Gracie Abrams performs during a taping of Austin City Limits on July 30, 2024 (Photo by Scott Newton/Courtesy of Austin City Limits).
Singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams is ready to take her next big step in a career that’s been full of special moments. This Saturday, October 12, she’ll make her highly anticipated debut on Austin City Limits, the longest-running music series in American television history. Fans can catch the broadcast premiere on their local PBS station or stream the episode immediately afterward on the PBS App and at pbs.org/austincitylimits.
Abrams has gained a dedicated following with her heartfelt lyrics and captivating performances, and this ACL debut marks yet another milestone in her rapidly growing career. The setlist for the episode will include tracks from her 2024 album, Good Riddance, along with fan-favorites like “I Miss You, I’m Sorry” and “D21.”
Austin City Limits has hosted countless iconic artists since its debut in 1974. Abrams’ episode adds to a long list of legendary performances, and it’s a can’t-miss for anyone who’s followed her journey or simply loves intimate, powerful live music.
Be sure to check your local PBS listings for the exact air time, or watch online as Abrams brings her emotional, evocative sound to one of the most respected stages in music.
Gracie Abrams performs during a taping of Austin City Limits on July 30, 2024 (Photo by Scott Newton/Courtesy of Austin City Limits).
Los Angeles singer-songwriter Gracie Abrams, celebrated for her heartfelt lyrics and captivating voice, made her highly anticipated debut at Austin City Limits on Tuesday night, offering a performance that left a lasting impression. As part of the iconic PBS show’s huge 50th anniversary season, Abrams’ taping will broadcast in October and will also be available for streaming, allowing fans everywhere to experience the magic. Her appearance at the Moody Theater on Tuesday night marked her first time gracing the legendary ACL stage, solidifying her place in the pantheon of music stars.
While the “Close To You” singer has graced the stages of Austin before, performing at the Austin City Limits Music Festival in Zilker Park in 2021, her appearance at the Moody Theater marked her first performance for the legendary Austin City Limits show. This historic venue and program, with its picturesque backdrop of the Austin skyline, provided an intimate setting that perfectly suited Abrams’ soulful and heartfelt music. Within the walls of this hallowed venue, time seemed to stand still as Abrams delivered a performance that will be etched in the memories of those lucky enough to attend the private taping.
Abrams, dressed in an oversized unbuttoned blue dress shirt over a white bralette and light blue baggy straight-leg jeans, delivered a setlist that blended new tracks from her latest album, “The Secret of Us,” with beloved classics already cemented in the discography of her growing career. Released just weeks ago, many of the new album’s tracks were performed live for the first time, giving fans a special glimpse of her evolving artistry.
Opening with “Risk,” a standout single from her new album, Abrams immediately captivated the audience. The energy built as she seamlessly transitioned into “Blowing Smoke” and “I Love You, I’m Sorry,” before diving into older favorites like “Where Do We Go Now” and “21.”
Gracie Abrams performs during a taping of Austin City Limits on July 30, 2024 (Photo by Scott Newton/Courtesy of Austin City Limits).
Throughout the night, Gracie’s gratitude was palpable. “I’m going to articulate this the best way I can, I love you and thank you so much for being here,” she told the audience midway through the show. Her heartfelt connection with the crowd was evident as she blew kisses to the crowd and made heart hands to young fans with a guitar pick in her mouth a smile from ear to ear. Her sincerity and emotional transparency added depth to her performance, making the night unforgettable for her fans.
After concluding her set with “Free Now,” the second to last track from her new LP, Abrams returned for a unique encore, re-recording the first three songs due to producers’ requests for extra footage for the forthcoming broadcast. This unexpected treat was met with overwhelming excitement from the audience, who sang along with even more energy than the first time.
Gracie Abrams’ performance at Austin City Limits was a testament to her undeniable talent and the genuine connection she shares with her fans. Her rise to fame is a testament to her artistry and dedication. As she prepares for her forthcoming sold-out headlining tour, her ACL performance now stands as a significant milestone in her rapidly growing career.
Gracie Abrams’ Austin City Limits debut will undoubtedly be a highlight of the show’s 50th season, celebrating half a century of performances from the biggest names in music. Her performance captured the essence of Austin’s rich musical heritage while showcasing her unique voice and talent, ensuring that fans both old and new will be eagerly awaiting its broadcast this October.
Season 50 of “Austin City Limits” is set to premiere on PBS on September 28th with a performance from Texas’ own, Kacey Musgraves.
Gracie Abrams performs at the Austin City Limits Music Festival on October 2, 2021 (Photo by Dan Garcia/The Early Registration).
Next week, the iconic Moody Theater in Austin, Texas, will be graced by the enchanting presence of Gracie Abrams as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations of Austin City Limits. This milestone year marks half a century since Willie Nelson first took the ACL stage, and what better way to commemorate this legacy than with a performance from one of today’s most promising singer-songwriters.
Gracie Abrams, a nominee for the 2024 Grammy Best New Artist, is no stranger to captivating audiences with her heartfelt lyrics and mesmerizing voice. Her Austin City Limits debut promises to be an unforgettable evening, showcasing new music from her highly anticipated sophomore album, The Secret of Us, which dropped on June 21st via Interscope Records. Fans have already fallen in love with the album’s lead single, “Risk,” co-written with Audrey Hobert and produced with Aaron Dessner of The National. This new track, along with the rest of the album, has been met with widespread acclaim from Rolling Stone, Billboard, Nylon, and more.
Abrams’ rise in the music world has been nothing short of meteoric. Since her debut in 2019, she has garnered a devoted following, thanks to her emotionally intimate songwriting and compelling performances. Her debut project, minor (2020), and subsequent releases like This Is What It Feels Like (2021) and Good Riddance (2023) have established her as a significant voice in contemporary music. With influences like Joni Mitchell and admiration from artists such as Taylor Swift, Lorde, and Olivia Rodrigo, Abrams continues to carve out her unique space in the industry.
Her upcoming performance at Austin City Limits is particularly special as it precedes her sold out “The Secret of Us Tour,” set to begin this September in Portland, Oregon. Abrams also recently achieved a milestone by selling out the O2 Arena in London for the forthcoming international leg of her tour, a testament to her growing international appeal.
For those lucky enough to attend the taping, the evening promises an intimate yet electrifying experience. Doors open at 7 PM, with the theater located at 310 W. 2nd Street, Willie Nelson Blvd. Fans are advised to arrive early, as tapings begin promptly at 8 PM CT. The Will Call and Front Porch Bar will open at 6 PM, ensuring attendees have ample time to soak in the atmosphere before the show begins.
For those not lucky enough to attend in person, the broadcast of her taping is set to air (and available for streaming) during the Austin City Limits upcoming 50th season on PBS. which premieres on September 28th with a performance by Texas’ own, Kacey Musgraves.
As Austin City Limits celebrates its 50th anniversary, Gracie Abrams’ performance is set to be a highlight of this historic year. With her new album, The Secret of Us, and a fall tour on the horizon, Abrams is poised to continue her ascent in the music world. Don’t miss this chance to witness her debut at one of the most iconic venues in live music history.
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