Sarah Bernstein has risen to new heights with single “Loser of the Year.” A departure from previous works, Bernstein meticulously crafted a composition that authentically captures the essence of early 2000s angsty pop-rock, drawing inspiration from iconic influences such as Fall Out Boy and the Freaky Friday (2003) soundtrack. The song has been aptly described as a fusion of Avril Lavigne and Bowling for Soup.

In this interview spotlight, I chat with Sarah about AI in music, dream collabs, choosing a favorite song, her latest release (Loser of the Year), and more.

Full Q&A along with links and music below.

This AI thing is getting way out of control. I have students using ChatGPT to write death metal songs about country music…and country songs about being sad. You can feed some Ais a text prompt and create a Hollywood-quality short film. How do you feel about this new wave of technological innovation?

I love this subject, and think it’s crucial for artists to acknowledge. AI gets a bad reputation because it’s easy to abuse, but really that’s just lazy songwriting. People can sense artifice, even if the words rhyme. And there’s no shortcut to “clever”, just like there’s no universal formula for making people laugh. AI can’t bypass creativity, but it can encourage creativity when used right. I’d encourage people to use it to their advantage without taking advantage of it. There’s plenty of ChatGPT prompts to help you to think outside the box in basically any field. 

I know it’s hard…but what’s your favorite song and/or favorite artist of all time? If not favorite, in your top 3?

“Linger” by The Cranberries

Were you trying to accomplish anything specific or different with this project? What’s the back story?

I was basically trying out outwrite my teenage self, since this song had been adapted from one I wrote in high school called “Only in My Soul”. It was a fun challenge, and since “Loser of the Year” turned out to be one of my favorite songs I’d ever written, I think it’s safe to say it won. 

What drives you to create? What keeps you going, especially on the bad days?

Especially on bad days, that’s when I find it’s most important to try. Even when I don’t have a single ounce of creativity in my body and I’m too lazy to pick up my guitar, I’ll at least sit at the piano for a few minutes. Usually, that’s when the hoover dam of emotions breaks. I’ve had so many amazing songs come from terrible days.

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why?

This is the hardest question! But for collaborative purposes, I’d say Ed Sheeran. I’m constantly studying his loop pedal skills and would love to pick his brain. He’s a true inspiration to me as a performer. 

Where is the best place to stay connected with you?

Definitely follow along on Spotify or iTunes! As for social media, I’m @SarahBernstein on Instagram, and @SarahWritesSongs everywhere else 

I appreciate Your time. Want to say anything else before we sign off?

Well I couldn’t sign off without teasing my next single “A Woman Like Me”, which was recorded in Nashville on the same day as “Loser of the Year” and features the same group of musicians. I’m extremely proud of what we created that day and super excited to share… stay tuned!