Laura Nyro was an influential American songwriter and pianist who emerged in the late 1960s. Known for her distinctive blend of pop, jazz, gospel, R&B, and soul, her music is characterized by her evocative lyrics and powerful, wide-ranging vocals. Despite not achieving substantial commercial success as a performer, Nyro's songs were covered by numerous high-profile artists and bands, including Barbra Streisand, The 5th Dimension, and Blood, Sweat & Tears. Her 1968 album, "Eli and the Thirteenth Confession," is widely considered her most influential work.