**Pete Yorn Reflects on Sobriety Journey as He Prepares for Anniversary Tour**
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Renowned singer-songwriter Pete Yorn has recently opened up about his journey towards sobriety, a decision he made following a health scare that reached its peak in 2023. The New Jersey native’s new lifestyle was put to the test as he performed his first sober concert at the illustrious McKittrick Hotel in New York City in 2024.
Yorn, 51, informed PEOPLE that a significant health crisis necessitated a surgical procedure that was pivotal in his decision to quit drinking. He revealed, “I was forced into [being sober] because I had to get this ridiculous surgery in 2023.” It was during the period of recovery that he considered the possibility of making sobriety a permanent change in his life. “I was two weeks into my healing, not drinking just to recover, and I thought, ‘Maybe this is my shot to just cut it out. It’s a good break here.'”
Since March 2023, Yorn has not touched alcohol. He expressed positivity about his new way of life, stating, “I haven’t drank since March of 2023, and it’s so great.” The singer noted that one unexpected benefit of sobriety has been the ease of maintaining a healthier physique. “It’s a lot easier to stay thin now, so that’s cool. Less bloated,” he quipped.
Performing for the first time while sober brought a mix of excitement and nerves for Yorn. He recalls feeling particularly anxious during his appearance at the McKittrick Hotel. “I was so nervous,” he admitted, adding that he needed to share his feelings with the audience to help alleviate his adrenaline-fuelled anxiety. “I talk about [my sobriety] more for me to put it out there and have an excuse to run off-stage if I did get too nervous,” he explained.
Reflecting on his past, Yorn acknowledged that his early experiences in music were often intertwined with drinking and smoking. “Playing music as a kid, when I first started up, it was always around drinking, smoking, and it was just fun,” he reminisced. However, he recognised that over time, his reliance on substances began to overshadow the pleasure of performing. “At some point, I really needed it too much to get on stage,” he said.
Despite the initial anxiety he faced post-sobriety, Yorn has gradually found joy in performing again. He described a shift in his mindset, stating, “I’d be white-knuckling. Now I’m finally able to enjoy the shows again.” He credited his experience and practice with helping him rebalance his nervous system. “I’ve got enough under my belt [that] I could handle it.”
As Yorn looks towards the future, he is gearing up for a significant milestone: a 25th anniversary tour celebrating his seminal album, *musicforthemorningafter*. Released in 2001 via Columbia Records, the album achieved notable success, including a spot on the Billboard Top 100 albums chart. Reflecting on his early aspirations, Yorn shared, “I remember thinking, ‘I want to make music that I’ll be proud of in 10 years. I’m not going to compromise. I’m just going to do what I love and see what happens.’”
Additionally, Yorn has released a digital deluxe edition of *musicforthemorningafter*, which fans can now enjoy. His willingness to be open about both his sobriety and his music journey serves as an inspiration to many and highlights the transformative power of self-awareness and determination.
As he embarks on this new chapter in his career and personal life, Pete Yorn’s story underscores the importance of health and the potential of embracing change, even in the face of uncertainty. With his upcoming tour on the horizon, audiences can anticipate a revitalised and authentic Yorn, ready to connect with fans on a deeper level than ever before.