Singing Adele’s hit song “Someone Like You” to a sold-out audience at Florida A&M’s homecoming fashion show was one of the highlights of R&B artist LaJon Caldwell’s career.
Although the 22-year-old is pursuing a degree in education at Georgia Southern University, his talents go way beyond the classroom. Broadcast Music Incorporated (BMI) awarded him as its first “Know Them Now” songwriter of the year contest winner.
Caldwell took the stage in the midst of student models ripping the runway at one of the highest-anticipated homecoming events of the week, and just before new sensation Miguel entertained fans.
Valencia Solomon, a senior criminal justice student, said she enjoyed Caldwell’s performance.
“I loved his attitude as an up-and-coming artist,” Solomon said. “He had an amazing voice and he was very humble.”
The Colorado Springs, Co. native started singing when he was six years old. In 2005, Caldwell and his family moved to Georgia, a move that jumpstarted his career, he said.
It wasn’t until his freshman year of college that Caldwell began writing his own music, as he drew inspiration from artists like John Legend, Luther Vandross and country music band Rascal Flatts.
“Everything inspires my music,” said Caldwell. “Being able to reinvent myself and express myself is the greatest feeling in terms of recording and songwriting.”
Caldwell said performing for FAMU students was self-affirming for him in his music.
“The fans were amazing,” Caldwell said. “It’s always interesting when I’m performing at a new venue in front of people who don’t have any clue who I am.”
Fly Publicity, based out of Atlanta, represents Caldwell. Joshua King, Fly Publicity’s President/Chief Executive Officer, is a 2009 graduate of FAMU. Representing clients like Travis Porter and Prince Sammie, King said he knows talent when he sees it.
“At Fly Publicity, we work with talent that embodies self-motivation, pure talent, initiative and an ‘at any means necessary’ work ethic. Caldwell owns each of these characteristics; therefore, making him a perfect fit for the team,” King said.
Caldwell said he is following his passion and encourages hesitant singers and songwriters to do the same.
“Don’t let society determine your dreams. That first step is the hardest, but once you take it, the rest of the steps will come naturally,” Caldwell said.