Sarah McLachlan Drops First Album in 11 Years — and as an Empty Nester. Why It ‘Took Longer Than I Thought’ (Exclusive)

Sarah McLachlan Returns with “Better Broken”, her First Album in 11 Years, and Opens Up about Life as an Empty Nester

Sarah McLachlan, the renowned musician, has recently made a significant comeback with the release of her latest album, “Better Broken”. This album marks her first musical endeavour in over a decade and comes at a pivotal moment in her life, as she finds herself navigating the uncharted territory of being an empty nester. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, McLachlan shared insights into the creation of her new album and the emotional journey that has accompanied this phase of her life.

After a lengthy hiatus of 11 years, McLachlan’s album “Better Broken” is finally out, much to the delight of her fans. The title of the album was inspired by a song that was written 13 years ago but never made it onto her previous record. The concept of embracing imperfections and challenges as part of the human experience resonated strongly with McLachlan throughout the album’s creation process. She emphasises the importance of working through life’s trials and emerging stronger and more whole on the other side.

Produced by Tony Berg and Will Maclellan, “Better Broken” features a standout duet between McLachlan and MUNA’s Katie Gavin. The collaboration on the track “Reminds Me” offers a fresh perspective on the traditional duet format, with a focus on female voices and social consciousness. McLachlan admired Gavin’s vocal style and found that their voices complemented each other beautifully, adding depth and meaning to the song.

Drawing unexpected inspiration from the TV series Yellowstone during the pandemic, McLachlan embarked on a creative journey to write a “cowboy love song” that eventually found its place on the album. This venture into uncharted musical territory reflects McLachlan’s willingness to explore new avenues and push her artistic boundaries.

For McLachlan, the release of “Better Broken” coincides with a personal milestone as she transitions into life as an empty nester, with her daughters India Ann and Taja beginning their own journeys. The emotional upheaval of this period is evident in McLachlan’s music, as she delves into themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the messy beauty of human existence.

With tracks that delve into emotional chaos and introspection, “Better Broken” serves as a poignant reflection of McLachlan’s own experiences and growth. The album invites listeners to embrace vulnerability, confront their inner turmoil, and emerge stronger from life’s trials. McLachlan’s candid lyrics and soulful melodies resonate with audiences, offering a sense of solace and connection in uncertain times.

As McLachlan continues to navigate the complexities of life as a musician and a mother, “Better Broken” stands as a testament to her enduring talent and resilience. The album showcases her evolution as an artist and a person, encapsulating the transformative power of music to heal, inspire, and uplift souls.

In conclusion, Sarah McLachlan’s return with “Better Broken” not only marks a musical milestone but also a personal one, as she embarks on a new chapter in her life journey. With heartfelt lyrics, stirring melodies, and a sense of raw authenticity, McLachlan invites listeners to join her on a profound and cathartic musical experience. “Better Broken” is a testament to the enduring power of music to convey the depths of the human experience and offer hope in the face of adversity.