14 Best Sharon Van Etten Songs

John Godfrey

Sharon Van Etten crafts songs that hit the heart’s core with intimate, raw storytelling. Her haunting voice and evocative lyrics blend effortlessly with rich instrumentals, creating an emotional tapestry that lingers long after the last note. This balance of vulnerability and intensity is what sets her music apart.

Collaborations with artists like Angel Olsen and Norah Jones have only amplified her reach and depth. These partnerships bring fresh dimensions to her already compelling soundscapes. Let’s explore some of Sharon’s best songs and the stories behind them.

1. Every Time the Sun Comes Up – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Every Time the Sun Comes Up
Release Year: 2014
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Every Time the Sun Comes Up by Sharon Van Etten is a somber, haunting ballad from her 2014 album Are We There. The song blends indie rock with folk influences, showcasing Van Etten’s raw, emotive voice set against a backdrop of sparse guitar and brooding rhythms. The lyrics speak to themes of vulnerability and resilience, painting a picture of someone just getting by despite inner turmoil.

What’s notable about this track is its lyrical depth. Van Etten’s verses touch on the mundane yet profound moments of life, creating a narrative that feels both intimate and universal. The closing line, people say I’m a one-hit wonder, but what happens when I have two?, carries a hint of self-aware irony, leaving a lingering impression long after the song ends.

2. Seventeen – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Seventeen
Release Year: 2019
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Sharon Van Etten’s song *Seventeen*, released in 2019, is a hauntingly beautiful piece that blends indie rock with a touch of synth-pop. Its nostalgic theme, underscored by Van Etten’s powerful vocals, evokes a sense of both longing and reflection. With heartfelt lyrics, the track explores the complexities of growing up and the bittersweet nature of looking back.

The music video for *Seventeen* enhances the song’s emotional depth. It features Van Etten revisiting places from her past, creating a visual diary of her younger years. The raw, unfiltered footage perfectly complements the song’s candid nature, adding an extra layer of poignancy.

3. The End of the World – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: The End of the World
Release Year: 2017
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Sharon Van Etten’s The End of the World from 2017 is an evocative indie-rock ballad. The song features her deeply expressive vocals over a lush instrumental backdrop, with melancholic strings and somber piano creating an intimate atmosphere. The arrangement builds subtly, adding layers of emotional depth as the song progresses.

Exploring the theme of facing inevitable change, Van Etten’s lyrics resonate with a sense of vulnerability and introspection. The haunting refrain reflects a bittersweet acceptance of life’s impermanence. This poignant messaging strikes a chord with listeners, leading to positive reception from both fans and critics alike.

4. Mistakes – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Mistakes
Release Year: 2022
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Mistakes by Sharon Van Etten, released in 2022, draws listeners in with its rich tapestry of indie rock and folk influences. The song captures the raw essence of self-reflection and vulnerability, featuring a hauntingly beautiful melody that underlines Van Etten’s emotive lyrics. Her voice, both powerful and tender, guides the listener through a journey of acknowledging personal flaws and the inevitable mishaps we encounter.

The track showcases excellent production quality, blending both acoustic and electronic elements seamlessly. Guitars and subtle synths build a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive. Notably, the song received positive reviews from critics, who praised its lyrical depth and robust arrangement.

5. Like I Used To – Sharon Van Etten, Angel Olsen

Artist: Sharon Van Etten, Angel Olsen
Track Name: Like I Used To
Release Year: 2021
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“Like I Used To” by Sharon Van Etten and Angel Olsen is an indie-rock gem from 2021. The song seamlessly blends their powerful vocals with dreamy guitar riffs, creating a nostalgic yet fresh sound. Their harmonies evoke raw emotion, capturing the essence of longing and reflection.

The music video stands out as a creative masterpiece. It features both artists in various settings that mirror the song’s themes of memory and moving forward. The visuals, paired with the ethereal atmosphere, enhance the emotional depth and connect the viewer to the music on a deeper level.

6. Jupiter 4 – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Jupiter 4
Release Year: 2019
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Jupiter 4 by Sharon Van Etten is a moody, atmospheric track from her 2019 album Remind Me Tomorrow. It fuses indie rock with synth-pop, creating a haunting soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive. Van Etten’s evocative vocals, layered over brooding synths and steady drum beats, draw listeners into a dark, reflective world.

The song’s lyrics explore themes of longing and vulnerability, painting a picture of raw emotion. Lines like our love’s so strong and baby, baby, I’m taken with the way you move capture an intense, almost gravitational pull between two people. This emotional depth, combined with expert production by John Congleton, makes Jupiter 4 a standout track that resonates deeply with audiences.

7. Our Love – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Our Love
Release Year: 2014
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Sharon Van Etten’s song Our Love, released in 2014, exists within the indie rock sphere, laced with raw emotion and introspective lyrics. The song’s haunting melody is carried by Van Etten’s rich, evocative voice, layered over a minimalist arrangement that includes soft guitars and subtle, atmospheric synths. Its simplicity underscores the complexity of the feelings being expressed, providing a poignant soundscape for reflecting on love and loss.

One notable element is the live performances of Our Love. Van Etten’s haunting vocal delivery becomes even more potent on stage, often leaving audiences spellbound. She has an ability to connect deeply with her listeners, making each performance a transcendent experience.

8. Serpents – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Serpents
Release Year: 2012
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Sharon Van Etten’s song Serpents from 2012 delivers a raw, emotional punch. The track sits comfortably in the indie rock genre, blending haunting vocals with gritty guitar riffs. Its dark, brooding atmosphere pulls listeners into a world of heartache and emotional turbulence.

Fans and critics alike praised Serpents for its powerful delivery and gripping lyrics. Van Etten’s earnest performance resonates deeply, capturing the pain and intensity of toxic relationships. The song’s resonance has cemented it as one of her standout tracks in her discography.

9. Big Swimmer – King Hannah, Sharon Van Etten

Artist: King Hannah, Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Big Swimmer
Release Year: 2024
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Big Swimmer, a collaboration between King Hannah and Sharon Van Etten from 2024, merges alt-rock with indie-folk flair. The song’s brooding atmosphere, driven by moody guitars and haunting vocals, captures listeners immediately. Etten’s impassioned voice and King Hannah’s raw, melancholic sound create a somber yet beautiful experience.

What’s striking about Big Swimmer is its masterful composition. The intricate blend of electric and acoustic guitar work, coupled with subtle yet effective percussion, creates a rich sonic tapestry. The seamless production highlights each instrument perfectly, ensuring none overshadow the other, making the listening experience immersive and unforgettable.

10. One Day – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: One Day
Release Year: 2010
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Sharon Van Etten’s One Day from 2010 blends elements of indie rock and folk, offering a raw, emotional experience. The song features a minimalist arrangement with delicate guitar strums and Van Etten’s haunting vocals. It’s a tender piece that captures heartache and resilience in every note.

The production quality stands out with its lo-fi, almost intimate feel, making it sound like a personal confession. This rawness brings an authenticity that’s resonated deeply with audiences. Critics and fans alike praised its honest and unvarnished nature, cementing its place as a standout track in Van Etten’s catalog.

11. Quiet Eyes – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Quiet Eyes
Release Year: 2023
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Sharon Van Etten’s Quiet Eyes, released in 2023, touches the soul with its soothing melancholy. The song is a poignant indie-folk ballad, enveloped in dark, haunting synths and gentle guitar strums. Van Etten’s voice, rich and emotive, guides listeners through a narrative soaked in introspection and longing.

The theme of the song revolves around intimate moments and the quiet strength found in vulnerability. One of the standout lyrics, Don’t shy away, find the light in your Quiet Eyes, beautifully captures the essence of finding solace within oneself. The production’s atmospheric layers and subtle reverberations enhance this intimate ambiance, leaving an indelible mark on anyone who listens.

12. Impossible Weight – Deep Sea Diver, Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Deep Sea Diver, Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Impossible Weight – feat. Sharon Van Etten
Release Year: 2020
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Impossible Weight, featuring Sharon Van Etten by Deep Sea Diver, released in 2020, has a vibrant indie-rock essence stitched with heartfelt emotion. The song dives into themes of vulnerability and resilience, encapsulated in powerful lyrics and dynamic arrangements. Rippling guitar riffs and rhythmic bass lines drive the track with an urgent yet reflective tone.

The collaboration between Deep Sea Diver and Sharon Van Etten creates a palpable chemistry that enhances the song’s depth. Van Etten’s haunting vocals meld seamlessly with Deep Sea Diver’s intense soundscapes, crafting an unforgettable experience. The synergy of their voices adds a layer of intimacy that strikes a chord with many listeners.

13. Comeback Kid – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Comeback Kid
Release Year: 2019
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Comeback Kid by Sharon Van Etten, released in 2019, is an electrifying anthem of resilience and determination. The song’s energetic rhythm and powerful vocals blend elements of indie rock and synth-pop, giving it a unique, compelling sound. It’s both retro and modern, combining 80s-style synthesizers with a contemporary edge.

Focusing on the theme and lyrics, Comeback Kid encapsulates a story of personal transformation and unwavering strength. Van Etten sings about returning to one’s roots and confronting past struggles with newfound vigor. It’s a heartfelt declaration of reclaiming identity and moving forward with courage.

14. Let Go – Sharon Van Etten

Artist: Sharon Van Etten
Track Name: Let Go
Release Year: 2020
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Let Go by Sharon Van Etten, released in 2020, is a poignant ballad set within the indie rock genre, infused with an introspective atmosphere. The song showcases Van Etten’s evocative vocal delivery and emotive lyrics that ponder themes of release and acceptance. The instrumentation is lush but minimal, featuring acoustic guitar, subtle percussion, and elegant piano melodies that complement her voice beautifully.

The musical composition draws listeners into a contemplative space. The arrangement is both delicate and powerful, using dynamic shifts to heighten the emotional impact. The track’s production is clear and meticulous, with each instrument given room to breathe, highlighting the raw authenticity that Van Etten is known for.

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John Godfrey

John Godfrey is a music lover and the guy behind Songpier.com, where you’ll find all kinds of music guides. He picked up the drums in high school, which got him hooked on rock. With a Master’s in music education, he now enjoys writing about music and sharing his passion with others.

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