ON BEAT: Via Crowe

Via Crowe, from Via Crowe's Instagram

Belmont student and artist Via Crowe is making her mark on Nashville with a folk-inspired sound and upcoming performances across the city.

Crowe, who transferred to Belmont this year, is part of a new wave of musicians shaping the campus’ music scene. Blending indie-pop roots with a growing love for folk music, she brings heartfelt lyrics through a voice that carries both grit and honesty.

“I think it’s so important to write from experience,” Crowe said. “You have to live to write. Being comfortable and vulnerable with yourself and your emotions is step No. 1 of being an actual artist.”

Her songwriting reflects that philosophy. Early singles like “Unfinished” and “Honeydew” reflect her personal growth, while her upcoming track, "Chimney,” explores the topics of identity and confidence. Crowe called this upcoming track her “favorite child” and plans to release it later this fall.

Music has been a part of Crowe’s life since childhood. Growing up in Asbury Park, New Jersey, she found inspiration in the local scene and her grandfather, who first introduced her to some classic records. From there she sang in choirs, trained in classical and jazz music and toured Italy as a teenager. Those experiences shaped a voice that can move between styles while staying rooted in storytelling.

“I started out writing angsty songs when I was 13, but I’ve learned since then,” Crowe said. “Now, I focus on the lyrics. If the lyrics aren’t good, it’s not a good song.”

Crowe’s influences range from Bob Dylan and Simon & Garfunkel, to Adele and Amy Winehouse, a blend reflected in her work. She hopes to release music in a variety of styles, a goal she sees as both ambitious and freeing.

“I want to look back on my career and be able to say I wrote an album in every genre,” she said. “It would be a challenge worth taking on.”

After posting clips of her work online, Crowe received messages from high school students who connected with her lyrics about change and uncertainty. Some even asked her for advice on self-advocation. 

“That was when I realized music really does make a difference,” Crowe said. “I want people to hear my songs and feel less alone.” 

In addition to recording and performing, Crowe hopes to bring her nonprofit organization to Belmont. Working with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Crowe plans to host events and advocate for mental health.

“It’s about giving people a safe space,” Crowe said. “If I can encourage that, then I’m doing something right.”

This semester specifically, she hopes to expand her catalog and collaborate with classmates. Eventually, she hopes to step onto larger stages in Nashville and beyond.

“I want to keep growing and never stay in one box,” Crowe said.

At Belmont, where aspiring musicians surround her everyday, that vision feels within reach. For Crowe, it is only the beginning of a journey that blends vulnerability, discipline and a sound that is uniquely her own.

Crowe will take the stage at The Coliseum on Friday and The Vinyl Lounge on Saturday, with more dates to be announced.

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This article was written by Ava Kellner Pence