**Susanna Hoffs Releases First Original Album in Over a Decade**
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Susanna Hoffs, the iconic frontwoman of The Bangles, is back with a new album titled *The List*, marking her first collection of original music in more than 14 years. The album, which dives into themes of loneliness, aging, and personal narratives, reflects a significant chapter in Hoffs’ life, as she crafts songs that resonate with her rich experiences over the past four decades.
In a recent interview, Hoffs revealed that her journey towards creating *The List* began through conversations with producer CJ Camerieri. Together, they explored elements of her life that inspired the music. “We would just start talking,” Hoffs recalled. “CJ would always say I would dive into stories that sometimes might not have an apparent connection to the song, but everything intertwined beautifully in the end.”
The album was recorded in Hoffs’ own home rather than a traditional studio, allowing for a more personal and intimate atmosphere. This decision enabled the co-founder of The Bangles to delve deep into her well of experiences, covering a spectrum of emotions from love and longing to loss and self-discovery.
Despite her long and happy marriage to filmmaker Jay Roach and the joy of family life, Hoffs pointed out that feelings of loneliness are universal and can happen at any stage of life. “You can feel lonely even when you’re in a loving relationship, especially now that our kids have grown up and started their own journeys,” she shared. “Hitting this age in my life has given me plenty to write about.”
Not one to shy away from emotional honesty, Hoffs credits her ability to express herself in music to the experience of writing her debut novel, *This Bird Has Flown*. The novel honed her storytelling abilities and informed her songwriting process. “The overlap of ideas and reflections from both writing and songwriting really helped shape this album,” she explained.
As she crafted *The List*, Hoffs was fortunate to collaborate with a diverse array of talented musicians. Camerieri introduced her to an impressive roster of artists, each bringing their own unique gifts to the project. “The community we built was incredibly rewarding,” Hoffs remarked, praising the camaraderie among her collaborators, which included the likes of Rufus Wainwright, Dan Wilson, and Edie Brickell.
While *The List* is her first set of new music in over a decade, Hoffs has remained active in the music scene, previously releasing several cover albums and lost recordings. Yet, the time felt right for her to present fresh creations to her audience. “I want every note and every syllable to matter. It’s crucial for me,” she asserted. “Music is all about the human experience, and without vulnerability, why would anyone want to be a musician?”
For Hoffs, the driving force behind her return to music is her unwavering passion for singing. “I love to sing, especially when I connect to the song,” she said. Music serves as a transformative force in her life, and she is aware of its potential impact on others. “It’s comforting to think that one day my song could help someone else through their heartbreak, just as music has helped me navigate my own life challenges.”
*The List* is set to be released on 18 September, and anticipation for the new album is building. With its focus on authenticity and emotional depth, it promises to resonate with long-time fans and new listeners alike, showcasing Hoffs’ enduring talent and heartfelt storytelling. As she prepares to share this new chapter of her artistic journey, Susanna Hoffs reminds us all of the timeless power and significance of music.