Lucy Dacus Steers Clear of Comments on Her Relationship with Julien Baker
Lucy Dacus on Love, Art, and Protection in a Public Eye
In a candid discussion with The Forty-Five, Lucy Dacus reveals the complexities of navigating love and public scrutiny after her recent hard launch of a relationship with fellow musician Julien Baker. The indie rock singer-songwriter, known for her poignant lyricism and collaboration with Baker in the acclaimed band Boygenius, shares her protective instincts regarding their partnership and the art that stems from it.
“It’s a happy thing—and Julien is very pro me letting people know,” Dacus says, acknowledging the buzz surrounding their romance. However, she admits to taking a step back from the online chatter. “I try not to look,” she adds, referencing the intense scrutiny that often accompanies public relationships. Instead, she prefers glimpses of fan reactions through light-hearted memes sent by friends, a playful reminder of the joy their relationship brings.
Yet, fans can’t help but dissect the personal layers of Dacus’s music, particularly in her new album, Forever Is a Feeling. A common thread in her candid storytelling is the presence of a significant "you," prompting listeners to question the real-life inspiration behind the songs. “The lore of it all—people treating our lives like a Marvel Universe—can be uncomfortable,” she reflects. “But what is lore if not the story? Some parts of my story I keep for myself, but this is the story that defines my life. So what am I gonna do?”
Dacus’s decision to sidestep social media commentary has granted her a sense of security amidst the noise. In a previous interview with The New Yorker, she delved into the vulnerability that comes with public life: “It only takes a handful [of negative comments] to make your life feel like a really easily threatened thing.” This mindfulness is even more crucial in today’s climate, where increased visibility of queer lives can sometimes invoke unwarranted hostility.
Emphasizing the precarious reality for many in the LGBTQ+ community, Dacus poignantly states, “The experience of everyday life feels more dangerous. Even just being a visible gay person, you become an outlet for people’s misguided hatred.” This reflection underscores her commitment to advocacy, especially for marginalized voices. Earlier this year, she pledged $10,000 to GoFundMe campaigns dedicated to trans surgeries, asserting, “The government will never be the source of our validation or protection; we have to do it ourselves.”
As Dacus continues to craft an authentic narrative through her music, she walks the fine line between sharing her life and protecting what is sacred. “I’m very blessed,” she remarks about her supportive circle, notably a friend group largely made up of trans individuals. As the music maven forges ahead, she carves out not just her sound but her sense of self amid the turbulence of both love and societal perception.
In a world that often seeks to oversimplify our stories, Dacus remains committed to authenticity and empowerment, proving that true artistry comes from a place of vulnerability, resilience, and deep connection.
