Lucy Dacus: Breaking Free from Frames in "Ankles" Music Video
In the captivating music video for "Ankles," the lead single from her highly anticipated fourth studio album, Lucy Dacus embodies a Victorian-era damsel who escapes the confines of a painting. As she gallivants through the romantic streets of Paris, she is pursued by a stern museum guard, intent on corralling her back into her framed existence. This visuals-rich narrative is more than just a playful fantasy; it encapsulates a deeper exploration of desire versus restriction, echoing the themes of the song itself.
The Art of Framing in Lucy Dacus's Work
For Dacus, the concept of frames has become a powerful metaphor in her artistry. The imagery resonates throughout her career, from her earlier work like the video for her song "Historian," where she also employed framing techniques, to the album cover for her recent LP, "Forever Is a Feeling." Dacus reflects, “Framing is such a huge part of art. What are you putting in the confines of the frame? What are you filling in time? What are you putting in front of people?” This introspective inquiry adds layers of meaning to her songs, inviting listeners to contemplate the boundaries of their own experiences.
Crafting “Forever Is a Feeling”
The creation of "Forever Is a Feeling" emerged from Dacus's realization that she was channeling her thoughts on love. Following her triumphant collaboration with boygenius, the indie-rock supergroup she formed with Phoebe Bridgers and Julien Baker, Dacus is now embarking on a solo journey that boldly articulates her unique voice.
Dacus recently revealed that one of her new love songs is directly inspired by Baker, showcasing the kind of personal storytelling that her fans have come to adore.
In a recent phone interview before she jetted off to Paris for a performance, Dacus deepened our understanding of her creative world by spotlighting several cultural essentials that inspire her—and as a result, our engagement with her music becomes even richer.
Lucy’s Cultural Essentials
Sunscreen: A Daily Necessity
“I wear sunscreen every day,” Dacus shares. “I started doing this maybe a year ago after I moved to Los Angeles. Whenever people visit my house, I have sunscreen available for everyone.” This simple yet essential practice reflects her proactive approach to self-care, serving as a reminder that creativity flourishes when nurtured.
Robert Altman Movies: A Colorful Influence
Dacus delves into cinema, citing directors like Robert Altman. “Last year, my girlfriend and I chose a few directors to watch multiple films from. Altman’s Nashville was eye-opening. It blends dark humor with brightness, creating a textural dialogue.” Her affinity for nuanced storytelling is evident, illustrating how film similarly frames human emotions and experiences.
iPhone Voice Memos: Capturing Inspiration Effortlessly
“The secret to my songwriting? Voice memos and notes apps have been lifesavers. Whether I’m on the go or stuck in transit, capturing melodies and lyrics now has never been easier.” The final moments of her latest album are marked by a raw voice memo of her playing “Lost Time” for the very first time, testament to her authentic creative process.
A Glimpse into Dacus's Viewpoints
‘Survivor’: A Lesson in Evolution
With a footnote to cultural commentary, Dacus recounts her passion for "Survivor." “I’ve seen 43 seasons. Watching the evolution of this show feels like a history lesson. It’s more than entertainment; it’s a reflection on how society shifts.” This sentiment echoes her approach to music—consistent self-exploration and adaptation.
Healing Back Pain: A Personal Journey
On a more personal note, Dacus discusses her struggles with herniated discs that have affected her touring schedule. After enduring intense pain, a book recommendation provided her with relief, illustrating both her vulnerability and resilience: “I swear to you, I haven’t had a flare-up since reading.”
LePen Pens: Coloring Her Emotions
In her journal, Dacus employs LePen colored pens, which she uses to reflect her emotional states. “If I’m angry, I’ll opt for a red pen. It’s a simple yet vivid way to express what I’m feeling,” capturing her thoughts with an artistic touch.
SZA: A Kindred Spirit in Songwriting
“God bless SZA—she’s an incredible songwriter,” Dacus expresses, equating her deep connection to SZA’s music with the intimate bond many feel towards Elliott Smith. SZA's lyrical authenticity resonates deeply with Dacus and her fans alike.
‘Paris, Texas’: A Cinematic Masterpiece
Dacus cites Paris, Texas as a film that resonates with her on multiple levels. “There’s an extraordinary sensitivity to it. Its neon-soaked visuals and complex characters continue to inspire me,” affirming her belief that great art transcends time.
James Baldwin: A Literary Giant
In the domain of literature, she passionately advocates for James Baldwin: “His book, The Fire Next Time, should be a staple in schools. I went through a phase of reading his works chronologically but needed to pause—his narratives have a profound emotional impact.”
Capturing Life: My Film Camera
Lastly, Dacus shares her fondness for photography. “Julien got me a Contax T2 for my birthday, and I love capturing moments from unique perspectives. I took it to a Joni Mitchell performance, and managed a shot of her and Elton John singing backstage—a memory I cherish.”
Conclusion: Lucy Dacus's Art Is Limitless
From the playful escapism of her "Ankles" music video to the emotional depth found in her new album, Lucy Dacus consistently breaks free from conventional frameworks. By embracing both her creative process and personal experiences, Dacus invites listeners to step into her world—a place where imagination and reality collide.
For more on the transformative power of music and film, visit Rolling Stone or explore the genre-defying artistry of Lucy Dacus.
