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Musical Web Reveal: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse Music Creation Process

July 18, 2023

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse took the world by storm with its groundbreaking animation, immersive storytelling and captivating visuals . One of the key elements that contributed to the succe...

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Unleash an Icon: What Makes Rihanna's Music Legendary

June 12, 2023

Barbados-born superstar Rihanna has left an indelible mark on the music industry with her iconic sound, versatile talent, and fearless attitude. Her music has become a cultural phenomenon....

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Exploring Harry Styles’ Music Journey

May 31, 2023

Capturing millions with a unique sound and compelling personality in an ever-evolving world of contemporary music. Very few artists have been able to do it....

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Exploring Taylor Swift's Songwriting Process

May 25, 2023

Legendary singer-songwriter Taylor Swift has captivated the world with her haunting lyrics and infectious melodies. Behind her numerous chart hits lies an intriguing songwriting process.....

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Kiana Ledé - Goes 'Deeper' About Hard Work & Perseverance

May 18, 2023

Kiana Ledé has been rocking in the R&B scene and her latest single “Jealous” continues this trend. The other day, Sonical.ly had the chance to sit down and talk with Ledé about her musical journey.

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DJ Khalil - The Secrets to a 5x Grammy Award Winning Career as a Music Producer

May 18, 2023

Anyone within the hip-hop scene knows the name, DJ Khalil. He gained popularity for both his music-producing and DJing skills. The other day, Sonical.ly had a chance to sit down and talk with DJ Khal

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Ed Sheeran Successfully Defends Himself in Copyright Trial

May 7, 2023

Copyright infringement cases are very much on the rise in the music industry. Recently, Ed Sheeran was on the receiving end of one. Fortunately for him and the music industry as a whole, he won. Who

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How AI Technology Impacts Artists’ Rights

April 28, 2023

Artificial Intelligence (aka AI) is not a new thing. It has been used for various purposes like social media algorithms and Siri on your phone. However, for the first time, AI is being used in

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Who is Kiana Ledé?: The Story Behind the “Jealous” Singer

April 28, 2023

From Kidz Bop idol to R&B and pop singer, Kiana Ledé has fully planted herself within the music industry. The release of her latest single “Jealous” featuring Ella Mai adds to her growing achievements

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Breaking The Silence: A Look At Mental Health In The K-pop Industry

April 23, 2023

In the past few years, the K-pop culture has experienced a number of suicides, which has devastated the Korean entertainment industry. Sulli from f(x), Jonghyun from SHINee, Goo Hara from KARA, and

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Breaking Down The Genius of SZA’s Album ‘SOS’

April 20, 2023

Since SZA has released her latest album ‘SOS’, it has made a lot of buzz in the music industry. The album has received positive reviews for its combination of R&B, pop, and hip-hop and featured.....

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Korean Indie/Pop Rock Bands You Need To Know: Day6, The Rose, & HYUKOH

April 20, 2023

With K-pop bands like BTS, BLACKPINK, TWICE, and SEVENTEEN, Korean music has been on the rise over the past ten years. But Korea’s music culture doesn’t stop there....

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Unlocking the Art of Confessional Songwriting with Gracie Abrams

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In an industry bursting with noise, Gracie Abrams has mastered the rare art of making listeners lean in. Her songs, built on confessional storytelling, cut through the clutter by speaking directly to the heart. For music creators, her approach offers a powerful lesson: authenticity isn't just a buzzword—it’s your greatest asset.

What Is Confessional Writing?

Confessional writing isn’t about airing your laundry for shock value; it’s about vulnerability with purpose. Abrams crafts lyrics that feel like a trusted conversation, creating a space where listeners feel seen. From heartbreak to self-doubt, her songs resonate because they’re raw yet intentional.

For example, "21" paints a portrait of longing and regret with such specificity that it becomes universal. Lines like “You’re a memory I can’t lose” transform her personal experience into something we’ve all felt. This is the power of writing from the heart—it makes the particular relatable.

How Does She Do It?

Abrams employs techniques that you, as a music creator, can incorporate into your own work:

  1. Write With Brutal Honesty
    Instead of hiding behind metaphor, she lays her emotions bare. Ask yourself: what scares you about your truth? Start there. Vulnerability fosters connection.
  2. Use Details To Ground Your Story
    Abrams’ lyrics often include tactile, everyday details—like the smell of someone’s sweater or the feeling of cold December air. These small moments give her songs texture and authenticity. Think about the little details in your life; they can be the keys to unlocking big emotions.
  3. Keep It Conversational
    Abrams’ songs often read like diary entries or letters never sent. This conversational tone makes them intimate and accessible. Experiment with writing as if you’re speaking directly to one person. How would you say it?
  4. Pair Simplicity With Depth
    Her melodies are often understated, allowing her lyrics to shine. Remember, complexity isn’t always better. Strip your music back to its emotional core.

Why It Works

Abrams taps into what we crave most: connection. As a creator, you have the power to be a mirror for your audience’s emotions. Confessional writing isn’t about crafting a perfect hit—it’s about honesty, and that’s what makes songs timeless.

Your Turn: Get Vulnerable

Gracie Abrams’ success is a reminder that your story matters. When you embrace your flaws, heartbreaks, and joys, you create something truly unique. Start your next project by asking: What do I need to say?

Remember, your audience isn’t looking for perfection. They’re looking for you.