Gracie Abrams on Digital Detox and Her Uneasy Path to Stardom

HAMBURG, Germany — Gracie Abrams, the rising pop star behind the chart-topping album “The Secret of Us,” opens up about her journey through celebrity challenges and the need for digital disconnection during a video call from her hotel room.

The 25-year-old singer-songwriter emphasized the importance of stepping away from social media, saying, “You can literally do so much when you’re not scrolling!” By focusing on offline activities, Abrams aims to enrich her life experiences, including reading books and engaging in creative pursuits like needlepoint.

Her latest single, “That’s So True,” dominated the UK charts, spending most of January at No. 1. The album has also seen significant success in the U.S., reflecting her continued rise in the industry, a journey that started with a viral hit in 2020.

“In my songs, I talk very openly about how I feel. It’s like when I’m writing, I’m talking to myself,” Abrams explained. Yet she grapples with the effects of online engagement, acknowledging that the constant influx of unsolicited opinions can be mentally draining.

Despite her popularity, Abrams has encountered the darker side of fame, including overzealous fans. “Ninety percent of the time it’s really sweet introductions, or no crossing any lines with physical touch. But if you experience it even once, your guard can go up,” she said, addressing the precarious balance between audience connection and personal boundaries.

Having collaborated with notable artists like Taylor Swift and the National’s Aaron Dessner, Abrams reveals a commitment to maintaining an authentic connection with her fans while managing the pressures of unexpected success. “It’s definitely not halted full stop,” she said of her interactions with her audience. “But honestly, mentally I don’t benefit from engaging heavily in the way I used to.”

Her mental health journey mirrors her growth as an artist. After starting therapy, she’s navigated her anxiety surrounding public performance, gradually overcoming fears through exposure. “The first shows I ever played were over Zoom during the pandemic,” she recalled, describing her early performances as essential learning experiences.

Abrams also shared her perspective on the political sphere, expressing pride in her participation in supporting candidates like Kamala Harris during the election campaign. “What I felt at that rally … was real strength in gathering,” she said, emphasizing the importance of community in times of turmoil.

As she prepares to write new material while on tour, Abrams anticipates exploring broader themes in her songwriting. “Most of those songs from that week are not about relationships. They’re about the fact that LA just burned down,” she explained, showcasing her evolving perspective on the world around her.

Abrams continues to adapt to her new reality, stating, “Being proved wrong about what was the scariest thing in the world to me at the time has made me really excited to be wrong about everything else.” She remains dedicated to her craft and to her fans, eager to explore uncharted musical territories.