Sheryl Crow on Settling Down but Still Fighting the Power in Nashville: ‘I Call My Representatives Every Single Morning’

From California Dreams to Nashville Roots

Back in the mid-1990s, Sheryl Crow’s breakthrough hit “All I Wanna Do” playfully outlined a carefree wish list, describing imaginary scenarios set in places like West Hollywood car washes. But those scenes were purely made-up; no car washes were actually visited, nor harmed, during the creation of the chart-topping single. The song’s catchy lyrics painted a colorful, imaginary picture that captivated listeners worldwide and shot Crow into the spotlight. However, today, more than three decades since that vibrant track first dominated the airwaves, it’s interesting to think about what Sheryl Crow genuinely wants.

It has been 22 years since Crow exchanged the always thriving environment in Los Angeles for the more serene pace of Nashville, Tennessee. In thus doing, she joined one of the initial non-country genre musicians to step out of the mainstream, which in turn had a ripple effect, making it the new normal for subsequent artists. Her move was not just a change of city—it meant a whole new set of values, focuses, and music styles for her. Apart from being a part of the community of Nashville, Crow had been a lover of the calm and ordinary way of life delivered by the Music City, getting further from the vain and showy sides of the entertainment world.

On a warm afternoon in April, what Crow desires most isn’t fame, recognition, or even another chart-topping hit. Instead, her mind is focused on something far simpler and more meaningful: attending her son’s baseball game before the sun dips beneath the horizon over Interstate 65. Family has clearly become the cornerstone of her daily life, guiding decisions large and small. Moments like these—attending a child’s sporting event and enjoying quiet family evenings—have replaced the once busy social calendar and flashy industry events she left behind.

Friends and Musical Journeys

But family isn’t the only source of joy in Crow’s current chapter of life, she’s also eagerly anticipating the chance to reconnect with longtime friends and legendary musicians Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan. Later this year, she’ll hit the road with them on the “Outlaw Music Festival Tour,” an event that promises both nostalgic reunions and new musical adventures. Being part of this tour is particularly meaningful to Crow, who values deep connections and authentic collaborations over industry-driven fame. This upcoming experience symbolizes a beautiful balance between her love for performing and the comfort of longstanding friendships in the music world.

Recently, Crow also found herself in headlines for making a public stand regarding her Tesla. She decided to sell her electric vehicle as a protest against billionaire Elon Musk’s use of the cryptocurrency DOGE, believing his financial decisions negatively impacted essential government services. Predictably, this sparked considerable attention and debate online, with many fans and commentators weighing in passionately. Although Crow stands firm in her convictions, she candidly admits she’d prefer the media frenzy around her decision to settle down. For her, the car was never the point; what mattered was taking a stance that aligned with her principles, even if it brought unwanted noise and controversy.

Importantly, Sheryl Crow has clearly arrived at a point in her life where she’s consciously rejecting certain ambitions others might expect from a successful artist. She no longer desires the pressures of repeating the massive commercial success she enjoyed in her younger years. Chart positions, radio plays, or record-breaking sales no longer define her sense of accomplishment or happiness. Similarly, Crow feels no need to maintain an overly busy social life or attend endless events.

Revisiting a Life-Changing Book

Sitting in a distant corner of a restaurant in Nashville, having her tea in the gentle early afternoon sun, Sheryl Crow was thinking back to a book that challenged her at first but which later helped her regain her faith in life. She remembers trying to get the meaning of the first sentences of Eckhart Tolle’s “A New Earth”, the book that talks about your inner life energy and the fact that it’s your responsibility to be awake and embrace the present moment. “I tried to read Eckhart Tolle’s A New Earth years ago,” she confesses, “and there were so many ‘teaching moments’ that at first I didn’t get through it.”
This very book and its philosophical insights were something that she found hard to cope with in the beginning. However, in the same way that many meaningful writings do, it returned to her in a more appropriate moment of her life.

During the pandemic, when so many people were forced into isolation and introspection, Crow found herself watching not only the world around her change, but also the dynamics within her closest circles. As tensions rose over topics like vaccination, even lifelong bonds started to wear out. “I was having so many close friends and family start to pull apart because of their perception of vaccinations and everything,” she recalls. In the midst of this emotional unraveling, A New Earth became more than just a book—it became a guidepost. The concepts Tolle explored—particularly his discussion of ego and how it drives separation—echoed with chilling accuracy the things she was witnessing in her own life. Those lessons prompted Crow to examine not only the dynamics in her relationships but also her own thoughts about self, pride, and purpose.

The Battle with Ego and Expectations

As she reflected on Tolle’s ideas, Crow couldn’t help but draw connections between the author’s teachings and the culture of modern fame. Having intentionally stepped back from the spotlight in recent years, she now views the music industry—and its surrounding fame machine—with a far more critical eye. “When I think about it,” she says, pausing with a note of sadness, “it does make me sad that kids grow up now in my line of work where you hope you write a song as big as your brand.” She’s watched as music, which once stood on its own merit, has become entangled with curated identities, constant visibility, and algorithm-driven popularity. “The brand is so 24 hours a day,” she adds. “It’s so cultivated and so ego-driven that if I were coming up in today’s world, I wouldn’t be able to do it.”

Crow’s irritation about the egoistic nature of the music industry is quite a philosophical matter, and very much a personal one as well. “The ego is the thing that makes me so miserable,” she confesses, bearing the scars her existence as a public figure has made on her. With artists like Crow, who has always drawn from a place of sincerity and emotional fragility, the need to project an image of strength, confidence, and immunity to criticism, if at all limiting, is indeed suicidal. “I am already being hurt by my feelings,” she admits candidly, allowing people to see the level of sensitivity that many of the celebrities hide behind their glossy facades. “I can’t imagine what it would be like to go into it knowing I’ve got to build this picture of a famous, secure person, but also try to be vulnerable and be an artist.”

Finding True Happiness

Despite these struggles, Crow doesn’t speak from bitterness; her words are not those of someone disillusioned, but rather someone who has gained clarity. Over time, through years of self-work and spiritual reflection, she has come to terms with the emotional complexity of fame. “I think if you’re a person like me that struggles with depression already,” she says, “you’re always trying to figure out how to quiet those voices.” The voices she refers to—those internal critics, that ego-driven dialogue—have long tried to dictate her worth based on outside validation.

But now, after decades of personal growth, Crow can say something she might not have believed in her earlier years: “I’ve sort of made peace with it.” Sheryl Crow gently set her cup down and took a moment to reflect before opening up about her current state of mind. Unlike the earlier years of her career when chart-topping hits were the main focus, now she feels something much more valuable: peace. She doesn’t feel the pressure to keep up with industry expectations or constantly chase the next big song. “I feel happy. I feel at peace,” she said with a sense of calm assurance.

Crow’s honesty came with a bit of humor, as she laughed and added, “There isn’t that ‘Oh my God, I gotta write a hit song.’” She even joked that these days, even if she wrote a hit, radio probably wouldn’t play it. Rather than feel bitter, she sees this reality as freeing. The pressure is off, and she can finally create music for herself, not the charts, not the critics. “Now I just wanna write music that feels like I’m glad I wrote it,” she said. Her relationship with music has evolved into something deeply personal, rooted in joy rather than ambition.

Celebrating Women Musicians

Despite stepping back from the competitive rush of mainstream music, Crow hasn’t closed herself off from the artists making waves today. In fact, she feels energized and honored by the new generation, particularly the women who openly express their admiration for her influence. Crow is fully aware that she’s a source of inspiration for many emerging voices. At her Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction two years ago, she witnessed this reverence firsthand. The evening was incredibly symbolic—she was celebrated by two distinct voices from different eras: Stevie Nicks, her own hero, and Olivia Rodrigo, a young star of the current era.

It was a moment that reminded her just how long her music has mattered. She doesn’t see herself above today’s music culture—she’s part of its foundation. Crow recognizes that while she may no longer be at the center of the pop conversation, her fingerprints are everywhere. That acknowledgment fills her with pride and quiet satisfaction. Crow’s determination to support young female musicians has manifested itself and become highly visible during her magnificent show at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The concert, which gave a helping nod to Ringo Starr’s new country album, featured an impressive set of artists.

Crow was greatly humbled to be sharing the stage with the likes of Molly Tuttle, Sarah Jarosz, and Larkin Poe, who are all the new era of music greatness. The experience took her back to a moment fifteen years earlier when she raised concerns with the Grammys board. At that time, she challenged them directly, asking what steps they were taking to encourage young girls to pick up instruments and become musicians. It was a question rooted in concern and hope for the future. Seeing women dominate with skill and artistry now feels like a dream realized.

Life Off the Road

Sheryl Crow has not been on a tour often in recent months, mainly because she has been taking care of her two teenage sons, the most valuable responsibility ever. Although she was a great live performer before, being a good mother became a top priority for her over her real music journey. However, last year was exceptional. She had a chance to go on a concert with her old buddy, Pink, and that experience was something new for her, and it certainly made her love the stage again. She even told Pink, “If I got to open for you for the rest of my life, I’d be happy.” It wasn’t just about the music—it was the crowd. Pink’s audience was an inspiring mix of families, bikers, gay couples, and everyday people. What touched Crow most was how Pink connected with them all through deeply personal songs.

Sheryl Crow is scheduled to join Willie Nelson and Bob Dylan for the Outlaw Music Festival after Labor Day, but she’s doing fewer dates than she could. Though she was eager to say yes to every summer show, she had to consider her kids. “I would’ve done every single one,” she says honestly, “except my kids don’t want to go on the road.” Her boys have seen the touring life before—it’s no longer new, exciting, or interesting to them. And more importantly, Crow doesn’t want to be away from them at this stage. “I’m too selfish to want to miss any time with them,” she confesses, aware of how fast they’re growing up. Her oldest son, now 18, is preparing for college, and she feels time slipping. She remembers when he was just born, and now the idea of him leaving feels surreal.

Grounded in Nashville

For nearly two decades now, Crow has called Nashville home, and she credits the move with keeping her grounded. While some artists chase the limelight, she found peace away from it. Yet, in many ways, she believes she was always grounded, even before the move. “I think it makes a huge difference when you’ve punched a time clock,” she says thoughtfully. Long before fame, Crow lived a relatable life. After finishing college in Missouri, she worked as a schoolteacher, which helped shape her perspective. Unlike many who start young, she entered the industry with experience. That background has helped her stay steady through fame’s highs and lows. Nashville simply amplified the calm that was already part of her.

Back in the ’90s, Sheryl Crow had her best time in the Hollywood Hills, and she was surrounded by fame and flash. However, her lifestyle and point of view significantly changed as she determined to move to Tennessee. The choice was brought about after an array of personal events, although she does not detail them. The shift to Nashville allowed her to reconnect with her values. She left behind an industry obsessed with image for one rooted in community and creativity. Missouri roots taught her the value of hard work and simplicity, and Tennessee let her live that way again. Now she enjoys peace, privacy, and purpose. While she still creates, it’s no longer about the spotlight—it’s about fulfillment.

A Turning Point in Her Life

“There are times when life pushes you in a new direction,” Sheryl Crow reflects. The really big change has its origin in 2006, when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and this was an aspect that made her stop and think over some things. She was also in a very committed relationship with Lance Armstrong, but it did not go to the altar as she expected it to. She had formed bonds with his children, whom she thought she would help raise. But when that relationship ended and the diagnosis followed, it felt like a double blow. Add to that the emotional distance from her family while living in Los Angeles, and it was clear something had to change. Crow decided to leave California and build a new life closer to her roots.
“I wanted to put down roots; I wanted to have a family,” she recalls. In year 2007, she moved to Tennessee to begin what she calls “phase two” of her life.

Sheryl Crow doesn’t regret relocating from the Hollywood Hills to the slower rhythm of Tennessee. While the decision came from heartbreak and health challenges, it also marked a desire to realign with what mattered most. She found Nashville to be the grounding place she needed—a city that nurtured both her creativity and her personal healing. The sense of community and proximity to her family helped her redefine success beyond fame and charts. For Crow, success now meant peace of mind, being near loved ones, and having the space to raise children with intention. Though she once thrived in L.A.’s fast-paced industry circles, Nashville gave her something deeper. She didn’t feel like she was running from fame, but rather moving toward peace.

A Progressive in a Conservative State

Though she loves her life in Tennessee, Crow acknowledges that living there comes with tension. As a proud progressive, she often feels politically out of step with her surroundings. “Tennessee is a hard place for me. I mean, I struggle,” she admits without hesitation. While she doesn’t regret her move, she’s clear about her position in a mostly conservative area without shying away from being vocal about her beliefs, even when they conflict with the majority view. Crow has long used her platform to speak on issues like healthcare, gun reform, and climate change. She recognizes that some locals may not embrace her outspoken nature. Still, that doesn’t silence her—it motivates her. She believes it’s necessary to stay engaged and present, even in spaces that feel politically hostile. Living in Tennessee has only deepened her commitment to activism, not dulled it.

Sheryl Crow’s political engagement isn’t limited to public appearances or social media statements. She takes daily action by directly contacting her representatives in Congress. “I call my representatives every single morning,” she says with firm resolve. Specifically, she calls Andy Ogles and Marsha Blackburn, lawmakers she often disagrees with. It’s become a ritual part of her routine, part of her purpose. She laughs a little when she says it, acknowledging how relentless it must seem, “I do think, ‘Are they laughing?’” she wonders, but doesn’t let that stop her. To her, raising her voice regularly is part of being a responsible citizen. It’s not about immediate results, but about consistency and showing up. Crow believes silence equals surrender, and she’s not one to give up the fight. These calls represent her steady push for progress in a place that often resists it.

Speaking Truth to Power

Beyond daily voicemails, Crow takes action in other visible ways; she shows up. Be it showing up at rallies, advocating for local organizers, or talking on stage, she uses her words very knowingly. One of her commonly used quotes is by the former US President Jimmy Carter who said, “As long as there’s legal bribery, we won’t ever have fair elections”. That quote reminds her why action matters, even when the system feels broken. She believes change doesn’t come from one loud moment but from many small, persistent ones. Her goal isn’t to convert everyone, but to remind people that apathy is not a strategy, but by continuing to engage, she hopes others are inspired to do the same.

Being in Tennessee has made this activism feel more urgent, more personal. She no longer sees civic duty as optional—it’s essential. Looking back, Sheryl Crow sees every challenge, her health, heartbreak, and relocation as part of a larger transformation. Not only was her diagnosis of breast cancer a medical crisis, but it marked a turning point for her spiritual life also. Leaving Los Angeles wasn’t an escape, it was an arrival. In Nashville, she found not just safety and family, but clarity. She learned that personal peace and political responsibility can coexist, even in uncomfortable environments.

Now, as a mother, artist, and activist, she wears all her roles with pride. She’s no longer chasing approval or radio spins, she’s pursuing joy, truth, and purpose. Though Tennessee may not always reflect her views, she stays rooted because she believes in change. Crow continues to write music, raise her children, and fight for the future she wants to see. For her, that’s what phase two is all about: living fully, loudly, and with intention.

Standing Firm at all cost

Sheryl Crow has always been vocal about her beliefs, but her recent post about parting ways with Tesla took a turn that felt dangerously different. After she shared a video of her car being towed, meant as a personal stand against Elon Musk’s political behavior, she found herself at the center of a wave of far-right backlash. The reaction wasn’t just online noise; it triggered real fear. Unlike her 1996 protest song criticizing Walmart for selling guns, this time she was living in Tennessee, where, as she puts it, “everybody is armed.” One day, a man trespassed on her property, entering her barn with a weapon. The moment had a big impact on her because it didn’t only crossed a boundary, but it actually made her feel unsafe.
“It doesn’t feel safe when you’re dealing with people who are so committed,” she said, explaining the intensity of the shock, which was an unprecedented experience for her. For Crow, this wasn’t about debate—it was about danger. She wasn’t just sharing an opinion; she was risking retaliation.

When asked if she’d still post that same video, knowing what came after, Sheryl Crow paused briefly—but only for a moment. “I can’t help it,” she said, her voice grounded in conviction, not defiance. She believes her activism is driven by something larger than herself: her role as a mother and the values her father passed down. “I feel like I’m fighting for my kids,” she explained, adding that the sense of responsibility runs deep. Raised by a father she compares to Atticus Finch, she’s wired to speak up when something seems wrong. Even when it’s uncomfortable. Even when it’s dangerous. She continues calling out injustice, even if her messages fall on deaf ears or hostile ground.

Standing With NRDC

Sheryl Crow is lending her voice to support the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), an advocacy group that uses legal action to protect the planet. Founded in ‘1970, the NRDC has become a powerful force, now supported by more than 3 million members nationwide. With a team of 700 scientists, lawyers, and environmental experts, the organization tackles major threats to public health and natural resources. Crow is deeply impressed by the group’s record of success in court. During Donald Trump’s first term, the NRDC sued the administration 163 times, winning nearly 90% of those cases. That legal strength is needed now more than ever. “From the look of things,” Crow says, “there’ll be just as much action during Trump’s second reign.” She sees a clear threat to environmental protection under another Trump administration. That’s why she believes supporting NRDC’s work is vital.

Crow’s commitment to protecting the environment started long before she became a public figure, it goes back to her childhood and the values her parents instilled in her. “My parents said, ‘You need to leave the campground nicer than you found it,’” she recalls. For the Crow family, this was more than advice—it was a practice. On camping trips, they picked up trash, even if it wasn’t theirs. that small act made a lasting impression on her. Now, as a mother herself, she continues that tradition with her kids. When they visit beaches, they collect cigarette butts and plastic bottles left behind. Crow believes the Earth isn’t just a home, but a shared responsibility. And it’s up to each generation to teach the next how to care for it.

Small Acts With Big Meaning

For Crow, saving the planet not only through big policies or court cases, but also about awareness, mindfulness, and daily action. She refers to the necessity of adopting nature-friendly behavior as we are travelers on earth for just a while. That sense of impermanence is what drives her sense of duty. “This organism that we live on is being disregarded,” she warns. She points to current leaders who treat nature as a disposable asset. The problem, she explains, is that environmental issues are viewed as inconvenient to business. Crow sees this as dangerous and short-sighted. The lack of respect for air, water, and public land deeply troubles her. It’s why she speaks up and urges others to take part.

Sheryl Crow doesn’t hesitate to call out what she sees as willful neglect by government leaders. She criticizes the current administration’s treatment of the environment as a nuisance. “They not only don’t have it in their consciousness,” she says, “it’s seen as a nuisance to business.” That indifference, she argues, creates space for harm. Without accountability, corporate interests are given full control. Crow sees this as one of the most dangerous threats to future generations. She believes that protecting the planet should be non-negotiable. Instead, she sees profit taking priority over long-term survival. That’s why she supports the NRDC and its legal battles. To her, silence is no longer an option.

The Power of Legal Action

Organizations like the NRDC give Sheryl Crow hope in an otherwise frustrating fight. Their victories in court prove that change is still possible. With hundreds of lawsuits filed and won, the group has made a real difference. They’ve defended public lands, enforced clean air laws, and fought against toxic pollution. For Crow, these efforts are not just impressive—they’re essential. As environmental protections are threatened again, she knows legal resistance matters. “It’s really important that this organization exists,” she says. Without it, she believes many natural resources would be at greater risk. It’s one reason she continues to advocate publicly and financially support them.

As both an artist and a mother, Sheryl Crow is constantly thinking about what the future holds. She worries that the world her children inherit won’t resemble the one she grew up in. “I may not be here to see my kids teach their kids how to leave the campground nicer than they found it,” she says. That reality is hard to accept. She doesn’t know what the state of the planet will be by then. Her concern is not abstract—it’s deeply personal. It’s about legacy, stewardship, and responsibility. Crow wants her children and their children to live on a planet worth inheriting. That’s why she continues to speak up, take action, and lead by example. For her, this fight is about love, not politics.