“Are we smart and strong enough to keep this scales in balance, ever? What have we done?” - Van Vernon (To be with you)
About Van Vernon
Short Bio
Music has been a long and winding road for Vernon. His journey began at just 15 years old when he bought an old, dusty guitar from a schoolmate for $50 — a small purchase that would ignite a lifelong passion. Soon after, he formed his first band, The Horses, with his best friend. The band performed only one concert before dissolving, but the spark for music had already been lit.
After leaving his hometown, Vernon settled near Lake Constance, where he spent several years playing bass in various bands. However, life gradually shifted his focus elsewhere. Becoming a father and taking on new responsibilities meant that music slowly moved into the background.
That changed dramatically in June 2015.
While hiking over the Sertig Pass, Vernon experienced a moment of clarity that would redefine his life. As he approached his 45th birthday, he realized that music was not simply a hobby but his true calling. That turning point is captured in the song “Forty Five” from his debut album For Personal Reasons.
Determined to pursue music seriously, Vernon returned home with a clear vision and a collection of new songs. What followed was a journey filled with challenges, learning curves, and unexpected detours — but also creative breakthroughs.
“If I had known what hardships and obstacles would be necessary to reach my goal, I probably wouldn’t have started,” Vernon admits. “But I did — and I kept going.”
In recent years, Vernon has entered a particularly productive chapter, recording music in a small cottage nestled in the Alpstein mountains. There he created two albums that reflect different sides of his artistic voice.
His debut, For Personal Reasons, is an intimate and reflective folk album with strong autobiographical elements. The upcoming Welcome and Goodbye builds on that emotional foundation while expanding the sound into something richer, more layered, and more rock-oriented.
Despite the stylistic evolution, the heart of Vernon’s music remains the same: honest storytelling and emotional depth.
“I wanted both albums to carry a real feeling,” he says. “That’s something I hope people can hear — not only in the music, but in the lyrics as well.”
With “Ride On,” Van Vernon offers listeners both a powerful anthem and a reminder that sometimes the bravest thing a person can do is simply keep moving forward.
Welcome and Goodbye will be released this summer.
Press photos
