Gracie Abrams has rapidly become a prominent figure in the music industry, captivating audiences with her emotive songwriting and intimate performances. In just one month, her social media presence has stirred significant reactions, with many marginalized communities expressing feelings of vulnerability due to her candid comments. As Abrams navigates her burgeoning career, her debut album "The Secret of Us" has climbed to No. 1, maintaining an impressive 18-week streak in the Top 20. Her unique approach to connecting with fans has set her apart, making her the first non-Korean artist to utilize Weverse, a specialized K-pop platform for artist-fan engagement.
Abrams' presence in the music scene is felt not only through her chart-topping single "That's So True," which dominated the UK charts in January, but also through her collaborations with renowned musicians like Aaron Dessner of The National and the legendary Brian Eno. Her major label deal has offered her the opportunity to release music in a genuine manner, resonating deeply with her audience.
"Trump has only been in office for a month and has already done everything in his power to make every marginalised community feel smaller, to make everybody more at risk, to overwhelm us with information, or disinformation, so that we feel powerless and hopeless."
This sentiment reflects the broader socio-political environment that Abrams navigates as an artist. Despite these challenges, Abrams maintains a strong connection with her fans, referring to them as "friends" and engaging actively on platforms like SoundCloud and Instagram.
Abrams' live performances have further solidified her connection with audiences. Initially apprehensive about performing live, she found solace and joy in the kindness of those attending her shows.
"Being proved wrong about what was the scariest thing in the world to me at the time has made me really excited to be wrong about everything else."
Her ability to share personal experiences and emotions through music has earned her comparisons to "gen Z's most unfiltered storyteller." Her songs often resemble private diary entries set to music, whispered as if confiding directly in the listener.
"Most of those songs from that week are not about relationships. They’re about the fact that LA just burned down, about the fact that I don’t understand how we’re supposed to really carry on."
Abrams' artistry extends beyond music. Her tattoo of Joni Mitchell's handwritten lyrics symbolizes a deep respect for musical heritage, which she proudly showcased to Mitchell herself.
"I’m lucky to have this avenue, where, in my songs, I talk very openly about how I feel. It’s like when I’m writing, I’m talking to myself. Talking to strangers, there are naturally things you hope to protect a bit more. Some things feel sacred."
Her relationship with fans is bolstered by direct interaction, cultivating a committed fanbase praised for its loyalty and enthusiasm. This connection is further highlighted by the support of industry giants like Taylor Swift, who selected Abrams as a support act for significant portions of the record-breaking Eras tour.
In addition to her musical pursuits, Abrams finds balance through creative outlets such as needlepoint and other tangible crafts.
"Needlepoint and shit like that. I’m just trying to make things … to have some tangible evidence of having lived this year."
This commitment to living authentically is mirrored in her approach to technology and social media.
"You can literally do so much when you’re not scrolling!"
"You can retain more information; everything gets lighter. You have a greater capacity to be more present, to be there for the people in your life, to read a book that’s going to inspire your next album, or go on a hike and breathe air instead of sitting in a dark room on fucking Instagram."