Sara Bareilles Reflects on Formative Years with Maroon 5
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Sara-Bareilles-063026-q1-c0fe30556d6149388d4197fa81e6f2ca.jpg)
In a recent interview, singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles reminisced about her early interactions with members of Maroon 5, a band she first encountered when they were known as Kara’s Flowers during their university days at UCLA. Her connection to the band has been significant throughout her career, and she attributes much of her artistic growth to the experiences she shared with them on the road.
Bareilles has a history of touring extensively with Maroon 5 over the years. Recalling her youthful encounters with the band, the 46-year-old musician described how they felt like older brothers to her and her bandmates. “They took me and my band on the road,” she said, highlighting the generous spirit the members of Maroon 5 displayed towards her and her group. Their mentorship was instrumental in nurturing her talent during those formative years.
Looking back on those times, Bareilles also shared some whimsical anecdotes from their touring experiences. In an eye-opening moment, she recounted witnessing cocaine for the first time at a party, although she clarified that the substance did not belong to any of the band members. “Oh, my god, it was crazy. I saw cocaine for the first time,” she recalled, noting her disbelief at the situation. “Still never done cocaine, guys. I don’t do drugs, except with therapists.”
Among the more humorous memories, Bareilles couldn’t help but laugh at the enthusiastic fan interactions Maroon 5 garnered. “I could not get over seeing all the girls. There was literally a lot of throwing underwear,” she stated, amazed that such theatrical displays actually occurred in real life. The singer found herself contemplating the practicality of fan behaviour, jokingly expressing concern over their attire, particularly for those wearing skirts.
The duo’s paths connected not only in college but also on major tours, including Maroon 5’s 2008 It Won’t Be Soon Before Long Tour and the 2012 Hands All Over Tour. Bareilles has repeatedly acknowledged the role that the band played in shaping her career trajectory, stating, “Those boys changed the trajectory of my life in a big way, and yeah, I’m forever grateful,” reflecting on their impact during an earlier interview with CBS News.
As she approaches a new chapter in her career, Bareilles is preparing to release her first album in seven years. Titled Good Grief, the album is set to launch on August 28, 2026, and will be followed by a North American tour in September. This return to the music scene marks a significant moment for Bareilles as it showcases her continued evolution as an artist.
The forthcoming album promises to embrace her experiences, creativity, and growth during her time away from the studio. “This project is deeply personal, and I’ve poured my heart and soul into it,” Bareilles shared, indicating that the new material would resonate with long-time fans while inviting new listeners into her world.
With a rich history intertwined with Maroon 5 and a new album on the horizon, Sara Bareilles stands poised to make a triumphant return to music. Her journey not only exemplifies her talent but also highlights the influential relationships formed in the early days of her career that have contributed to her enduring success. As she steps back into the spotlight, fans eagerly anticipate both her new music and the stories she will undoubtedly share from her storied past.