Spotlight Saturday: Steph Amoroso's Musical Nostalgia

In the heart of bustling New York City, amidst the hustle and bustle of the urban landscape, resides a rising star with roots deeply embedded in the quaint corners of northwestern New Jersey. Meet Steph Amoroso, a multi-talented artist whose journey from dance to theater and finally to the realm of music has been nothing short of captivating. I had the pleasure of sitting down with Steph this past week, where she shared her story, inspirations, and aspirations that have shaped her artistic identity.

Born and raised in New Jersey, Steph's creative journey began at a young age. She was a passionate dancer, singer, and actor, embracing the stage with fervor. Dance was initially her primary focus, but as time unfolded, she discovered her affinity for acting and performing. High school marked a pivotal turning point as Steph delved deeper into theater and choir, setting her on a path that eventually led her to the prestigious NYU Tisch School of the Arts.

After graduating, Steph found herself in a unique opportunity, singing at the Off Broadway show "Sleep No More." This experience introduced her to the world of songwriting, a journey that would eventually become her primary focus. With determination, Steph navigated the challenges of the pandemic, utilizing platforms like Instagram to connect with fans through her live concerts, building an online following, and paving the way for a new chapter in her music career.

Steph's transition from the stage to the music scene was an evolution fueled by determination and unwavering confidence. “The first time I was ever in a studio recording a single I was going in, like, oh, yeah, I've done this before. And even if I didn't know what the hell I was doing, I pretended like I did. It's very much that like, fake it till you make it type thing. But I think it really is true. And it can help in a lot of ways because it sort of just forces you to be like, No, this is where I'm supposed to be. I know what I want. I know what I'm doing. Even if I've never done it before, I'll figure it out. And I have confidence that you know, I have people around me that will also help me and not judge me for not knowing something you know, technical about recording whatever it may be. But I really think it's just I've I've approached everything Like, yeah, I've done this before, even if I very much have not. But you know, it kind of goes back to what I was saying to about like that confidence and just finding that in whatever way you can and learning from it, whether it you know, the mistakes are just as important as the triumphs. And I think just reminding yourself that you are in the place you're at wherever that is, for a reason. It's not an accident that, you know, I found myself in a studio, I was like, this is where I'm supposed to be at this time. And just knowing that helps me at least to be confident in what I'm doing,” Steph shares. This fearless attitude allowed her to overcome challenges, step into unfamiliar territories, and embrace her musical calling.

The pandemic, while a challenging period for many, served as a cocoon for Steph's creative transformation. With the advantage of the virtual realm, hosting live concerts on Instagram aided Steph in connecting and building her audience. This period not only built an online following but also served as a bridge to live performances when the world began to reopen.

"All the songs that ended up on the album I had started writing during the pandemic," Steph explains about her debut album, “Road to Eden,” released this past May. With meticulous care, she crafted her music, drawing inspiration from her personal experiences, nostalgic influences, and a desire to blend classic sensibilities with modern nuances. Her music has been likened to a blend of early Taylor Swift and 90s alternative rock, a unique fusion that reflects her eclectic taste.

Steph's authenticity shines through her songwriting process. Drawing inspiration from artists like Joni Mitchell, Alanis Morissette, and Sheryl Crow, she delves into her own experiences, crafting songs that capture both vulnerability and empowerment. "I would say my writing process is very much I sort of have to go through something, be okay with it, and then write about it," Steph reveals. Her writing style is an ode to her willingness to explore the depth of her emotions and transform them into melodies that resonate.

As a strong advocate for women's empowerment and self-expression, Steph infuses her music with a message of confidence and authenticity. Her nostalgic inclinations breathe life into her songs, weaving a tapestry of stories that transcend time. From Jersey to the city that never sleeps, Steph Amoroso's journey is a testament to the power of following one's passion, embracing change, and finding solace in music's timeless embrace.

With her debut album, “Road to Eden,” released in May and exciting projects on the horizon, Steph Amoroso's musical journey is one that promises to captivate hearts and souls alike. As she continues to blend nostalgia with modernity, her melodies are an invitation to rediscover the joy of storytelling through music. So keep an ear out for Steph's enchanting tunes, for they carry not just melodies but a glimpse into the very heart of an artist's evolution.

You can catch Steph LIVE at The Stone Pony on Sunday, August 13th, 2023.

Stream "Road to Eden" & keep up with Steph Amoroso here!

All photos provided by Steph Amoroso & Sydney Sileno.