Heather Mall and Lauren Extrom

Heather Mall is a singer-songwriter and actor from Chicago. Often referred to as a "songbird" because of her combined love of nature and music, her adult contemporary style captivates with passionate vocals and storytelling. Since her 2020 debut, Heather’s music focuses on establishing authenticity, navigating through life's tough moments and most importantly, healing. In her upcoming debut album, Calliope, Heather's heartbreakingly hopeful writing focuses on the love she sees in the world, whether real or unrequited, and topics of loneliness, grief and optimism.

Throughout her career, Heather has graced stages such as Green Room 42 in New York City, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the iconic Rialto Theater, the Credit Union One Arena (UIC Pavilion), among others, showcasing her versatility and depth as an artist. Drawing inspiration from The Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Ella Fitzgerald and Sara Bareilles, she weaves this influence into her music’s fabric. At the heart of Heather’s artistic journey is a powerful mission: to completely embrace vulnerability, help others to be inspired by the beauty of the human experience and to recognize their worth. This belief not only shapes her music but also serves as a beacon for her audience, encouraging authenticity, empathy and self-acceptance.

Her next single, "Back In Time" is a love letter to her grandparents. Heather's debut album, Calliope will be out at the end of this year. Follow her on all social media platforms to stay up to date on announcements and performances! @heathermallmusic

Lauren Alyssa Extrom (she/her/hers) is a vocalist, musician, producer, songwriter/composer, music director, teaching artist, and RYT 200 certified trauma-informed yoga teacher. Lauren’s sound has been described as floaty and resonant, yet warm and powerful. Her music production style includes lots of layered vocals paired with soulful grooves. Her musical influences include Hiatus Kaiyote, Lianne La Havas, Stacey Ryan, Sophia James, Carole King, and Sara Bareilles.

Lauren just finished making her first ever EP, entitled “This Blue Woman,” which is now available on many streaming platforms and for purchase on Bandcamp. It falls somewhere between the genres of indie pop and contemporary/pop jazz. This Blue Woman is for anyone who has ever experienced unhealthy relationships and made it through to the other side. Whether the connections are romantic, platonic, or even work-related, relationships can have a huge impact on a person's overall well-being. When those relationships are unhealthy and perhaps even toxic, they can wreak havoc on an individual's physical and emotional health. Sometimes it takes a musical muse to step in, sing out, and give a person the permission to leave those relationships, and to create a new world for themselves rooted in the celebration of the divine feminine; the release of stagnant rage; abundant trust in self; and a deep connection to one's inner wisdom.

Lauren is now beginning work on her debut album, Like a Mermaid, with an anticipated release in Spring 2026.

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

Get App

Host or Publisher Uncommon Ground