Sweet, Salty, and Unapologetically Bold

New York City-based singer-songwriter Shara Strand is ushering in a vibrant new chapter with the release of her latest single, “Salty & Sweet,” out now. A shimmering blend of retro inspiration and modern polish, the track captures the magnetic pull of nostalgia while firmly planting itself in today’s pop landscape.

Drawing heavily from the sonic palette of the late ’70s and ’80s, “Salty & Sweet” is infused with glossy production, cinematic textures, and an unmistakable sense of fun. Strand teamed up with producer Gregory “Phace” Fils-Aimé at Engine Room to craft a sound that feels both timeless and immediate. The result is a track that echoes the bold, colorful energy of the past while maintaining a sleek, contemporary edge reminiscent of artists like Dua Lipa.

But beyond its infectious beat and polished soundscape, “Salty & Sweet” is rooted in something deeper: a feeling. The song taps into a collective longing for a simpler, more connected time, before the constant buzz of social media, when friendships were nurtured through shared, in-person experiences. It’s a sonic time capsule that recalls afternoons spent at the mall, movie nights with friends, and the joy of discovering music together in the same room.

For Strand, that emotional core is essential to her artistry. Based in New York City, she balances multiple roles as an artist, entrepreneur, and mother, channeling her real-life experiences into music that resonates on a personal level. Her ability to weave authenticity into her work has become a defining characteristic, allowing listeners to connect with her songs beyond the surface.

“Salty & Sweet” also marks a continuation of the momentum Strand has been building in recent years. Following the release of her album Love Forever and a sold-out performance at The Green Room 42, she has steadily carved out a space for herself as an artist whose music feels both intimate and culturally relevant. Each release further refines her sound, blending emotional honesty with a polished pop sensibility.

Visually, Strand brings the spirit of “Salty & Sweet” to life through a playful, fashion-forward collaboration with New York City photographer Andrew Werner. The accompanying imagery leans into iconic ’80s aesthetics, featuring bold colors, vibrant eyeshadows, and expressive styling that mirrors the carefree confidence of the era. It’s a visual extension of the song’s message—one that celebrates individuality, self-expression, and unapologetic joy.

At its core, “Salty & Sweet” is about embracing duality. It’s a celebration of confidence and playfulness, of leading with kindness while maintaining a strong sense of self. Strand describes the track as a reflection of her own life and work—an embodiment of balance, ambition, and authenticity. “It represents my work, my life, and my drive,” she shares, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded while stepping fully into one’s power.

That ethos extends beyond music into Strand’s entrepreneurial ventures. She is also the founder of SHARA Makeup Studio, an Upper East Side space that reflects her signature aesthetic: polished, elevated, and effortlessly chic. Much like her music, the studio is an extension of her creative vision, offering a curated experience that celebrates beauty, confidence, and self-expression.

With “Salty & Sweet,” Strand invites listeners to tap into their most confident, carefree selves. “I hope listeners feel confident, sexy, and free when they hear this song,” she says. “It’s about stepping into your power, embracing every side of yourself, and having fun doing it.”

As she continues to evolve as an artist, “Salty & Sweet” stands as a bold reintroduction—one that captures where she’s been, where she’s going, and the vibrant energy that fuels her journey. More than just a single, it’s a mood, a memory, and a celebration of living fully in the moment.

“Salty & Sweet” is available on Spotify and all major streaming platforms.