The Secrets Sheryl Crow Will Keep Forever

Sheryl Crow is often open about the stories behind her songs. She can discuss the personal turmoil that inspired Leaving Las Vegas, the election night that sparked Run Baby Run, and the heartbreak of witnessing her mothers battle with Alzheimers, which influenced Forever. Yet one question remains a mystery: who inspired her witty semi-romantic hit My Favorite Mistake?

Crow shares many insights in her episode of the new MGM+ series Words + Music, which premieres December 7, but she confirms that particular detail will remain a secret. The series, adapted from the Audible podcast, features artists delving into the origins of their biggest hits. Crow spoke briefly before taping her hour-long episode, expressing her thoughts on songwriting and the impact of AI on creativity.

Reflections on Songwriting

Looking back at her own music, Crow says she appreciates her work more now than when she was younger. She explains that age brings freedom from worrying about commercial success, allowing her to focus on the deeper significance of bearing witness through music. The emotions are universallove, sadness, joy, lossbut the stories make each song unique, she notes.

In Words + Music, Crow examines the backstory of her songs as much as she performs them. She points out that listeners often sing along without knowing the meaning behind the lyrics, citing All I Wanna Do as an example of a seemingly carefree chorus hiding a more cynical message about wasting away in a bar during the day.

Guarding Personal Inspirations

Crow prefers not to reveal the real-life inspirations behind her songs, believing the experiences remain relatable regardless of identity. She humorously admits that My Favorite Mistake was about Warren Beatty but emphasizes that the story itself is what resonates universally. Only her longtime manager truly knows the details behind her music.

Stories from Her Career

Her Words + Music episode begins with Run Baby Run, written the night Bill Clinton was elected, capturing the hope of that moment. Crow reflects on her journey before fame, including her years teaching elementary music in St. Louis and performing as a backup singer for Michael Jackson and Don Henley, as well as recording commercial jingles for major brands.

Crow explains that her goal was never stardom but to be a great songwriter, inspired by the works of Carole King and James Taylor. Early in her career, she sold songs to artists like Celine Dion and Tina Turner, but advice from Don Henley encouraged her to retain her music for her own recordings.

Her Thoughts on AI in Music

Crow expresses concern about AIs role in music creation, calling it a shortcut that undermines genuine artistry. She avoids using AI herself, emphasizing the value of music that comes directly from personal experience and emotion. Theres nothing better than something that comes from your spirit, she says.

Her episode promises a mix of candid reflections, stories behind iconic songs, and performances that give audiences a deeper look at her artistic journey.

Author: Logan Reeves