New England singer/songwriter Valerie Barretto has a way with constructing a catchy hook. Her lastest release, “You Problem” is proof of that. It’s the hook that pulls you in, but it’s the relatable lyrics that keep you interested right up unitl the final note. Barretto prides herself on using honest, real life situations, stories and experiences in her songs.

Listening to Valerie’s vocals is like opening a box of assorted chocolates. You will hear hints of a variety of genres. And it’s no wonder, as she grew up with Johnny Cash, musical theater, pop/rock and then was classically trained. Some vocal moments are rich, some sweet, some darker, some bolder, but all very palatable. So, dig in and enjoy this talented artist from the South Shore. Meet my Local Catch of the Week, Valerie Barretto from Hanson, MA, find out where she is performing and how to follow her social media, below.

Volume Up On Valerie
What is your song about/how did it come to be: “You Problem” is about making yourself a priority when it comes to dating. Learning to recognize wishy washy behavior and know you deserve better than a “maybe”… just because they’re unsure, doesn’t mean you have to be! My whole album is about heartbreak, growth, and new love. It’s a full 180!
Barretto Bio
From: Hanson, MA

Current single: “You Problem” from my full length album Hurt & Healing

What lead you to music: I have always been drawn to music since a very young age. We had a piano in my house when I was a little kid and I would always play around on it

How old when you started: I was doing theatre in middle school, chorus’ and pop rock classes in high school…I started taking formal voice lessons when I was 13 all the way through college. I ended up majoring in music in college as well

First country song you learned: I don’t remember specifically but probably something from Johnny Cash. My Dad was a big Johnny Cash fan and would always have him on

Instruments played: I play guitar

How would you describe your sound: Down to earth, real. My lyrics aren’t sugar coated. They tell the truth, sometimes the hard truth but in a happy way. My lyrics are my life. They’re my memories. Good or bad, happy or sad…my adventures, my heartbreaks, my experiences…told in a way I believe people can relate to or get lost in. Feel connected to and even if it’s only for the duration…feel that they’re understood and not the only ones who have experienced heartbreak or loss. My next EP which I am in the process of writing/recording is all about adventure and life. Learning, loving, discovering…being grateful for who you are despite the bumps in the road along the way. I’m so excited to get this released

Who inspires you: Miranda Lambert. She was the one that inspired me to sit down and write an album. I take after her with her “hold nothing back” style. Also, Zach Bryan…his poetry and ability to fire out songs…I don’t know how he does it. I’ve written poetry my whole life so to see it so beautifully from a country artist is something really inspiring

Dream duet partner: Chris Stapleton

All- time favorite country song: This is a tough question…it might be Tin Man or Running Just In Case from Miranda Lambert or Sun to Me by Zach Bryan…

First country concert: Kenny Chesney, the GOAT!

If you weren’t a musician, what would you be doing: Oh gosh, well, definitely SOMETHING creative. I can’t pinpoint but I know I’m not the type to sit at a desk that’s for sure!

Day Job: I worked for an amazing non-profit performing arts center called The Center for Arts in Natick (TCAN) for a few years before making the leap to music full time in 2022. It was heartbreaking leaving but it was the right time. I loved the people, the organization and learned a lot and am so grateful for my time there. If you have the chance, go check them out!

Most proud moment: Finishing my first album and performing with my band for my album release show in September 22’ – so much time and hard work (and money lol) went into this album and to be on stage with almost 200 people in the crowd there to hear MY music….that was a crazy moment. It was my first time performing MY own music with a full band and it was very emotional for me

Crazy thing that happened in your music career: Getting to sing the Canadian and American anthems at Gillette Stadium…talk about wild!

Other things you like to do: I have ridden horses since I was about 2yrs old so you can find me on the trails around my house a lot, especially in the summer. I love to travel, be outdoors…I’m a summer bum for sure. Paddleboarding, kayaking, riding, bike riding…summertime is my time for sure. I’m still unsure why I still live in New England lol

Fun facts: Hmm…let’s see…I’m a big nerd. I love anything Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones…also a lot of people don’t know this about me but I am a classically trained vocalist…meaning I can sing opera…that surprises most people haha – I’ve practiced mixed martial arts on and off for the last ten+ years…and lastly, hmm, this is hard…I’m a huge movie buff…and I am a big Quentin Tarantino fan. This question makes me feel quite uninteresting lol

Mantra: “Have courage and be kind” – this has been my mantra for years. I even have it tattooed on my body. I believe courage and kindness are the two key elements to surviving this life. Nowadays it seems it takes more courage to be kind as well.
Veer Here For Valerie Shows
3/24: RIVERSHED, BRAINTREE 7-10PM

3/25: NEW WORLD TAVERN, PLYMOUTH 2-5PM

3/25: TOLSON’S TAP, PEMBROKE 7-10PM

3/26: RIVERSHED BRUNCH, BRAINTREE 11AM-2PM

3/30: RIVERSHED, SCITUATE 6-9PM

3/31: G PUB, PLYMOUTH 7-9PM (DUO)

4/1: RIVERSHED BRUNCH, SCITUATE 11AM-2PM

4/2: TOWNE TAVERN BRUNCH 11AM-2PM

4/7: STELLWAGEN BREWERY 5-8PM

4/8: TOLSON’S TAP, PEMBROKE 2-5PM

4/9: STATION 8, MARSHFIELD 10AM-2PM

4/13: PROOF 22, PLYMOUTH 8-11PM

4/14: RIVERSHED, SCITUATE 6-9PM

4/15: RIVERSHED, BRAINTREE 8-11PM

4/16: STATION 8, MARSHFIELD 11AM-2PM
The Bridge To Barretto
Connect with Valerie Barretto on her social media. Just click any of the platforms below, and follow her to keep up with her music and gigs.
Pics And Posts

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by valerie barretto music (@valeriebarrettomusic)

Another “Littles” feature! Everyone this is Mya! I met her at my last show at Brewery 44 and when she told me she loves...
Posted by Valerie Barretto Music on Monday, December 19, 2022
Are YOU a Catch?
Every week, Kruser’s Local Catch highlights New England’s homegrown country music talent, and tells you where to catch them locally and in Nashville. Click here to view previous catches.

*Singer/Songwriters With Original Music: Please Submit For Consideration On The Local Catch By Emailing: [email protected]