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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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Show Me The Money: South Korea’s No. 1 Rap Competition

April 10, 2023

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WONHO: Rising Success After Departure From Monsta X

April 8, 2023

In October 2019, member of the K-pop group Monsta X, WONHO, faced allegations of drug usage, resulting in his departure from the group. Fans were disheartened by the news of him leaving and wondered..

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BMI’s Court Case Win Helps Songwriters in the Live Music Industry

April 1, 2023

Songwriters, composers, and publishers have long been underpaid when it comes to the live concert industry. However, a successful court case may be the first step to changing that.....

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How Has Social Media and Music Platforms Influenced and Evolved Music Creators?

March 28, 2023

Society has always placed a high value on music. As technology starts to become more part of our lives, social media and music platforms have become more and more prominent in the music business....

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The 24th Annual Latin Grammy Awards Put The Spotlight On Songwriters

March 28, 2023

The Latin GRAMMY Awards are changing it up this year for songwriters! On March 21, 2023, The Latin Recording Academy released a press release announcing various additions and changes to the awards...

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Meet NewJeans: The K-Pop Group Taking the World by Storm

March 22, 2023

Even if you haven't heard of NewJeans yet, there's a good chance you'll soon be humming along to their infectious tunes. The Korean pop group is quickly gaining international attention and breaking..

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Max Martin: Why a Pop-Hit Songwriter and Producer Created a Musical

March 31, 2023

Even if you don’t know who Max Martin is, you’ve definitely heard his songs. Hit-pop songs are kind of his thing after all. Martin first stepped into the music world in 1985 as a frontman for....

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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.