In the ever-evolving world of pop music, certain artists manage to stand out with their raw talent, authenticity, and connection to listeners. Gracie Abrams is one of those names that has been buzzing in music circles and beyond. At just 24 years old, Abrams has proven herself to be a force to be reckoned with, blending indie-pop sounds with deeply personal lyrics. With her sophomore album The Secret of Us making waves and a coveted spot as an opener on Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, now is the perfect time to discover what makes Gracie Abrams so special.
Early Beginnings
Gracie Abrams grew up in Los Angeles, surrounded by creativity—her father is acclaimed filmmaker J.J. Abrams (Armageddon, Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker), and her mother, Katie McGrath (Duster, America Divided, 100 Years) is a renowned producer. But Gracie’s path wasn’t predetermined by her Hollywood lineage. Instead, her love for music began organically when she started writing songs as a child. For Gracie, songwriting became a form of self-expression and a way to process emotions, a habit that has carried through her career.
Her journey began humbly—writing songs in her bedroom and uploading them to platforms like Instagram and SoundCloud. Her introspective lyrics and raw delivery resonated with listeners, earning her a devoted fanbase. In 2019, Abrams released her debut single, “Mean It”, which quickly showcased her knack for emotional storytelling.
After studying international relations at Barnard College in New York, she realized her true calling lay in music. Leaving academia behind, Abrams released her first EP, minor, in 2020, featuring hits like “I miss you, I’m sorry” and “21”. These tracks cemented her signature bedroom-pop aesthetic, filled with wistful melodies and intimate lyrics. Abrams continued her ascent with 2021’s This Is What It Feels Like, featuring standout tracks like “Feels Like” and “Rockland”, a collaboration with The National’s Aaron Dessner.
A Signature Sound: Vulnerability Meets Versatility
Gracie Abrams’ music feels like reading a page from her diary. Known for her “devastatingly honest” lyrics, she captures love, heartbreak, and the complexities of human connection with a rare emotional depth. Her tracks range from soft, melancholic ballads to catchy pop-infused anthems, making her a favorite for every mood—whether you’re on a solo drive or hosting a late-night jam session with friends.
Her 2023 debut album, Good Riddance, solidified her reputation as a rising star, earning her a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards. But it’s her sophomore effort, The Secret of Us, that has truly catapulted her into the spotlight—earning her a second nomination for Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards.
The Taylor Swift Connection
It’s impossible to talk about Gracie Abrams without mentioning her friendship with Taylor Swift. A lifelong Swiftie, Abrams was invited to open for select U.S. dates on the Eras Tour in 2023. Their friendship blossomed behind the scenes and eventually resulted in a collaboration on “Us,” a standout track from The Secret of Us.
“Gracie’s writing mixes fragility with introspection in a way that I really relate to,” Swift shared in an interview with Rolling Stone, solidifying Abrams’ status as one of pop’s most promising storytellers.
Her success mirrors other breakout artists like Sabrina Carpenter, who also opened for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour. While Carpenter leans toward upbeat pop, Abrams’ introspective style offers a refreshing contrast, proving there’s room for a variety of voices in the pop music industry.
While Abrams’ tour with Swift has introduced her music to a global audience, she’s proven she’s not just a supporting act—she’s a star in her own right.
Collaborations and Influences
Abrams has frequently worked with Aaron Dessner, the producer behind Taylor Swift’s folklore and evermore. Their creative synergy has given her music a cinematic quality, with lush arrangements that elevate her poignant lyrics.
Abrams draws inspiration from legends like Joni Mitchell, Simon & Garfunkel, and Kate Bush, as well as contemporary artists like Phoebe Bridgers, Lorde, and Taylor Swift. Her sound blends introspective lyricism with haunting melodies, creating songs that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Her music often captures the complexities of love, heartbreak, and self-reflection. Tracks like “Mess It Up” and “That’s So True” showcase her ability to turn vulnerability into art, resonating with fans who see their own experiences mirrored in her songs.
Why You Should Listen
Gracie Abrams isn’t just another pop artist; she’s a storyteller who wears her heart on her sleeve. Her songs like “Close to You” and “I Love You, I’m Sorry” resonate because they are unflinchingly honest, making listeners feel seen and understood. Her ability to blend introspection with universal themes of love and loss is what sets her apart.
Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering her music, Gracie Abrams is an artist you won’t want to overlook. With her star on the rise, there’s no better time to add her songs to your playlist and join the journey of one of pop’s most exciting new voices.
What’s Next for Gracie?
With her second album dominating the charts, over 35.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify, another Grammy nomination under her belt, and plans for new music already underway, the future looks bright for Gracie Abrams. As she wraps up her run on the Eras Tour in December, Abrams is set to go on her own The Secret of Us Tour early 2025.
So, what are you waiting for? Dive into The Secret of Us and discover why Gracie Abrams is the breakout star everyone’s talking about.
