DescriptionA relatively unknown artist from the United States, Caroline Vreeland rose to fame in the mid-1990s, when she began to exhibit controversial covers of racist or hate-themed songs. In an era when the image was everything, Vreeland’s provocative, politically incorrect covers challenged mainstream audiences while placing her as an original voice in the industry. She achieved widespread popularity in the United States and throughout Europe, touring extensively and receiving critical acclaim. Though her public profile gradually declined in later years, Age of Consent remains a highly respected album in the American landscape of pop music.
Background & CareerVreeland were born in Germantown, New York, and grew up in Buffalo, New York. Her parents were Russian immigrants who had both German and Irish heritage, and she was raised in what was then called the “Ansylvania Dutch Heritage Village.” As a teen, Vreeland’s notoriety preceded her career, as her performance as a 16-year-old in a talent show drew the attention of R&B singer Fats Domino. Domino reportedly approached Vreeland with the offer to become his backup artist during his band’s European tour, which he eventually signed to.
Following her exposure in the R&B scene, Vreeland pursued a variety of musical avenues, working with everyone from the Bangles to the Fats Dominoes of the world. Eventually, though, her focus turned to writing, drawing, performing, and recording. In an era defined by sexual innocence, Vreeland sought to present sexual subjects in an artful and empowering manner, exploring issues of consent, age, and identity while still providing her audience with her unique sound. A Nationality / Partner album, released in 1998, was instrumental in the rekindling of interest in Vreeland’s work, which remained consistent for the remainder of her career.