Lucy Dacus has officially confirmed her romantic relationship with fellow musician and boygenius bandmate Julien Baker, bringing to light rumors surrounding their connection. Dacus made this announcement during a recent interview with The New Yorker, coinciding with her upcoming solo album titled Forever Is A Feeling, which is set to release on March 28, 2025.
Journalist Amanda Petrusich reported on this relationship, noting Dacus's insights as she prepares to share an album deeply inspired by her romance with Baker. Dacus expressed, "It’s been interesting, because I want to protect what is precious in my life, but also to be honest, and make art that's true." This sentiment captures the delicate balance the artists are trying to maintain between their public and private lives.
Despite public appearances together since boygenius went on indefinite hiatus after their Grammy success, it wasn't until now, with the release of her album on the horizon, Dacus has chosen to speak openly about their relationship. Fans have often speculated about the nature of their bond, but most have been respectful of their privacy. Dacus acknowledged, "It only takes a handful to make your life feel like a really easily threatened thing." It highlights her desire for integrity, both personally and artistically.
One of the more evocative tracks on the new album is titled Most Wanted Man, which includes lyrics referencing Baker's hometown of Memphis. Dacus pointedly remarked, "Maybe a healthier way to think about it is ... it’s not actually fragile. These songs are about different people. But, you know, ‘Most Wanted Man in West Tennessee’ — what are you gonna do?" This lyric not only shows Dacus's affection but also her knack for intertwining personal experiences with her music.
Dacus, 29, and Baker, also 29, now share their home base of Los Angeles along with their fellow boygenius member Phoebe Bridgers. Dacus recounted moments spent at the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino—where, as it turns out, they have memberships gifted by Bridgers for Dacus's birthday. Dacus fondly remembered, "We have memberships because Phoebe gave them to us for my birthday." Such intimate details reveal how embedded their relationships are, both personally and professionally.
While Dacus navigates these personal dynamics, she has made it clear she views her relationships holistically. She humorously stated, "How are you doing romance without friendship? I can’t ... someone that's not my friend? Are you serious?" For her, intertwining friendship, professional collaboration, and love is not just preferable but fundamental.
Even as both artists move forward with their work, Dacus hinted at the future of boygenius, indicating the trio isn't planning to release new music anytime soon after the tremendous success of their 2023 album, The Record. "The decision to take time off came even before the record came out. We always said, ‘One year,’" Dacus shared, emphasizing the need to protect their friendship and creative energies.
Meanwhile, fans are eager for both Dacus's Forever Is A Feeling, which encapsulates her personal narrative with Baker, and Baker’s collaborative album with TORRES, Send A Prayer My Way, releasing on April 18, 2025. The anticipation for these projects marks this,” their respective attempts to connect and express through their art.
The story of Lucy Dacus and Julien Baker’s relationship, coupled with the excitement surrounding their musical endeavors, offers fans unique insights not only about the artists themselves but also about the transcendent nature of love, art, and collaboration. It remains to be seen what both artists will reveal through their upcoming projects, but one thing is certain: their bond will undoubtedly continue to influence their work.
