Photo credit Giovanni Jackson
ANNOUNCING
LOVE FOREVER, Shara Strand’s New Album Release
This album wasn’t written in a studio—it was written in real life. In the late nights when the messages came through so strong to me that they wouldn’t let me sleep until they were fully written down. In the hardest and saddest goodbyes. In the quiet whispered strength of starting over.
Love Forever is a soundscape of the woman I’ve become, unapologetically and completely myself. And Love Forever is what I hope will become the soundtrack for people to heal, grow, and live their best lives. It’s a soulful reminder that out of the darkest times come the most beautiful realizations. Read more in my BLOG starting June 10!
ALBUM REVIEW
“Shara Strand’s Love Forever Is a Pop Album About the Most Radical Idea in the World: Loving Without Irony”
Most albums about love fall into one of two categories: euphoric escapism or breakup therapy. Shara Strand’s Love Forever doesn’t belong to either. Instead, it operates more like a memoir written in stereo; a multi-chapter reflection on the terrifying, exhilarating, and often contradictory experience of trying to love in a world that gives you a hundred reasons not to. Recorded at NYC’s Engine Room Audio, Love Forever unfolds like a spiritual survival guide disguised as a pop record. And it works, not because it has answers, but because it dares to ask the right questions.
If you’re tired of having to be cool all the time (or more accurately, if you’re done pretending not to care), Love Forever is your invitation to feel everything. No edits. No filters. Just the wide, complicated mess of being human. Put the album on. Sit with it. Let it remind you that even now, even here, love is still possible. Still terrifying. Still holy. Read Full Review, HERE.
— APPPPC
ALBUM REVIEW
“An ambitious thirteen track debut, Love Forever is the new album from Shara Strand.”
As the title suggests, the album takes on romance, love and all its facets through an array of bright and emotive pop. There’s an accessibility to it all, not to mention some catchy, groovy melodies, particularly in moments like My Green Light and Anthem. The latter is a powerful and adventurous highlight.
Strand delivers each new track with plenty of charisma. She has a voice that’s easy to love. There’s also a timelessness about the album’s compositions. Read full review, HERE.
— York Calling
ALBUM REVIEW
Two-time Billboard-charting artist Shara Strand makes a stunning return with her debut album Love Forever, a bold, catchy collection that explores love in all its forms. After weathering personal storms marked by grief, loss, and reflection, Shara emerges stronger, offering her listeners an intimate look at her transformation.
Love Forever is a 13-track journey through romance, healing, and self-discovery. From the tender promise of “I Will Be Here” to the sensual pulse of “My Green Light,” and the fragile ache of “Desperado,” each song speaks to a different side of love. The album closes with “Ascended,” a nice, dark-pop liberation song that feels like the emotional exhale we didn’t know we needed. Read full review HERE.
— KoriBlog
ALBUM REVIEW
At first glance, Shara Strand didn’t strike me as an artist who writes and records dirty R&B tracks. Based only on her album cover, I would have thought she’d be more at home on soft rock radio. More sweet than vixen. More white picket fence than post studio condo. But as they say, you should never judge an artist by her cover. In her latest track, Shara has given herself the green light to be bad, and she exudes hot girl energy from start to finish.Read full review HERE.
— Laurel Lane
Shara Strand Reflects on Her Music Journey and What's Ahead
From early songwriting in kindergarten to creating her debut album, Shara shares her creative process and future music plans.
— goathead Records, read full Q & A
Music
Shara Strand releases third single “Happy Ending”
“Shara Strand returns like a silhouette in the fog, a voice that shines among the ruins, a luminous presence that has lost none of its brilliance despite the shipwrecks. "Happy Ending" is not only a pop single, it is a handwritten letter forgotten at the bottom of a drawer, found by chance one morning when we had decided to no longer hope. It is a hope that does not strut, but that walks straight, fragile and flamboyant, in its romantic survivor's sneakers.”
See soft English translation below, Read full french review Extra VA French
“SHARA STRAND’S “HAPPY ENDING” HITS DIFFERENT – AND THAT’S THE POINT
There’s something wild about hearing a love song that doesn’t wallow in heartbreak, doesn’t lecture you on empowerment, and doesn’t try to outdo Shakespeare in metaphors. And I am talking about Happy Ending, the new single by NYC’s own Shara Strand. The song was released on 22nd May 2025, and I feel it like a throwback and a throw-forward in one glittering package – like finding your old Walkman and realizing it still plays your favorite record perfectly.”
— Read Full Review, Groovercity
“Shara Strand’s “Happy Ending” is a radiant return to form, a heartfelt pop song that blends 80s/90s nostalgia with a fresh, modern glow.
Released May 22, 2025, the track channels the emotional depth of Celine Dion and the honest charm of Sara Bareilles, capturing a sense of joy earned through resilience.”
— Read full review, KorliBlog
As the third piece from her debut album, this track establishes the musical direction for her future work. The track serves as both a celebration of personal development and reassurance that hope can always be reclaimed at any point. The music works for you whether you cruise with windows open or while you sit quietly reflecting. This piece possesses brightness without superficiality while delivering depth without overwhelming weight. “Happy Ending” creates a deliberate break from our fast-paced world to help you experience genuine emotions. And that’s what makes it special.”
—Read full review, Billroads
“Happy Ending” represents more than an ordinary single because it signifies a powerful comeback.
“Happy Ending” by Shara Strand: A Bright Anthem of Hope and Resilience
Shara Strand’s “Happy Ending” is a refreshing breath of upbeat pop that takes listeners on a warm, emotional ride. From the first note, the song carries the spirit of 80s and 90s pop—catchy melodies, shimmering synths, and powerful vocals—that feel both familiar and new. The production strikes a perfect balance between nostalgia and modern polish, creating a sound that’s easy to listen to but rich with feeling. The song’s melody is infectious, inviting you to sing along while the vibrant arrangement keeps the energy flowing. It’s the kind of track that can lift your mood instantly, but it’s clear there’s more beneath the surface.
—Read full review, Musikepool
The new single “Happy Ending” from Shara Strand brings listeners an uplifting pop sound that combines both modern and nostalgic elements. The initial melody transports listeners back to the 80s and 90s but remains fresh today. Shara takes retro vibes and transforms them into a contemporary emotional and entertaining experience. She delivers powerful, lucid vocals that effortlessly emulate the style of Celine Dion and Sara Bareilles. The opening verse establishes that this track goes beyond romantic themes to act as an assurance that happiness will return after difficult times.
—Read full review, Soundtulip
Shara Strand Shines with “Happy Ending” — A Pop Anthem for New Beginnings.
The 10 Most Underrated Music Artists Who Deserve More Recognition in 2025
Shara Strand
A vocalist who should be getting more love, Shara Strand’s voice effortlessly blends pop, soul, and jazz influences. Her signature emotive vocals and complex lyrics have created a unique sound that stands out in modern music. Check out this article: Shara Strand delivers a soul-stirring ballad with her recent single “Anthem.”
—Read full review, HonkMagazine
Shara Strand keeps the vibes high on her lively new single ‘Happy Ending’
Following the rapturous response to her brilliant comeback singles ‘Anthem’ and ‘Second Chances’, her first pieces of new material in nine years, New York’s Shara Strand continues her upward ascent with her lively new single ‘Happy Ending’.
—Read full review, LockMag
‘Shara Strand – Happy Ending’, is a radiant, emotionally sincere, pop ballad that wears its heart on its sleeve—and that’s exactly where it belongs.
Rooted in romance and resilience, this track unfolds like the closing scene of a heartfelt love story, complete with swelling melodies and an unmistakable sense of hope.
—Read full review, GoodMusicRadar
From the vibrant music scene of New York City, Shara Strand is back with a delightful new single called “Happy Ending.” This song is catchy, uplifting, and sure to bring a smile to your face. Shara pours her heart into it, delivering the message with confidence and charm.
“Happy Ending” goes beyond just a sweet story. It’s about believing in love again and hoping for brighter days, even when life gets tough. Shara delivers the words with such sincerity that you can feel she has personally experienced the emotions behind them.
—Read full review, HonkMagazine
Shara Strand delivers a pop fairytale with new single “Happy Ending”
Shara Strand chavire nos cœurs avec “Happy Ending”
Shara Strand returns like a silhouette in the fog, a voice that shines among the ruins, a luminous presence that has lost none of its brilliance despite the shipwrecks. "Happy Ending" is not only a pop single, it is a handwritten letter forgotten at the bottom of a drawer, found by chance one morning when we had decided to no longer hope. It is a hope that does not strut, but that walks straight, fragile and flamboyant, in its romantic survivor's sneakers.
There is in this song the scent of faded VHS, romantic comedies seen too many times, and those moments when you still choose to open your heart again. We mainly hear a woman who does not sing love like a bluette, but as an act of resistance. Produced by Rebel and recorded in the studio of his beginnings as we return to a childhood home, "Happy Ending" is not written in capital letters, but in pure emotion, all in roundness and sincerity.
Shara's great strength is to never disguise sweetness as cuteness. She summons the memory of yesterday's divas, but refuses the pastiche. She writes in the present, with her feet in the puddles of the past, and her eyes turned to a possible light. This piece is a bridge between what we thought we were and what we can still become. He listens to himself as we reread a page that we thought was too torn to be re-glued.
With "Happy Ending", Shara Strand does not promise us a fairy tale. It offers better: a real chapter, full of folds, voices, silences and shards - a chapter to finally write for yourself. (Soft Translation)
—Read french review, ExtraVAFrench
What People Are Saying About Shara’s New Single Release “Second Chances”
CHART News reports Second Chances moving up the charts in Europe! May 30, 2025
INTERVIEW
After a short break, New York singer Shara Strand returns with the track “Second Chances” – an emotional song about hope, inner strength, and rebirth. Having found herself again, Shara Strand is ready to shout to the world: “I’m here, and I have something to sing!” The song, which carries the spirit of the ’80s, is at the same time one hundred percent relevant in its message, and has become a personal revelation for Shara. In this conversation, Shara opened up to us, we talked about love, loss, forgiveness, and how to find oneself. The singer also shared what inspires her when creating new music, about the courage to allow herself to feel, the valuable lessons learned on stage, and what it really means to shine from the inside and out. And so, friends, today with us Shara Strand! Read full interview HERE.
— VOXWAVE Magazine
When Shara Strand sings, you don’t just hear the notes — you feel the heartbeat behind them. The Billboard-charting singer-songwriter from New York City has returned with her latest single, Second Chances, released on April 28, 2025. It’s a radiant, synth-drenched celebration of resilience, rebirth, and the undeniable magic of daring to believe in new beginnings. Read full review HERE.
— Apricot Magazine
Este himno vibrante del synthwave pop contemporáneo se siente como un renacer lleno de luz y amor sin reglas. Está cargado de emociones que nos invitan a redescubrir el amor con una mirada nueva. Tal y como lo dice Shara, es una canción sobre decidir vivir la vida sin reglas, sobre el perdón y seguir adelante, siempre hacia el amor. Prepárate para cantar de corazón a corazón. Read full review HERE.
— Indie Dream
New York City's own Shara Strand is back again, and her latest single, "Second Chances," is a song about evolution, love, and the strength of a clean slate. Shara is the master of vivid lyricism - this song is her at her core - tale-telling straight from the heart, with a taste of hope and power. Its infectious melodies will get you humming along in no time, but its music video sticks with you for a different reason. It's a reminder that come what may, there's always a second chance. Read full review HERE.
— HypeHub Magazine
Shara Strand is well-acquainted with the concept of reinvention, and she returns with an invigorating burst of retro-inspired optimism in her latest single, “Second Chances.” This track serves as a reminder that healing, growth, and hope can thrive on the dance floor. Following the success of her previous Billboard-charting hits, “RSVP” and “I Will Carry You,” the NYC songstress confidently moves forward, delivering a nostalgic yet fresh 80s-inspired synth-pop sound combined with an emotionally rich core. Read full review HERE.
— Honk
Produced by Rebbel, “Second Chances” finds Shara tapping into the kind of soaring, anthemic pop that feels destined to echo far beyond its runtime. The chorus blooms with uplifting harmonies, underpinned by a warm arrangement that’s both retro and thoroughly current. Wrapped in a cinematic quality that’s equally bright and intimate, the song distils a reflection on love, loss and the kind of inner transformation that comes from heartbreak and healing. Read full review HERE.
— Plastic Magazine
Shara Strand’s new single “Second Chances” delivers immediate joy through its lively 80s synth melodies that blend nostalgic tones with modern appeal. The song’s initial moments reveal its unique personal touch that sets it apart from ordinary pop tracks. The track features dynamic dance rhythms created by Rebbel that leave room for Shara Strand’s vocals to stand out. Her voice delivers smooth emotional tones that powerfully penetrate the beat with clear impact. The chorus stands out as both big and catchy because it lingers with you well after the song concludes. Read full review HERE.
— latestrelease
Shara Strand has always been known for writing songs that touch people’s hearts and it sounds like she has gone deeper this time around with her latest work Second chances.
Second Chances pulls you in from the very first few seconds into a dreamy, retro sound that feels like it’s from the 1980s. All thanks to Producer Rebbel, the song also has a modern and fresh touch that makes it perfect for today’s playlists. It’s filled with warm synths, catchy beats and a layered harmony that gives it a full rich sound. Read full review HERE.
— Cocomyrrh
Being a singer-songwriter who bases her presence and vocal style on the R&B and danceable pop, with an experience dating back to 2007, with her first single; the American Shara Strand arrives at Cosmonaut Radio to show us her new song recently published at this close of April 2025, her single Second Chances.
By giving Play on this track you can discover a very distinctive phrasing of the legacy of the iconic Swedish Euro pop group, ABBA; but if you set aside distinctive elements of contemporary artists such as Taylor Swift and Madonna, generating a fairly peculiar stylistic line in this song where sounds of yesterday and today merge. Read full review HERE.
— Cosmonauta Radio
“Strand’s courageous navigation of her own transformation presents an enriching layer to the piece, elevating “Second Chances” beyond mere pop confection; it emerges as a motivational anthem for those willing to embark on a journey toward self-improvement.”
Read full review, Kindlinewmagazine
Second Glances at “Second Chances” as Shara Strand’s Synth-Pop Reboot Shines Bright!
As we celebrate our 400th review, it’s not every day that a comeback sounds this celestial. After years of quiet, New York’s billboard charting artist and synth-pop siren Shara Strand returns with “Second Chances”, a radiant revival that feels like a diary entry set to a disco ball. It's a heart reboot in four minutes flat. With shimmering 80s-inspired production by Rebbel and lyrics that pulse with personal truth, Strand offers a love song not just for lovers, but for anyone who's ever wished for a do-over. Consider this your cosmic invitation to believe in second chances and to dance while you do! Read full review HERE.
— Underrated Fresh Artists
In a world where electronic pop often skims the surface, Shara Strand’s "Second Chances" dives deep and comes up shining. This isn’t just another polished synthpop track; it’s a satisfying, finely-crafted anthem that pulses with both vulnerability and resilience.
From the opening bars, the production is tight and immersive, pulling you into a soundscape that feels equal parts retro and refreshingly new. Strand’s vocals are warm and honest she doesn’t just sing the lyrics, she lives them. Her voice glides over polished beats and shimmering synth layers with a grace that comes from experience, but there’s also a newfound rawness here. It’s as if she’s opening the door to a chapter she once thought closed. Read full review HERE.
— SOAPLIFE Magazine
After a short break, New York singer Shara Strand returns with the track “Second Chances” – an emotional song about hope, inner strength, and rebirth. Having found herself again, Shara Strand is ready to shout to the world: “I’m here, and I have something to sing!” The song, which carries the spirit of the ’80s, is at the same time one hundred percent relevant in its message, and has become a personal revelation for Shara. In this conversation, Shara opened up to us, we talked about love, loss, forgiveness, and how to find oneself. The singer also shared what inspires her when creating new music, about the courage to allow herself to feel, the valuable lessons learned on stage, and what it really means to shine from the inside and out. And so, friends, today with us Shara Strand. Read full interview HERE.
— VOXWAVE Magazine
Music
Shara Strand releases new single “Anthem”
“New York City-based artist Shara Strand has long been a decorated figure in the music world, blending powerful vocals with profoundly personal storytelling. Influenced by artists like Shania Twain, Whitney Houston, Celine Dion and modern acts such as Beyoncé and Lady Gaga, she carries a timeless elegance in her sound while embracing contemporary pop and folk elements.”
— Plastic Magazine, read full review
“New York City-based Powerhouse Vocalist and Songwriter Shara Strand Makes A Triumphant Return”
“New York City-based powerhouse vocalist and songwriter Shara Strand makes a triumphant return with her latest single, ‘Anthem’, released on January 25th, 2025. A soaring power ballad infused with resilience and strength, ‘Anthem’ is a declaration of perseverance and empowerment, resonating deeply with anyone who has faced adversity.”
— Rotate, read full review
“Anthem”: Shara Strand’s New Song About Discovering Ancient Inner Strength
“Her latest single, ‘Anthem’, is a deeply moving pop/folk composition about discovering one’s ancient inner strength, even in the face of the darkest and most uncertain times. For Shara, music and art are gifts meant to be shared boldly and generously with the world, never hidden away.”
— VOXWAVE Magazine, read full review
Shara Strand’s Anthem Is the Uplifting Power Ballad We Need Right Now
“Anthem” by Shara Strand speaks directly to the soul. This ballad is an experience with powerful vocals and a secure message of perseverance. Produced by Gregory “Phace” Fils-Aime, best known for his work with rock bands and recorded with care at Engine Room Audio, “Anthem” leaves room for every note to register emotionally.
— Landon Buford, read full review
“American folk pop singer Shara Strand has just release the single ‘Anthem’
“American folk pop singer Shara Strand has just released the single ‘Anthem’, which can now be seen on other streaming platforms. Released…on January 25th, this is the singer's first studio work since the single ‘The Best Part of Me’, which came out in October 2016. ‘Anthem’ is a powerful folk-pop approach that finds its authentic power, even in the face of the most turbulent moments. With an acoustic arrangement, the song stands out for the singer's powerful performance, in addition to the exciting chorus, the kind that makes you fill your chest to sing! Shara Strand is a singer who has been on the Billboard charts twice, and is now working on her debut album.”
“Shara Strand Releases The Track ‘Anthem’
“Shara Strand releases the track ‘Anthem’, a track that begins with acoustic guitar chords, a powerful vocal and instrumentation with a surprising crescendo, making it a very harmonious set that is very enjoyable to listen to.”
— Publication Blog Post/@os_garatosdeliverpool
Shara Strand shares an empowering new single “Anthem”
Shara Strand is back, and she’s bringing the heat. Taking cues from resilient hits like “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson, Sia’s “Elastic Heart,” and Christina Aguilera’s “Fighter,” powerhouse vocalist and songwriter spent the summer crafting her return with “Anthem,” released on January 25, 2025.
— ZILLIONS Magazine, read full review
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT
Shara Strand delivers a soul-stirring ballad with her recent single “Anthem”
Shara Strand pours her heart and soul into her new single, “Anthem.” This soaring, soul-stirring declaration of resilience and empowerment features a modern pop/folk sensibility that sees Shara stepping back into the spotlight with purpose and passion for liberation. From the first note, “Anthem” captivates listeners with its rich instrumentation and evocative melodies, setting the stage for Shara’s beautiful yet heartfelt vocal delivery.
— HONK Magazine, read full review
“Anthem” by Shara Strand: A Song of Strength to Illuminate Your Days
Today, we invite you to dive into Shara Strand’s music, a two-time Billboard-charting artist and entrepreneur.
Shara Strand’s “Anthem” has been the soundtrack of our weekend, a folk-pop song that seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. In this track, we discover a confident and powerful voice that offers hope and courage during our moments of doubt. The lyrics celebrate resilience, encouraging us to face adversity without fear.
— THE FURTHER, read full review
Shara Strand dévoile Anthem
Shara Strand dévoile Anthem, une chanson pleine d’ondes puissantes et motivatrices. Une production solide et forte, une voix assurée. Un single à ne pas manquer et une artiste à suivre de très près.
— Direct-Actu.FR, read full review
Shara Strand unveils a declaration to strength and survival “Anthem”
Some songs are entertaining, others are inspiring, but few said something within the squid-rich flesh of the soul aflame. Like many others, Shara Strand’s newest single, “Anthem,” is one of those rare gems, the power ballad that bleeds in your ears and lives in your heart.
— Hypehub, read full review
Shara Strand Delivers a Powerful and Electrifying Performance in Her Uplifting New Pop Anthem…”Anthem”.
A soaring vocal showcase with bold production, Anthem is an empowering declaration of strength and resilience. Singer-Songwriter Shara Strand’s new single “Anthem” is a high-energy, emotionally charged powerhouse of a track that lives up to its name in every way. From the opening moments, the song radiates a sense of happiness, feel good moments and triumph, propelled by Strand’s commanding vocal performance. Her voice is rich, expressive, and unwavering, soaring over a bold production that blends cinematic instrumentation with modern pop sensibilities.
— goathead records, read full review