Multi-platinum singer-songwriter, and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, Sheryl Crow explained why she declined an offer to be a coach on the very first season of The Voice. She spilled the beans on her choice in a surprise radio interview last week. Crow, a nine-time Grammy winner, is going home to be with her family. She’s determined to shift their attention away from the pressures of a reality show—and back towards their creative goals.
In an extensive and candid exclusive interview, Crow opened up about how her family serves as her anchoring lifeline. She has three sons: Wyatt, 18, Levi, 14, and a 15-year-old son who is making significant strides in music. She has been actively introducing her children to the classics that influenced her own musical journey, emphasizing the importance of nurturing their talents.
“My 15-year-old has a great ear and can play really well,” Crow stated. Her son is currently honing his skills by learning the techniques of legendary bassist James Jamerson, just as Crow did during her formative years. Most importantly, she painted the picture of her son as an extraordinary bass player who is developing his true potential as a musician.
Even with his obvious gifts, Crow was happy to point out that her son wants to become a marine biologist. Crow’s ambition makes for an electric tension. He is interested in using his musical efforts to further scientific endeavors, while continuing to pursue his artistic aspirations. “I think he will always tinker, but he wants to be a marine biologist, so I don’t know how to compete with that. I don’t even know what they do,” she said, highlighting her support for his passion for marine conservation.
Crow’s younger son, Levi, shows musical tendencies as well. As a committed artist/activist/parent, Crow couldn’t be more excited about their involvement with such an amazing initiative. On their way into the biz, she’s unapologetic about being a bit condescending and pushy with their musical vocational aspects. “You have to take piano. Do not argue with me about it,” she humorously remarked about her parenting approach.
Crow told Rolling Stone that she’s glad she turned down The Voice offer. She had gone back and forth about joining for its inaugural season, but ultimately decided to pour all of herself into family life instead. That’s just not the case! When my son Levi was around 2 years old I didn’t want to move back to L.A., so I didn’t go. She ceased to indulge it ever since. Life here is hectic, and she loves the everyday-ness of it all.
Still, she’s no stranger to the music industry, as she takes on the role of mega mentor in Season 27 of The Voice. Crow said the experience was interesting, but rewarding. “I loved mentoring. It was a blast, and I absolutely adore [The Voice coach] Kelsea [Ballerini],” she shared.
In November 2023, that well-deserved honor occurred when Crow was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This induction was yet another remarkable achievement in her legendary career. Days before the ceremony, she posed vigorously with her three young boys on the red carpet. In doing so, they modeled what a loving family looks like.