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Arts & Culture
22 March 2025

Gracie Abrams: The Rise Of A Pop Powerhouse

With accolades pouring in, Gracie Abrams connects with fans through music and meaningful causes.

Gracie Abrams is rapidly establishing herself as one of the most compelling singer-songwriters of her generation. With the release of her albums and impactful live performances, she has earned a dedicated fanbase and garnered critical acclaim.

From her early days in Los Angeles, where she began posting original music on social media, Abrams has emerged as a significant figure in the music industry. Her debut EP, minor, was released in July 2020, followed by another EP, This Is What It Feels Like in November 2021. The success of her two studio albums, Good Riddance released on February 24, 2023, and The Secret of Us on June 21, 2024, further solidified her presence in the competitive landscape of pop music.

On March 17, 2025, Abrams received the prestigious Breakthrough Artist of the Year Award at the iHeart Music Awards, marking a significant milestone in her emerging career. Her upcoming recognition includes the Hal David Starlight Award at the 54th Annual Songwriters Hall of Fame, scheduled for June 2025. Additionally, Abrams' collaboration with Taylor Swift on the song “us” from The Secret of Us earned her nominations for two Grammy Awards—Best New Artist in 2024 and Best Pop Duo/Group Performance in 2025.

Recently, Abrams enchanted audiences during the Los Angeles leg of her The Secret of Us tour at the Greek Theater. This performance stood out from her earlier acoustic show at Amoeba Music, illustrating her evolution as an artist with a growing fanbase filling larger venues. Fans united in their love for her music, creating an electrifying atmosphere.

Excitement overflowed before the show as fans donned ''Gracie-esque'' outfits, conversations buzzing with energy. Each song, whether it was the emotional “I Love You, I’m Sorry” or the infectious “Close to You,” had concert-goers singing along passionately. More than just a performance, it was a shared experience; sugar-coated with familiar melodies, Abrams' music conveys relatable themes of love, heartbreak, and friendship.

Audiences have resonated deeply with her vulnerable songwriting style and soft, whispery voice. Young adults and teenagers make up a significant portion of her fanbase, many of whom have followed Abrams for years. For long-time admirer Allison Lin, the relatable yet uplifting nature of Abrams' lyrics is exactly what draws her in. “I like to listen to her music because I think it’s relatable without being sad enough to make me spiral,” Lin said.

Another fan, Carson Mueller, noted his appreciation for the album Good Riddance, calling it one that evokes thought while remaining interesting to listen to. Produced by Aaron Dessner, known for his collaboration with Taylor Swift, the album brings deep, emotive songs to life.

In addition to her successful albums, a new track entitled “Risk” was released on May 1, 2024, followed by “Close to You” on June 7, 2024. The Secret of Us debuted at number two on the U.S. Billboard 200 chart and achieved over a billion streams on Spotify, marking a remarkable achievement for the young artist.

In September 2024, Abrams commenced her The Secret of Us tour, completing its European leg and gearing up to perform in Asia starting April 2025. The deluxe version of her album was released on October 18, 2024, featuring new tracks and live recordings.

Beyond her music, Abrams actively engages with social causes. Recently, she performed an intimate acoustic set for American Express Member Week on March 21, 2025, at the Brooklyn Paramount. The event not only celebrated Warner Imaging's 175th anniversary but also contributed 100% of ticket profits to World Central Kitchen, an organization providing food relief. This act underscores the artist's commitment to using her platform for charitable purposes.

The Brooklyn Paramount was filled to capacity with fans enjoying the warm ambiance of the impressive venue. Set at 2,700, this intimate concert provided the audience with a chance to connect with Abrams in a meaningful way. The performance was in stark contrast to a typical arena show; without a full band, Abrams and her co-writer Aaron Dessner engaged the audience in a conversational manner between songs, sharing personal stories behind each one.

This unique format made for a genuinely enriching performance. Before delving into her setlist, Abrams encouraged her fans to sing out loud and enjoy the moment. The evening featured fun interactions and the nostalgic inclusion of her earlier tracks. Fans were thrilled, translating their enthusiasm into lively responses throughout the show.

Abrams delivered an engaging encore performance to fan-favorite “That’s So True,” showcasing her enduring rapport with her audience. “Thank you guys so much for coming out,” she expressed, embodying gratitude and genuine appreciation for the support she receives.

As the rising tide of female representation in music festivals continues to grow, Abrams stands at the forefront. With her appearance at major events, including Lollapalooza, Osheaga, and Glastonbury, she represents a pivotal shift in a traditionally male-dominated industry. These festivals, often celebrating the intersection of pop and rock, allow her to shine alongside artists like Olivia Rodrigo and Sabrina Carpenter.

Abrams’ presence at these events signals a new era where female artists capture the limelight, reaffirming the ideals of inclusivity and diversity in entertainment. As the trend continues, there’s hope that her journey will inspire generations to come.

Ultimately, Gracie Abrams is not just an artist but a movement, fostering connection through her relatable lyrics and engaging performances. For everyone who cherishes her music, the anticipation of what’s next is palpable, as she continues to redefine the landscape of pop music.