauren Frost & The Blue Lou Band will be performing at the Midpoint Music Festival on Saturday, September 26th. MidPoint is a music festival in Downtown and Over-the-Rhine Cincinnati, OH. The festival atmosphere is always friendly and supportive as musicians, fans, and professionals all enjoy the Midwest's annual musical mecca.

9/26 10pm
Madonna's
11 E 7th St Cincinnati, OH 45202

For more show information, visit Lauren Frost at Midpoint

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Temecula Film & Music Fest

We are playing the Temecula Valley International Film and Music Festival this Saturday! I'm very excited to have been invited to perform, and can't wait to check out the newest films and artists. The show is open to the public, and you can purchase your tickets here --> TVIFF Ticket Information

Performing @ The Edge Restaurant & Lounge, Sat., 12pm
28544 Old Town Front St.
Temecula, CA 92590

Click here for a full list of performers, and show details.
TVIFF Music

Hope to see you there!

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Deep In The Heart of Texas



Ashton Likes and I headed down to Austin, TX this week to record with Matt Scutt in Oakdale 3B studio. We've all been working hard, completing Ashton's album, writing/recording new tunes, and dressing up the old. Somehow, we managed to squeeze a little sunshine, Tex Mex, and dance parties into our schedule. This video is a clear example of our "studio fever".

We'll have some new mixes ready for your listening pleasure soon. I'd love to hear what you think! Hope you are all well and savoring the last bits of summer.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Camplified

The Camplified tour was a blast and a half. The crew was awesome, and the artists were super talented and friendly. We played two NY dates at Winston Day Camp and Camp Kennybrook. It was such a pleasure to meet and hang with all the kids. I hope they enjoyed themselves as much as we did.



Taylor Bright, Misha Williams, Lauren Frost



Kicking Daisies & Lauren Frost


Check out the tour blog at Camplified.com

Big thanks to Aimee Berger and Primary Wave Music!

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Blu

We had such fun at the Shedd Aquarium's BLU last Saturday. We played on the terrace overlooking the entire Chicago skyline, with a perfect view of the boats all dressed up for Venetian night. The boys and I were giddy over the sight. Ok, maybe that was just me. The band was mostly excited about the mini pizzas.

After dancing next to otters, and many Swirlz cupcakes later, I called Matt Scutt (my songwriting partner) down in Austin, TX. I told him how surreal it felt to be playing our songs set to fireworks. He replied slow and satisfied, in his own Scutter way, "Niiice."

Here is a great article about the event:

BIZBASH Chicago: Sea Green

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

"Wait & See" on Women of Substance Radio

Women of Substance Radio is a streaming, online radio station which airs 24/7 on the Live365 Network. The station features female artists and singer/songwriters that deliver high quality music that speaks to listeners through vocal excellence, depth of character and emotion.

Women of Substance Radio


Click on the link above to hear "Wait & See" on WOS!

Monday, July 27, 2009

"Little Boy" on Kanaljazz

Kanaljazz is an online radio station Based in Paris, France and broadcasts from the Shoutcast server based in the United States. The station specializes in contemporary and indie jazz music along with other genres of the like. The station has a special interest in the sounds of French, British, Australian and European jazz. Kanaljazz streams 24 hours a day, 7 days a week of continuous airplay.

Kanaljazz


Follow the link above to hear "Little Boy" on Kanaljazz!

Friday, July 24, 2009

"Wait & See" on Reddog Radio

Reddog Radio is an online radio station Based in Paris, France and broadcasts from the Shoutcast server based in the United States. The station specializes in contemporary and indie blues, Rock along with old fashioned R&B and other genres of the like. Reddog Radio streams 24 hours a day, 7 days a week of continuous airplay.

Today, the station is mostly listened to in the USA, France, UK, Germany, Canada, Australia, Eastern Europe and South America.

Follow the link to hear "Wait & See" on Reddog Radio!

Reddog Radio

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Event at Shedd Aquarium 7/25

"Celebrate the homecoming of Shedd’s belugas, dolphins, sea otters, sea lions and penguins at the third annual BLU. This unique event combines a fun-filled evening at Shedd with exclusive seating to enjoy the city’s Venetian Night boat parade.

Through BLU, the Shedd Auxiliary Board supports the Making Waves campaign, including the transport of the Oceanarium animals, their care and feeding, and the Great Lakes Conservation Initiative.

Live musical performances from UI-C Jazz Trio, Jennifer Porter, Andy Davis, Lauren Frost Band, Hip- Hop Violinist Lee England Jr., Flavor Savers and Grammy award-winning producer DJ Maurice Joshua."

-Sheddaquarium.org


For more information, and to purchase tickets to the event, click on the link below.

BLU 2009

Monday, July 6, 2009

I wish everyday was fourth of July weekend

Hi Friends,

Man, what a weekend. Some friends and I went camping in Wisconsin. They're friends now, but before the trip, my friend Heather was the only link between the 6 of us. We joked that the weekend was our very own "Real World". You know, "A tale of 6 strangers, picked to live in a tent..". Our neighboring campers completed the cast of crazy characters. If you ever have the opportunity to camp with strangers, I highly recommend it. There's no better way to get to know someone than sitting around a campfire.

I should mention, this was my very first time sleeping in a tent. I loved it! You should also know that I kept it girly with my hand sanitizer and face cleansing wipes. I was happy to find a neat-freak companion in my fellow camper, Chris. He brought along Wet Ones, and was the only person to not make fun of my travel size Fabreeze. (Hey, tents can be stinky too.)

This trip will be the catalyst for many more camping trips in my future. Next time, I hope to really rough it like a big girl camper. Somewhere in the mountains. I'll be sure to report my progress from city slicker to mountain woman. Heather will be proud.

I hope you all had a safe, lovely holiday, filled with watermelon and pride. God Bless the US!

Cheers,
Lauren

Monday, June 29, 2009

Songwriting & Sunburn

Hi Everybody,

Just thought I'd drop a little note, and say hello. Hello!
Ahh, summertime has finally arrived. I've been savoring the days. Taking advantage of iced lattes, outdoor festivals, bbqs, bike rides, and that genius air conditioning. I look like a lobster, and it's great.

The show in Madison was a lot of fun. It was lovely seeing the Andy Frasco band, or as we've taken to calling them, "The Frascos". The Frascos crashed in Chicago for a few days, and reunion was sweet. I'll miss those guys. I got so used to having them around, that it felt strange coming home and not seeing a couch full of boys immersed in Mario Kart. Alas, the road called. Be sure to check out Andy's website. No doubt he will be coming through your town soon.

Speaking of tours, there are some dates in the works for me. Whispers of east and west coast. Keep checking back, as I will update the website as the shows come in.

As you may already know, my dear songwriting partner Matt Scutt and his family have moved down to Austin, TX. A visit is in order. I miss them, and their little Cooper. Matt and I also have some more songs up our sleeves. So, Ashton Likes and I will be heading down within the next few months to finish up his album and record new Lauren/Matt adventures. I've got all these ideas swirling around in my head, and I'm excited to get them down on paper and track. In Texas, no less. Yay!

Oh yes, I'll be sharing new photos and other goodies online soon. The website is getting a lil face lift. Don't be scared, change is good.

Hope you all are enjoying your summer! (I've been listening to a lot of country music lately. What are your favorite summer tunes?)

Cheers,
Lauren

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Facebook Fan

Are you on Facebook?

"Become a Fan" here:

Lauren Frost Fan Page

Just another way to keep in touch, and stay in the loop about upcoming shows, new pics and videos, etc.

See ya online!
Lauren

Friday, May 22, 2009

Thursday, May 14, 2009

"Wait & See" Live at Double Door

Hi Friends,

Here is a clip from my CD Release Show at the Double Door in Chicago. I hope to have the full set soon. For now, enjoy "Wait & See".

Cheers,
Lauren





PS
Just a reminder, you can see more videos and be my friend at youtube.com/laurenfrostofficial

Friday, April 3, 2009

Even Stevens Reunion

Last weekend, I had the absolute pleasure of reuniting with the "Even Stevens" family. Notice the use of 'family', because that's what we were, and still are. I overheard so many people say how cool it was that all these years later, we all came together. Not just the actors, but crew members, writers, execs, creators. In this crazy Hollywoodland, that's rare. I'm very proud to have been a part of the series, and lucky to have stayed in touch with so many of the ES 'family'.

Enough with the sentiments, on to the pictures!





Making a "Ruby" sandwich. The woman to the far left is the real Ruby and inspiration for my character.






Makeup artist extraordinaire, Petrice Bankhead. She taught me how to look like a girl.


Some of the cast with producer Sean McNamara




Principal Wexler!! AKA the fabulous George Anthony Bell




He got taller, I didn't.

Big thanks to Nick and Christy for throwing such a great party. It was everything I hoped my high school reunion would be.

Finally, I hope to see you at Pig' N Whistle in Hollywood tomorrow night!

Cheers,
Lauren

Sunday, March 22, 2009

New Shows Added

Good Afternoon,

Just a quick note to let you know of some upcoming shows. Here ya go...

4/4/09 - Pig' N Whistle
6714 Hollywood Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90028
10:40pm $10 21+

4/7/09 - Elbo Room
2871 N. Lincoln Ave.
Chicago, IL 60657
8:15pm 21+
with Andy Frasco

4/8/09 - Ashbary Coffee House
8695 S. Archer Ave.
Willow Springs, IL 60480
8pm All Ages
with Andy Frasco

5/8/09 - Uncommon Ground
3800 N. Clark St.
Chicago, IL 60613
8pm All Ages



Hope to see you out at a show soon. Yes, you.

Meanwhile, I'm thoroughly enjoying SXSW. I'll be in Austin for a few more days while the festival comes to a close. I'll be sure to share stories soon. I'm off to a record expo.

Happy Sunday!
Lauren

Tuesday, March 17, 2009

Girl Group?

Hey Friends,

I just wanted to share with you the hot jamz Margo Harshman and I wrote last night. You might remember Margo as Tawny on "Even Stevens". She also has several movies coming out, including "Sorority Row"...but that's besides the point. Most importantly, she and I have been friends for years, and have always wanted to write music together. Well, last night it finally happened. We wrote feverishly, and created Garage Band magic. Afterwards, we giggled like giddy little girls at our finished product. Hope you enjoy, and I'd love to hear what you think!

"Paragraph"



"Scenester"



In other news, I'm headed to SXSW on Thursday and I couldn't be more excited! I'm looking forward to exploring Austin, TX and experiencing mind-blowing amounts of new music.

Hope all is well in your world,
Lauren

Wednesday, March 11, 2009

"Even Stevens" Schedule

"Even Stevens" is back on DisneyXD. Below is a listing of episodes airing 3/11/09 - 3/25/09 Central Standard Time.

Secret World of Girls 3/11 at 6:30pm

Easy Way 3/11 at 10:00pm

Almost Perfect 3/12 at 7:00am

Broadcast Blues 3/12 at 6:30pm

Almost Perfect 3/12 at 10:00pm

Foodzilla 3/13 at 7:00am

Stevens Genes 3/13 at 12:00pm

Swap.com 3/13 at 12:30pm

What'll Idol Do? 3/13 at 1:00pm

Take My Sister...Please 3/13 at 1:30pm

Strictly Ballroom 3/13 at 10:00pm

Secrets and Spies 3/15 at 6:00pm

Deep Chocolate 3/15 at 6:30pm

After Hours 3/15 at 7:00pm

Shutterbugged 3/16 at 7:00am

Tight End in Traction 3/16 at 6:00pm

Shutterbugged 3/16 at 10:00pm

Duck Soup 3/17 at 7:00am and 10:00pm

Thin Ice 3/18 at 7:00am

Uncle Chuck 3/18 at 6:30pm

Thin Ice 3/18 at 10:00pm

Head Games 3/19 at 7:00am

Louis in the Middle 3/19 at 12:00pm

All About Yvette 3/19 at 12:30pm

Foodzilla 3/19 at 1:00pm

Family Picnic 3/19 at 1:30pm

The Thomas Gribalski Affair 3/19 at 6:30pm

Head Games 3/19 at 10:00pm

Love & Basketball 3/20 at 7:00am and 10:00pm

Devil Mountain 3/23 at 7:00am and 10:00pm

Scrub Day 3/24 at 12:00pm

Easy Way 3/24 at 12:30pm

Secrets and Spies 3/24 at 1:00pm

Deep Chocolate 3/24 at 1:30pm

Ren-Gate 3/24 at 6:30pm

Easy Crier 3/24 at 10:00pm

Wild Child 3/25 at 7:00am

Influenza: The Musical 3/25 at 6:30pm

Wednesday, March 4, 2009

Fun with Mbox

Roughly a week ago, I woke up with this melody in my head, crawled over to my guitar and wrote. Ashton Likes the song so much, he's using it as a transitional track on his record. (I really enjoy making sentences out of his name, as do most of his friends.)

After a lovely going away dinner at my parent's house, we decided to play with my new computer and old Mbox. We rigged the microphone in the loft, and the fun began. My friend John John played guitar, I sang, and Ashton hit record. Here it is.....

Monday, March 2, 2009

In Stores

Hi Friends,

In addition to my website and iTunes, you can also purchase "Words For The Birds" at these select stores:

Reckless Records
1532 N. Milwaukee Ave (Wicker Park)
3161 N. Broadway St. (Lakeview)
26 E. Madison (Loop)
Chicago, IL

Reggie's Record Breakers
2105 S. State St.
Chicago, IL 60616

Backside Records
139 N. San Fernando Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91502

Hope you enjoy!
Lauren

Wednesday, February 25, 2009

RadioIndy is pleased to present Lauren Frost with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Words For The Birds"

"As the big labels have celebrated their annual Grammy Awards ceremony, RadioIndy.com is proud to present this year's Grindie award selections for best indie CD's of the year. These are the best songs in various categories that were added to RadioIndy.com this past year, as judged by RadioIndy.com. We are grateful to all of the artists who have placed songs on our site this past year, and who allow us to include their songs in our music stations royalty-free for the exposure that we give them to new fans. We are also thankful to our growing number of registered listeners for their support of our fine artists, and to the growing number of Internet sites that include RadioIndy.com music stations to help enhance their web sites while bringing new fans to our artists. There are so many very talented Gold Artists who have uploaded excellent songs to our site, it was a very difficult decision. However, these are our votes for the best of the best."


Check it out - "Words For The Birds" GrIndie Award"

What a thrill! Thank you RadioIndy!


Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Spring Awakening

Is it me, or is the weather beautiful today?

Mostly Cloudy 34°F
Feels Like
25°F

(More like 34, feels like 76.)

I've gotten so used to the frigid cold, that I can't tell if it's actually warm or my brain is playing tricks on me. Can a person bring on the spring by shear will power alone? I can hear the whispers of sunshine approaching. What a day it will be when I can step outside and walk the streets of Chicago without a coat! It's been so long!

Tomorrow night is the "4 Women Only" finale show. To tell you the truth, I'm a little sad that it's ending. I feel lucky to have met such gifted ladies, and I'm grateful that Kat brought us all together. It's really a unique experience - I mean, you put four females in a room like that, you'd think you could cut the estrogen with a knife. Not the case. Every musician has something different to offer, and there is such a sense of comradery. I hope this series is just the beginning of our musical endeavours together.

I'll be adding photos soon. Then you can be formally introduced to my new friends.

As for tonight, I'll be back in the studio with Ashton Likes. He asked me to lay down some harmonies and such. His record is coming along quite nicely.

Now, go play outside!

Lauren


Monday, February 23, 2009

Valentine Dance Studio Intro

I discovered this gem of an introduction on my cousin Stephanie's camera. Don't mind her video skills, turns out she's not a professional.





Danny, you're "amaze". Thanks again for having us!

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Night 3 of "4"

Hi All,

I'm feeling much better today. I appreciate your concern, and enjoyed reading through all of your home remedies. Thanks for the suggestions! Tonight is the big "4 Women Only" show. Hope you will join us.

Uncommon Ground
1401 W. Devon Ave
Chicago, IL
ALL AGES! Suggested $10 donation

Just to clarify, (because inquiring minds need to know...) the night features 4 female singer/songwriters. In no way is this event "no boys allowed." Make sense? Come on down! Great food, cozy lounge, and awesome music!

Take care,
Lauren

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Mac Love

Yuck. I'm sick. I hate getting sick. I've got to find a way to get rid of this sore throat before I have to sing tomorrow night. The NyQuil helped, I slept like a baby. But now what? I've dosed myself with pounds of vitamins, drank my weight in juice, and watched un-Godly amounts of "Intervention".

The only up-side to my sickness, is that my world is forced to stop spinning long enough to hammer down and get to all the computer work I've had to put off. Speaking of computers - My dad got a new one, and so very kindly donated his old laptop to little ol me!!! I'm in love. My goodness, this thing is fast. I guess I never realized what I was missing out on. I now have a huge iphoto, music programs, a built in camera, and the overall works. Deluxe, I tell you. What generous parents I have. I'm typically not one to be impressed by technology, but I'm beginning to see the light.

As for tonight, I'm hoping to stop by Matt's for Ashton's recording session. They've been hard at work while I've been out of town, and I can't wait to hear what they've been coming up with. If it's anything like Ashton's set at the Double Door this past Sunday, I'm sure it will be awesome.


I feel like a proud mama.

This Sunday, it's my turn to join Jerome at the Double Door's Dirtroom. He also played an amazing set last week. It was great to see him with a full band, and I'm looking forward to whatever is up his sleeve for this weekend.

Time for another lozenge. I hope to see you tomorrow night at Uncommon Ground for our third week of "4 Women Only". I'll be there, decongestant in hand.

Cheers,
Lauren

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Jet Lag

Hi Bloggers,

I have a confession. Blogging kind of scares me. Unless we've hung out at least a dozen times, I'm a pretty private person. I'm also struggling to come to terms with the culture of social networking sites. It's a love/hate relationship, really. I like that I can keep in touch with people with a click of the mouse, but I also find it difficult to spew my innermost thoughts all over the Internet for any one to read. (Now, if we could communicate by letter, then it would be another story. I love letters.)

Then why keep a blog, you ask? Honestly, I enjoy keeping up with my favorite artists as much as I do my friends. Therefore, I appreciate your interest, and am completely honored to share my journey with you. Unfortunately, in the entertainment business, the line between promotion and candor is blurred. Having said that, I'm going to try my best to keep things personable and true. That is, if you'll still have me?

In the spirit of sincerity, I'd like to tell you about my recent trip to Los Angeles. There's something about that darn sunshine that makes everything alright. I love Chicago, I do, but a step away to taste the breeze was exactly what I needed. I rid myself of snow boots long enough to take meetings, take photos, play a show, write, learn new material, begin new projects, and meet new friends. New, new, new. Knew?

Our show at Room 5 Lounge was great fun. We played an acoustic set, and my friend Megan joined me on stage for a cover of Velvet Underground's "Afterhours". I was so excited for this show, that I forgot to take pictures. Luckily, Megan's sister Kate brought her video camera, and captured the entire set. I'll be sure to add it to youtube.com/laurenfrostofficial just as soon as the postal service will allow. (I left LA in a hurry to get back to play Uncommon Ground, so poor Kate has to mail me the DVD!)

Speaking of Uncommon Ground, our show last night was such a treat. As I said before, I'm very happy to be sharing the stage with such talented ladies. I'm so looking forward to the Wednesday's to come, and hope beautiful collaborations are born. Additionally, the venue has amazing food! I ate the best shoestring french fries I've ever tasted - no exaggeration. I just wish I didn't down them before singing...whoops. Anyway, I hope that you join us the rest of the month.

Alrighty, I think this is successfully my longest post ever. Phew. Now I shall leave you with a ridiculous video taken by my dear Margo Harshman. (Miss you!)





Cheers,
Lauren

Sunday, February 8, 2009

More Even Stevens

Hi All,

Just a quick note to let you know that "Even Stevens" is now airing. The show is back, along with "Boy Meets World" and other Disney Channel Classics. Check your local listings to enjoy the show all over again!

Love,
Lauren

Friday, January 23, 2009

Uncommon Ground - February

Hello!

I'm excited to be a part of "4 Women Only" at Uncommon Ground, so I thought I'd tell you about it. First of all, don't let the name fool you. Men are allowed too, even with their cooties. The shows are every Wednesday night of February (9-11pm), and showcase female performers from in and around Chicago. I'll be away traveling on the first night, but will join in on 2/11 and finish out the month. Other performers include: Cindy Brandle, Diana Lawrence, & Elizabeth Bagby. All shows are free, with a suggested donation. I'm looking forward to sharing the stage with these fine ladies, and I hope you will join us!

Check out myspace.com/laurenfrost or Uncommonground.com for any other show details.

Cheers,
Lauren

Monday, January 19, 2009

Toast and Jam

I had the pleasure of jamming with my new friend Phillip yesterday. That's right, I 'jammed.' Megan and Phil had fun with guitars, while I sang and attempted to play drums. That's right, drums. They quickly learned "Handlebars", and we had the workings of what could turn out to be a toe-tapping, haunting original. It was quite the enjoyable Sunday afternoon.


Meg posing with beautiful guitar

I'm off to write with the HILARIOUS Alexandra Ryan. You should check out her stand up on Youtube - you won't be let down.

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Hello LA!

Ah, it feels good to be back. I'm currently wearing a t-shirt and shorts - in January. Naturally, I've been sending texts/picture messages to everyone in Chicago of all my warm weather galavanting. I'm really not trying to rub it in, I just can't get over the fact I no longer have to dress in 8 layers before leaving the house. I feel as though I've time traveled. (Speaking of which, I'm reading 'The Time Travelers Wife" and loving it.)

It's been lovely catching up with all my west coast friends and 'family'. I'm very happy to know they are healthy and doing well. I had a burrito dinner with my dear Daley Hake last night. (I've been eating as much Mexican food and avocado as humanly possible.) He's so talented it's stupid, and our talks are always inspiring. I'll be tagging along at his shoot today.

If you take a look right over there ---> I've added a new show. I'm excited to play another show in LA, and I really truly hope to see you there!! FYI - Acoustic Playhouse is in the Room 5 Lounge at 143 N. La Brea. The venue is actually upstairs of Amalfi restaurant. You will not see a sign for Acoustic Playhouse, but don't be fooled, you're in the right place.

Good news! Through all my packing, I found that darn usb cable! Now begins the sharing of WGN photos...

Chilling with Tom Skilling


Ashton with Bozo


"Matt, who do you want you to take a picture with?"
"Chad Michael Murray."

A post-show toast at Julius Meinl


I'm a sucker for a good frappe presentation

Big man, little cup


"Words For The Birds!!!!"

Happy Days,
Lauren

Thursday, January 8, 2009

WGN Link plus WLS Photos

In case you missed it, here are links to the WGN performance and interview.

Lauren Frost on WGN Midday News


10 Questions For: Lauren Frost

Thanks again WGN!!

Matt, Ashton, and I took some silly photos backstage that I will post as soon as I find that darn usb cable for my camera. Fortunately, I uploaded photos from The Roe Conn Show before it disappeared.


With the cast: (L to R) Matt Scutt, Christina Filiaggi, Bill Leff, Jim Johnson, Me, Roe Conn)


Getting Ready to play


Bill and I chatted about his daughters. They love "Even Stevens". (Hi girls!!)


The Canarble Wagon! It's real!


Cheers to the Canadian Club crew! Best Manhattan I've ever had.

Monday, January 5, 2009

WGN Midday News

Hi Friends,

I'll be singing on WGN Midday News tomorrow afternoon at 12pm. We're playing an acoustic set, which is always fun. If you're not able to catch it live, be sure to set a recording, or you can even view the performance online after the show at http://www.wgntv.com/lunchbreak

I apologize for the late notice, but it's kind of a last minute thing. Hey man, that's showbiz. Anyway, hope you enjoy!

Love,
Lauren

Saturday, January 3, 2009

Happy 2009

Hi Friends,

Now that the holiday season is winding down, I'd like to take this opportunity to wish you all a happy and healthy 2009. Hope your holidays were jolly, and best of luck with those resolutions.

Cheers,
Lauren