Gracie Abrams reflects on her rise as a pop star amid political tensions and risks.

During a video call from her hotel in Hamburg, Gracie Abrams shared her thoughts about stepping away from social media and embracing life offline. She passionately encouraged people to take a break from their screens, saying, “You can do so much when you’re not just scrolling! You can remember more and feel lighter. It allows you to be present for those around you, read an inspiring book, or enjoy a hike instead of just staying inside on Instagram.” Gracie has been finding joy in hands-on activities like needlepoint, hoping to create physical reminders of her experiences from the past year.

While many are familiar with the idea of a digital detox, Gracie’s message feels particularly relevant, especially considering her recent success. Her hit single “That’s So True” topped the UK charts for an extended period, and her album “The Secret of Us” has consistently ranked high in the charts for weeks. This kind of prolonged success is often seen in artists who have truly made it big in the pop world.

In the U.S., “The Secret of Us” has also made impressive strides, staying on the charts for 35 weeks, compared to just two weeks for her previous album. Gracie is currently on a global tour, performing in large venues until August, and she seems to be making the most of her experiences.

Gracie’s rise to fame started back in 2020 with her song “I Miss You, I’m Sorry,” which gained massive popularity during the pandemic thanks to its relatable lyrics and home-recorded video. Initially, she built her audience by engaging directly with fans on platforms like SoundCloud and Instagram, treating them as friends rather than followers. This open communication helped create a close-knit community around her music.

As she gained fame, Gracie adapted her approach, balancing her desire to connect with fans while maintaining her privacy. The songs in her latest album reflect brighter themes, inspired by new love and a collaborative effort with her best friend. However, she acknowledges that engaging with fans online has become less frequent for her mental well-being. The pressure of social media can lead to unwanted opinions that affect her mood, so she has chosen to be more selective about her interactions.

Despite a few uncomfortable experiences with overly enthusiastic fans, Gracie generally feels fortunate in her interactions. She acknowledges that while most encounters are positive, the occasional awkward moment can heighten her awareness and caution. Striking a balance between staying attuned to her audience and protecting her personal space is important to her.

Gracie’s path to success included collaborations with prominent artists, such as Aaron Dessner, known for his work with Taylor Swift. These connections have helped elevate her profile significantly. Her songs resonate with fans, many of whom feel like they’re getting a glimpse into her personal thoughts and feelings, even as she keeps her private life under wraps.

Having grown up in Hollywood, Gracie is familiar with the spotlight, thanks in part to her father, director JJ Abrams. Despite this, she struggled with her introverted nature and initially found the idea of a public career daunting. Through therapy and gradual exposure—starting with online performances during the pandemic—she has built her confidence.

This newfound confidence is evident when she performs, passionately engaging with her audience and addressing social issues, including the importance of voting in a recent election. Gracie viewed her participation in political rallies as a way to connect with people and promote collective strength, flipping the narrative of despair into one of hope.

As she creates new music, her writing reflects her thoughts on larger societal issues rather than just personal relationships. Gracie is excited about her evolving artistic journey, saying, “The more I realize what I’m capable of, the more I look forward to pushing myself.” She feels grateful for the opportunities she has had and aims to continue growing as an artist while navigating the complexities of fame.

Gracie Abrams will be starting her UK and Ireland tour in early March, with her recent album “The Secret of Us” available now.