Grace VanderWaal announces sophomore album ‘CHILDSTAR,” releases new single “Proud”

Written by

Sabrina Amoriello

Internationally acclaimed singer-songwriter and actress Grace VanderWaal is set to make her long-awaited return to music with the announcement of her sophomore album, CHILDSTAR, set for release on April 4 via PULSE Records. Marking her most introspective and bold work to date, CHILDSTAR find VanderWaal exploring themes of resilience, identity, and the trials of growing up in the public eye. Drawing inspiration from artists like Fiona Apple and Björk, the album promises a raw and immersive listening experience.

The album’s tracklist includes:

  1. Fade
  2. Proud
  3. Brand New
  4. Homesick
  5. What’s Left Of Me
  6. Call It What You Want
  7. Babydoll (feat. Aliyah’s Interlude)
  8. Beg For It
  9. Behavioral Problems

With CHILDSTAR, VanderWaal peels back the layers of childhood stardom, reflecting on the complexities of self-discovery. Fans can pre-order and save CHILDSTAR now in anticipation of its April 4 release.

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Accompanying the album announcement, VanderWaal has released a brand-new single, “Proud.” The haunting yet hopeful track opens with an old music box melody, setting a dreamlike atmosphere as Grace’s poignant lyrics unfold: “Promise I’ll be small. I won’t take up space at all… Ground yourself. Remember your place. You don’t have a voice yet. You don’t get to say.”

“Proud” builds on the emotional depth of CHILDSTAR, addressing the struggles of seeking validation and the weight of growing up too soon. Grace describes the song as an exploration of the “golden child” archetype, revealing the inner turmoil of a child who suppresses their need to be seen as mature and worthy of love.

Following the album release, VanderWaal will embark on her first tour since 2019, bringing CHILDSTAR to fans across North America. The six-date tour will visit key cities, starting in Chicago and wrapping up in San Francisco:

  • May 4 – Lincoln Hall – Chicago, IL
  • May 7 – The Great Hall – Toronto, ON
  • May 9 – Atlantis – Washington, DC
  • May 10 – Racket – New York, NY
  • May 18 – The Roxy – Los Angeles, CA
  • May 21 – Brick & Mortar – San Francisco, CA

Fans can register for the artist presale beginning Monday, March 24 at 10 a.m. local time, with general ticket sales opening on Friday, March 28 at 10 a.m. local time.

2024 has already been a landmark year for VanderWaal. She captivated audiences with a powerful performance at the Kennedy Center Honors and made waves in the film industry with a standout role in Francis Ford Coppola’s epic Megalopolis, starring alongside Adam Driver and Laurence Fishburne. The film’s debut at the Cannes Film Festival earned a seven-minute standing ovation, further solidifying her growing artistic legacy.

With CHILDSTAR, Grace VanderWaal continues to push the boundaries of her artistry, delivering a project that is as deeply personal as it is universally resonant. As she reclaims her voice and steps into a new era of musical expression, fans can expect more exciting news in the coming months.

CHILDSTAR will be available everywhere on April 4. Listen to “Proud” now and pre-order the album today.

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