DENISE LA GRASSA * THE FLAME *
DENISE LA GRASSA
Denise La Grassa stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance and creativity. As a singer-songwriter, she's carved a niche in Chicago’s vibrant music scene with her rootsy style, a harmonious blend of rock, blues, soul, and gospel. Her sophisticated yet irresistibly melodic songwriting is again prominently displayed on her latest album, "The Flame," which is gaining radio airplay in the United States as well as Canada and Europe.
North of 40: The Turning Point
The winds of change blew through Denise's life in May of 2022 when Lincoln College, where she led the reimagining of the music program, closed its doors permanently. But instead of returning to academia, she fearlessly resolved at this late stage to dedicate her life full-time to songwriting and performance. This was the beginning of what she dubbed her "North of 40" journey, asking the world “Can a woman … say ‘North of 40,’ follow her dream of returning to Europe to play with her new band and new bluesy sound?”
Early Daredevil Days
Denise's fearlessness and creative expression revealed itself early. It was elementary school in suburban Chicago where she would write poems, put them to music, then knock on neighborhood doors to perform and ultimately try to sell her latest creations to her neighbors. That fearlessness carried itself through her teen years, where she responded to a competition notice and broke the world record for muscle grinds on a trapeze—an achievement that found its place in the hallowed pages of the Guinness Book of World Records.
This early courage and tenacity foreshadowed her future in performance. As a 20-something she would write and perform her own one-woman musical shows, one of which found an audience in Europe. She also landed a role in a made-for-HBO movie with Anthony Edwards, and stints on the popular TV series Unsolved Mysteries.
The Music that Speaks to the Soul and the Spirit
Denise's music is more than just melodies and lyrics; it's a bridge that connects her Catholic faith with pressing social issues. Many songs on her album, "The Flame," are lyrical reflections of this connection. Her faith is woven into the fabric of her songs, addressing themes of justice, compassion, and human dignity. The rootsy sound that forms the background for these poems reflect the previously mentioned diverse musical influences - blues legends, rock icons, soulful crooners, jazz luminaries, and the deep resonance of gospel.
Denise's journey from trapeze records to musical notes is a testament to the power of following one's passion and using it as a vehicle for positive change. She is a conductor of emotions, a storyteller of faith and justice, and a guardian of the flame of music that conveys her deepest convictions to all who listen. Denise La Grassa is not just a singer-songwriter; she's a fearless dreamer, a beacon of faith, and a voice for the voiceless.
Denise La Grassa
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