Sara Bareilles Talks with Rachel Syme
The New Yorker Radio Hour
Deep Dive
Why does Sara Bareilles prefer working in theatre over the music industry?
Sara Bareilles prefers theatre because it feels less competitive and more collaborative. She describes the music industry as highly competitive, which doesn't align with her personality. In contrast, theatre fosters a sense of gratitude and joy among participants, with everyone being happy to be part of a production, regardless of how long it lasts.
How did Sara Bareilles' early experiences with co-writers shape her approach to songwriting?
Sara Bareilles' early experiences with co-writers were discouraging, as she felt her presence didn't matter in the songwriting process. She describes songwriting as a sacred and intimate act, akin to her relationship with God. This led her to reject co-writing sessions and insist on writing solo, which ultimately helped her develop her unique voice and style.
What inspired Sara Bareilles to write the song 'She Used to Be Mine' for the musical Waitress?
Sara Bareilles wrote 'She Used to Be Mine' as a way to capture the complexity of the main character, Jenna, in Waitress. The song reflects Jenna's messy, kind, and lonely nature, portraying her as a mix of emotions 'baked in a beautiful pie.' Bareilles aimed to authentically express the character's inner struggles and transformation.
How does Sara Bareilles view the relationship between art and commerce in the music industry?
Sara Bareilles believes that while art itself is not vulnerable, artists are. She criticizes the rapid rise to fame many young artists experience today, which can be overwhelming and unsustainable. Bareilles emphasizes the importance of creating art for the right reasons, such as self-expression and connection, rather than for commercial success or fame.
What role does collaboration play in Sara Bareilles' creative process, especially in theatre?
Collaboration is central to Sara Bareilles' creative process in theatre. She values the right kind of collaboration, where the collective effort results in something greater than the sum of its parts. Working on projects like Waitress allowed her to engage in meaningful conversations about motivation and storytelling, which she finds deeply rewarding.
How does Sara Bareilles feel about aging and authenticity in her career?
Sara Bareilles embraces aging naturally and sees it as a privilege. She feels a responsibility to show up authentically, even if it means challenging societal expectations about appearance. Bareilles aims to be a role model for younger artists by being true to herself and not hiding the natural process of aging.
- Sara Bareilles's initial success in pop music.
- Challenges faced with co-writers and record labels.
- Her deep-rooted passion for theatre from childhood.
- Transition from music career to focus on theatre
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