Aaron Dessner, the renowned producer and member of The National, has addressed the misconceptions surrounding the song 'Death Wish' by Gracie Abrams. In a recent interview with Billboard, Dessner clarifies that the song is not about Taylor Swift, as some listeners have speculated. Instead, it's about a friend of Abrams' who was in a toxic relationship.
Dessner explains that the studio version of 'Death Wish' predates the live piano version recorded by Abrams during her Secret of Us Tour. He emphasizes that the song was written during a time when Abrams was dealing with a friend's ex-partner in a bad relationship. This context, according to Dessner, is crucial to understanding the song's meaning.
The producer also discusses his collaboration with Abrams, noting that they have become close friends over the years. He mentions that Abrams is aware of his personal life and that he is familiar with hers, including her close relationship with his children. Dessner believes that the mystery and unspoken nature of these personal connections add depth to the songwriting process.
When asked about Abrams' recent acknowledgment of being less 'careless' in her songwriting, Dessner interprets it as a reflection on songs written about past relationships. He suggests that Abrams is now more mindful of the potential impact of her lyrics on others, even if they are about herself.
Dessner expresses his admiration for several songs on Abrams' album 'Daughter From Hell,' including 'What If It's Right?' and 'Humming,' which he finds magical. He also highlights the improvisational nature of 'Cold Goodbyes,' a song he describes as almost spontaneous in the studio.
Interestingly, Dessner notes that 'Daughter From Hell' is even less pop-oriented than Abrams' previous work, 'The Secret of Us.' He attributes this to Abrams' genuine artistic motivation, which is not driven by chart success but by what feels most compelling creatively. Dessner believes that this album is a true reflection of Abrams' heart and soul.
The interview also touches on Dessner's performances with Noah Kahan and Taylor Swift. He shares his thoughts on the thrill of performing songs in front of large audiences and the sense of connection it creates. Dessner's experiences on stage with these artists highlight the power of music to transcend personal boundaries and create shared moments of emotion.
