Gracie Abrams, the emerging pop sensation, has recently unveiled her third studio album titled ‘Daughter from Hell,’ released on 17 July 2026. Amidst the excitement surrounding the new record, the 26-year-old singer-songwriter took a candid approach to discuss her complex feelings about some tracks, particularly the song “Look at My Life.”
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During an appearance on Jake Shane’s podcast ‘Therapuss’ on 20 August, Abrams admitted that her emotional investment in her music can affect her perception of it. She shared that “Look at My Life” was particularly challenging for her to embrace after its creation, as it was penned during a difficult time in her life. “I really didn’t like that song until recently,” she disclosed, reflecting on the struggles she faced with the track’s emotional weight.
Abrams explained that the song’s poignant origins made it hard for her to listen to it without reliving the painful moments that inspired its lyrics. “I wrote it when I was not feeling good,” she recalled, emphasising the impact that one’s emotional state can have on the creative process.
The singer often feels that she requires some time away from her own work before she can listen with a critical ear. “I think I have recency bias with writing,” she remarked. After finishing a song, she often puts it aside temporarily. This strategy allows her to revisit it with a fresher perspective. “Sometimes after writing something, I have to put it away for a while,” Abrams stated, highlighting her approach towards her art.
Despite her initial reluctance to engage with “Look at My Life,” her long-time collaborator, Aaron Dessner, encouraged her to reconsider the track. “Aaron was like, ‘I think this song is really great. Maybe revisit it?’” she recalled. It took several months, approximately six, before she felt ready to listen again without feeling overwhelmed by past emotions. “I’m very glad that it resurfaced,” she confirmed, indicating that her eventual acceptance of the song was a significant moment for her.
Abrams is not alone in her struggle to embrace her creations fully. She mentioned other tracks, particularly “Mess It Up,” as songs she had previously struggled with. In a humorous twist, she shared her frustrations with fans who insistently request certain songs at her performances. “There are a few that I’ve expressed my grievances towards,” she said. At times, she feels like an audience is somewhat demanding, akin to “someone standing outside your house with a pitchfork and torches,” imploring her to play favoured tracks.
The conversation surrounding her evolving relationship with her work resonates with many artists who grapple with their own emotional ties to their creations. It highlights how time and distance can influence an artist’s appreciation of their music, ultimately allowing for growth and reflection.
Abrams’ ability to navigate her feelings about her work is indicative of her maturity as a songwriter. As the music industry evolves, artists like her continue to share their personal journeys through their creations, making their music even more relatable for their audience.
As ‘Daughter from Hell’ continues to garner attention, fans and listeners can look forward to more insights from Abrams about her artistic process. Her openness about the complexities of her song-writing journey offers a glimpse into the emotional landscape that fuels her music.
With new episodes of ‘Therapuss’ airing weekly on Netflix and Spotify, listeners can follow along with Abrams’ journey as she continues to explore her unique artistic voice.