Fresh Prospects: Lauren Jean and Mia Walz

The Red Room at Cafe 939 proudly presents Fresh Prospects, a free concert series spotlighting Boston’s emerging artists. Curated by Berklee students with an ear for talent, this series offers an intimate glimpse into the music scene’s future, featuring local performers making waves and capturing attention.

Lauren Jean is a Boston-based singer-songwriter. Inspired by Amy Winehouse and Fleetwood Mac, her music floats within the neo-soul and soft rock realm. She is a queer artist taking from her personal experiences; her vulnerable lyricism covers topics like domestic violence, grief, empowerment, and heartbreak. 

From middle-of-nowhere Ohio, she started her music career by gigging in restaurants and bars with her dad at 14. Only a couple of years later, she won first place at Ohio Has Talent and appeared on the 18th season of American Idol. In 2022, she released a deluxe version of her debut EP, WORLD OF COLOR, for which she collaborated with the CMA-winning producer Ilya Toshinsky and two-time Emmy Award–winning cinematographer Herb Maximo. 

Lauren Jean began performing her own shows last year with a backing band made up of fiercely talented women. She has also played an instrumental role in her hometown’s Small Town Pride event for the past three years. Currently, Lauren Jean is writing her debut album while attending Berklee. 

With her soulfully warm yet raspy voice, Berlin-born artist Mia Walz is bound to be a rising star in the music industry. Currently pursuing her studies in vocal performance at Berklee, Walz's musical style is a captivating blend of alternative pop and soul infused with funky roots. 

Her artistry is a testament to the profound influence of artists such as Lake Street Dive, Cat Burns, Raye, and Joss Stone. Adding her own twist to these classic and contemporary sounds, Walz forges a sound uniquely her own. With an ability to authentically connect with her audience and an undeniable stage presence, Walz is poised to captivate audiences worldwide with her global perspective.