Grace VanderWaal, the multi-talented singer-songwriter, has captivated audiences for nearly ten years. At just 21 years old, she first gained fame by winning NBC’s America’s Got Talent at the tender age of 12. However, VanderWaal is quick to acknowledge that her latest musical endeavor contrasts sharply with her early work. “I feel what I was making before was just stupid and trash,”she candidly reflects during a recent Zoom interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
Back in her AGT days, VanderWaal was known for her distinctive voice paired with the ukulele, drawing inspiration from the folk-pop-rock genre celebrated by artists twice her age. Her debut album, Just the Beginning, was released when she was only 13. Now, following a notable role in Francis Ford Coppola’s upcoming film, Megalopolis, VanderWaal is embarking on a new musical journey with her sophomore album, Childstar, which debuted last week under Pulse Records.
This nine-track album delves deeply into her experiences as a young woman navigating the music industry. It’s complemented by a stunning performance video titled Childstar: Final Act, which she co-directed and co-choreographed, stating, “I felt like I had no choice but to pull some weight and be a part of it.”
Exploring Visual Storytelling in Music
During her conversation with THR, VanderWaal discusses the significance of integrating visual storytelling into her music with Childstar: Final Act. “It’s a really complex topic, and I think that there’s always more room to express those feelings and conversations,”she explains, emphasizing the importance of this creative direction.
The Intensive Process Behind the Video
Opening up about her hands-on involvement in the project, she recalls, “I was just making slideshows. Literally, I just walked into Pulse and had Google Slides with snippets of ideas.”The choreography process was particularly grueling, with only three days allocated for preparation right before filming, adding to the stress of executing her vision.
A Personal Evolution in Music
The journey toward her new album marks a significant shift for VanderWaal. “Everything just felt natural. I’m not scared of my own feelings or my story anymore,”she confides. This newfound comfort allowed her to explore aspects of her life previously overlooked, reflecting her maturation in the industry.
Embracing the Brave and the Weird
When asked about the challenges of sharing her personal experiences through music, VanderWaal articulates, “You get older, you toughen your skin, you get more experienced. All those things instill the confidence needed for a project like this.”However, she recognizes the daunting nature of this vulnerability, stating, “It’s a brave project, it’s weird, and it’s not going to resonate with everyone.”
Connecting with Fans on a New Level
Touching on the reception of her new musical direction, VanderWaal believes her fans understand and embrace her evolution. “If you like me, you probably also appreciate my artistic growth,”she expresses optimistically. Acknowledging that some listeners may drift away, she maintains that such transitions are a natural part of artistic development.
Reclaiming Agency as a Young Woman
Thematic exploration in Childstar focuses significantly on empowerment and reclaiming agency. VanderWaal poignantly notes the expectations placed on young women, stating, “Young women are held to so much pressure. From a very early age, you’re told your life is for everyone else.”This recognition fuels her commitment to living authentically, allowing her to assert her identity beyond societal constraints.
Key Takeaways from the New Album
Ultimately, VanderWaal hopes listeners take away a sense of her capability and creativity through her latest work. “I want people to be excited about what I can create,”she shares confidently. Her passion for music and artistry shines through, with a promise that every glimpse into her work comes from her own experiences and creativity.
A Final Note on This New Stage
In conclusion, VanderWaal aspires for her audience to understand her authenticity. “Everything you hear or see comes from me in some way,”she reiterates, emphasizing her dedication to genuine artistry in this new chapter of her career.