Gracie Abrams, the rising singer-songwriter known for her poignant lyrics and soft sound, is rapidly redefining her career as she embraces her role as both artist and persona. On January 26, 2025, the release of her highly anticipated sophomore album, The Secret of Us, marked not just another entry in her discography but also showcased her evolution from the introspective singer writing songs alone to the confident performer captivating large audiences.
From her early years of shy songwriting to headlining shows, Abrams has undergone significant transformation. Speaking about her early days, the 24-year-old reflected, "I was singing as quietly as possible so no one could hear me," describing the trepidation she felt when first sharing her music. Yet, those days are now behind her, with the new album representing her most extroverted work yet. She noted, "This album, it’s louder, because I was touring whilst making it." Her growth clearly resonates through the spirited rhythms and vibrant tones of her current sound.
Not only does The Secret of Us encapsulate her personal expression, but it is steeped deeply in collaboration and emotional intensity. Largely penned with her friend Audrey Hobert, the songs reflect Abrams' experiences and the challenges of love and self-discovery faced by many twenty-somethings. "We totally took seeds of truth and then leaned to the drama of falling in love," she explained, showcasing her reflective approach to songwriting.
Her rise coincided with supporting none other than Taylor Swift on the North American leg of the mega-hit Eras tour. Performing in front of crowds exceeding 70,000, Abrams shared, "It’s like a safe space to feel everything very loudly," emphasizing the emotional connection and joy of the concert experience. This exposure likely seeped its way directly back to her album, propelling her work forward with vibrance.
Among the most talked-about songs from her new album is the lead single, "Risk," which she and Hobert wrote last August. The duo quickly found themselves caught up in the exhilaration of their creative process. Hobert described it, saying, "Writing together is unlike any drug... Everything came in one fluid motion.", which exemplifies the chemistry they share. Interestingly, Abrams noted the importance of their bond when working, asserting, "There’s nothing I wouldn’t tell either of them," referring to Hobert and producer Aaron Dessner.
Dessner, well-known for his work with The National and Taylor Swift, was instrumental during the recording process, welcoming Abrams' hands-on involvement. She confidently asserted, "I felt like I could hear the whole finished product in my head." This strong sense of ownership marks another milestone for Abrams as she matures as both songwriter and producer.
What's also fascinating is the personal touch Abrams injects during her live shows. On January 29, she hosted an exclusive performance aptly named "Gracie & Audrey" at the Echo, attended by approximately 300 devoted fans. The setlist featured intense moments, such as her biting track "Blowing Smoke," and capped the night with the eagerly awaited "Close to You." This song, having generated immense anticipation since she shared its snippet on Instagram seven years ago, poises her for continued success. "I didn't want to release it for seven years... though, they were right," she said with a grin when discussing its release, underscoring the deep connection she shares with her audience.
The irresistible appeal of "Close to You" culminated with its first-day performance on Spotify, where it accrued over 3 million streams. This attention highlights Abrams’ magnetic relationship with her fans, illustrated when she remarked, "It’s strange to see fans rallying so hard for a song I wrote when I was 16... I f— love them for caring." Abruptly, the presale for her upcoming tour revealed the depth of her fanbase; her show at L.A.'s renowned Greek Theatre sold out within hours, prompting her to add extra dates due to overwhelming demand.
"I knew we had Night 2 up our sleeves, but not Night 3," simple astonishment punctuated her words when recounting ticket sales. Sephardic revelations only illuminate her humble approach as she emphasized, "I don’t want to skip steps..." For Abrams, every moment of connection with her fans matters, turning performances from mere concerts to shared experiences. She reiterated her bond with fans, stating, "They’ll have me for as long as I can keep doing this."
Between her newfound collaborations, the heartfelt release of The Secret of Us, and her engagement with dedicated fans, Gracie Abrams continues to ascend as one of today's most promising voices. With every show, she not only shares her music but also invites her fans to participate, rendering the experience unforgettable. This alignment of musical exploration and emotional connection indicates not just the artist she has become, but the legacy she is beginning to build.