Gracie Abrams on Her Deep Connection with Taylor Swift: A Life-Changing Friendship and Mentorship

Gracie Abrams, the talented 24-year-old singer-songwriter, recently spoke about her profound friendship with music icon Taylor Swift. In a candid interview on August 11, Abrams shared heartfelt insights into their unique bond, revealing how Swift has become both a mentor and a haven for her.

A Connection That Felt Preordained

Abrams described her first meeting with Swift as surreal yet deeply familiar. “When I met [Swift], it kind of felt like we had known each other already,” Abrams recalled, hinting at the overwhelming sense of comfort she felt in Swift’s presence. She admitted that part of this connection might be due to the “parasocial relationship thing”—a phenomenon where fans feel a deep connection to public figures through their work. This was especially poignant for Abrams, as she had spent much of her life listening to Swift’s music. “I’ve grown up with her voice in my headphones my entire life,” she added, underscoring the significance of their meeting.

Taylor Swift: Mentor and Friend

More than just a musical influence, Swift has become a trusted mentor for Abrams. The “Risk” singer shared how Swift has been a constant source of support, particularly when it comes to navigating the complexities of a music career. “She’s a safe place to land any time I’ve ever had any questions about anything,” Abrams said, highlighting the depth of their relationship.

Beyond offering career advice, Swift has also provided practical tips for life on tour. Abrams revealed that Swift recommended an acupressure mat to help alleviate back pain, a common issue for performers who spend long hours on stage. “It turned things around for me,” Abrams noted, expressing gratitude for Swift’s thoughtful guidance.

A Life-Changing Experience on the Eras Tour

Abrams first joined Swift on the North American leg of the Eras Tour in April 2023, an opportunity she never expected. “I had absolutely zero expectation of being included in that capacity,” she told The Sunday Times. However, the experience proved to be transformative, both professionally and personally.

Despite some setbacks—like a canceled set in Cincinnati due to bad weather—Abrams and Swift’s bond only grew stronger. The pair even performed together during Swift’s London Eras Tour concert, marking another memorable moment in their friendship.

Reflecting on the tour, Abrams told at the 2024 Grammys that the opportunity to open for Swift was “beyond my wildest dreams.” She added, “Being a part of that tour in a tiny way has changed the course of my life in so many ways… She’s just the most unbelievable performer and the most generous friend.” Abrams emphasized how much Swift’s belief in her has meant, saying, “It’s not lost on me that her belief in me has just…done a lot. So, I’m deeply grateful to her, forever.”

Collaborating on Music: The Magic of “Us”

Their friendship extends beyond the stage. Swift and Abrams collaborated on the song “Us” from Abrams’ second studio album, The Secret of Us, released in June 2023. The two co-wrote the track, and Abrams has fond memories of the creative process. In a May post on X (formerly Twitter), Abrams wrote, “Some of the most fun I’ve ever had in my whole life was writing this song together. hands down. I am currently smiling and sweating thinking about it and I’ll never get over the shock of seeing this one on the tracklist.”

The collaboration was a dream come true for Abrams, who later performed “Us” with Swift during the London Eras Tour show on June 23. Their onstage chemistry was palpable, further cementing their musical partnership and friendship.

Looking Ahead: Rejoining the Eras Tour

The future looks bright for Abrams as she prepares to rejoin Swift for the final North American leg of the Eras Tour in late 2024. The opportunity to once again share the stage with her mentor and friend is something Abrams undoubtedly cherishes, as it represents not only a significant career milestone but also a continuation of a deep and meaningful friendship.

Gracie Abrams’ journey with Taylor Swift is a testament to the power of genuine connections in the music industry. Their bond, built on mutual respect, shared experiences, and a love for music, continues to inspire Abrams as she carves out her path in the industry—guided by the wisdom and support of one of the biggest stars in the world.