Sharon Van Etten discusses New Jersey roots and upcoming homecoming concert
In preparation for a new tour, the release of her latest album, and the debut of her new band, Sharon Van Etten, a New Jersey native, is returning to her roots. The singer-songwriter is gearing up for her first-ever headlining show in the Garden State at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park on Feb. 4. This special event will introduce her long-time fans to her new band and album, both aptly named Sharon Van Etten & The Attachment Theory.
Despite now residing in Los Angeles, Van Etten emphasized her deep emotional connection to New Jersey, referring to the upcoming homecoming concert as a significant and moving occasion. She expressed her excitement about having family members in attendance, including her nephews who might be attending their first concert. Her dad, in particular, has eagerly awaited this day, and Van Etten jokingly warned her fans that her cousins can be quite lively during performances.
Growing up in Belleville and later in Nutley and Clinton, Van Etten’s musical journey began in high school where she engaged in choral activities and learned to play multiple instruments at North Hunterdon High. Contrary to many aspiring musicians from New Jersey, Van Etten did not harbor dreams of pursuing a career in rock ‘n’ roll during her formative years. Reflecting on her past, she confessed to hiding her guitar skills due to insecurity about her abilities, a sentiment that persisted until her forties.
Following her high school years, Van Etten attended Middle Tennessee State University where she found herself in an abusive relationship with a musician who discouraged her musical pursuits. Breaking free from this toxic situation and drawing from her experiences, Van Etten’s introspective and confessional songwriting style was born, resonating deeply with audiences and establishing a devoted fan base.
Initially crafting songs rooted in acoustic sounds as a form of self-therapy, Van Etten’s music has evolved over the years towards a more electric sound. Her latest album showcases a fusion of synths and acoustic instruments, reflecting a newfound collaborative songwriting approach with her bandmates that emphasizes trust and mutual respect. The inspiration behind this new method stemmed from a period of isolation during the pandemic when the group held impromptu jam sessions that resulted in the creation of two album tracks.
In addition to her music career and role as a mother, Van Etten has explored various creative pursuits, including acting, stand-up comedy, and writing. Despite her eclectic range of interests, she remains deeply invested in her connection with fans and the impact her music has on them. Van Etten views her creative endeavors not as self-indulgence but as a means of fostering connections and offering solace to listeners.
As she prepares to grace the stage at the Stone Pony in Asbury Park on Feb. 4th, fans can anticipate an unforgettable evening filled with Van Etten’s signature sound and heartfelt performances. Tickets for the show are available at the venue’s website, promising an intimate and emotional homecoming experience for both the artist and attendees.