Gracie Abrams, the rising pop sensation who had the privilege of opening for Taylor Swift on 49 of her record-breaking Eras Tour stops, is grappling with the emotions that come with the tour’s conclusion. As the world’s largest musical phenomenon in recent memory wrapped up earlier this month in Vancouver, Canada, Abrams opened up about her experience, the lessons she learned, and the emotional journey of being part of Swift’s iconic tour.
The Emotional Impact of the Eras Tour’s Conclusion
Abrams, now a certified pop star at just 25 years old, spoke candidly about the bittersweet end of the Eras Tour during an interview with Nylon for its December 2024 cover story.
“I’m feeling emotional and grateful and in a state of shock that we don’t, as a global community, get to experience that source of light anymore,” Abrams revealed, capturing the sentiment of countless fans who followed the tour.
Even after performing on the tour, Abrams admitted to joining millions of Swifties on Instagram to catch snippets of the shows she couldn’t attend herself. This habit speaks to the magnetic pull of Swift’s artistry, which transcended physical attendance and became a global phenomenon.
Behind the Scenes: A Family-Like Bond
Abrams described the final day of the tour as a deeply emotional moment for everyone involved.
“Everyone had been crying all day. It felt like the last day of school backstage,” she shared.
The backstage atmosphere was filled with camaraderie, as members of the team signed each other’s Eras Tour books, a heartfelt gesture that underscored the strong bonds formed during the journey.
Gracie Abrams’ Journey to Stardom
Once an up-and-coming indie artist, Abrams’ career trajectory skyrocketed during her time on the Eras Tour. Her ability to connect with audiences through her narrative-driven heartbreak pop earned her a loyal fanbase that overlaps significantly with Swift’s. Abrams’ breakout single, “That’s So True,” climbed the charts over the summer, cementing her status as a rising star in the pop music scene.
The “Taylor Swift Effect”
Abrams’ meteoric rise can partially be attributed to her proximity to Swift, who has a knack for elevating artists within her orbit. Abrams follows in the footsteps of stars like Shawn Mendes and Sabrina Carpenter, benefiting from what some fans dub the “Taylor Swift School of Career Growth.”
Abrams also collaborated with Aaron Dessner, a key producer behind Swift’s acclaimed albums Evermore and Folklore, which further solidified her connection to the Swiftiverse. Swift herself lent her voice to “Us,” a poignant track on Abrams’ latest album, The Secret of Us. This rare collaboration speaks volumes about Swift’s belief in Abrams’ talent.
Lessons from a Superstar
Performing as the opening act for one of the biggest tours in history provided Abrams with invaluable insights into pop superstardom.
“I’ve basically been studying [Taylor Swift] for a year and a half. Every time I’ve opened for her, I watch and learn,” Abrams said.
Even in casual conversations, Swift’s wisdom left a lasting impression on Abrams. The experience has not only shaped her artistry but also inspired her to strive for greatness in her own career.
The Eras Tour: A Cultural Milestone
With 149 stops and countless surprise songs, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour was a monumental event that redefined the music industry. It wasn’t just a concert series; it was a cultural moment that united fans across the globe. Gracie Abrams’ participation in this historic tour allowed her to connect with audiences on a massive scale and showcase her own artistry to millions.
Highlights from Abrams’ Setlist
Abrams used her time on stage to perform tracks from her EP, The Secret of Us, including fan-favorites like “Risk” and “Close to You.” These performances introduced her music to a broader audience, helping her transition from a niche indie artist to a mainstream star.
What’s Next for Gracie Abrams?
As the Eras Tour comes to a close, Abrams is stepping into the next chapter of her career with a newfound confidence and a larger platform. Fans are eagerly awaiting her future projects, which are sure to reflect the growth and inspiration she gained from her time alongside Taylor Swift.
Continuing the Momentum
Abrams is already making waves with her unique brand of heartbreak pop, characterized by honest lyrics and a female perspective that resonates deeply with listeners. With her talent, dedication, and the lessons learned from Swift, Abrams is poised to carve out her own legacy in the music industry.
FAQs
1. Who is Gracie Abrams?
Gracie Abrams is a 25-year-old singer-songwriter known for her narrative-driven heartbreak pop. She gained widespread recognition as an opening act for Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour.
2. What is the Eras Tour?
The Eras Tour is Taylor Swift’s record-breaking global concert series that celebrated her career spanning multiple albums and eras.
3. How did Gracie Abrams’ career benefit from the Eras Tour?
Opening for Taylor Swift allowed Gracie Abrams to showcase her music to a massive audience, significantly boosting her popularity and solidifying her status as a rising star.
4. Did Taylor Swift collaborate with Gracie Abrams?
Yes, Taylor Swift lent her voice to “Us,” a track on Abrams’ album The Secret of Us. Abrams also worked closely with Aaron Dessner, a frequent collaborator of Swift.
5. What songs did Gracie Abrams perform on the Eras Tour?
Gracie Abrams performed tracks from her EP, The Secret of Us, including popular songs like “Risk” and “Close to You.”
