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 was inspired by a friend of Abrams' who was in a toxic relationship.
Dessner and Abrams have a long-standing collaborative relationship, having worked together for over six years. They have produced three albums together, with Abrams' latest studio effort, 'Daughter From Hell', set to be released on July 17. The producer explains that the studio version of 'Death Wish' predates the live piano version recorded during Abrams' Secret of Us Tour.
The song's lyrics, which include lines like 'And I used to pretend that it didn't feel evil/ Your light of a million suns burns through people', have sparked speculation about their inspiration. Dessner confirms that the song is not about Taylor Swift, who Abrams has only praised and attended her wedding to Travis Kelce. Instead, he suggests that the song is about a friend of Abrams' who was in a bad relationship.
Dessner and Abrams' working relationship is built on trust and friendship. They rarely discuss the real-life subjects of the songs they create, instead relying on their shared experiences and personal connections. Abrams has acknowledged her effort to be more mindful of the impact of her songs on their subjects, and Dessner believes that 'Daughter From Hell' is a more introspective record, reflecting on her own experiences and emotions.
The producer expresses his admiration for the album, highlighting songs like 'What If It's Right?' and 'Humming' as standouts. He also mentions 'Cold Goodbyes' as a favorite, describing it as an improvisational masterpiece. Despite the potential for chart success, Abrams' motivation is driven by artistic integrity, and Dessner believes that 'Daughter From Hell' is a testament to her genuine and compelling artistic vision.
Dessner's involvement in the music industry extends beyond production. He has performed with Noah Kahan and joined Taylor Swift and Gracie Abrams on stage, sharing a deep connection with the artists he works with. The producer's thoughts on performing with these talented artists reveal a sense of awe and vulnerability, as he reflects on the power of music to connect with audiences on a massive scale.
