The season of celebration was recently overshadowed by heartbreaking violence, as two mass shootings shook communities across the world. In mid-December, a shooting at Brown University claimed the lives of two students and left several others injured. Just one day later, another attack during a Hanukkah gathering at Australia’s Bondi Beach resulted in the deaths of 15 people and injured dozens more.
In the wake of these devastating events, Gracie Abrams, Aaron Dessner, and Bon Iver have come together to release a deeply emotional new song in support of Everytown, a nonprofit organization dedicated to ending gun violence. The collaboration stands as a powerful artistic response to tragedy, using music to amplify awareness and encourage action.
A Song Born From Collective Pain
The track, titled “Sold Out,” captures the raw fear, exhaustion, and frustration felt by many in a world repeatedly scarred by violence. Abrams’ lyrics cut straight to the heart of the issue, reflecting on a system that leaves people terrified and searching for hope.
Released on Bandcamp for $5, the song directs its proceeds toward supporting Everytown’s ongoing efforts to reduce gun violence and protect communities. Through haunting melodies and honest words, the artists turn grief into a call for awareness.
“The World Is Hurting”
In a joint statement, the three musicians explained that “Sold Out” was originally written after a school shooting last year. Recent events, however, brought the song back into focus.
“It’s a painful track to share during the holidays,” they said, “but the world is hurting, and we shouldn’t look away.” The artists emphasized their pride in supporting Everytown and encouraged listeners to learn more about the organization’s mission and impact. Their message was clear: music can be both a mirror of sorrow and a catalyst for change.
This collaboration has since been widely described as Gracie Abrams, Aaron Dessner, and Bon Iver Unite on a Powerful New Song Addressing Gun Violence, Declaring, “The World Is Hurting.”
Artists Supporting One Another
Aaron Dessner also publicly praised Abrams for her role in bringing the song to life. Sharing her post on social media, he thanked her for finding a way to express shared grief while transforming it into meaningful action. His message highlighted the strength of collaboration—not just musically, but emotionally and socially.
Abrams’ Willingness to Speak Out
Abrams, a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, has consistently used her platform to address issues she deeply cares about. Following news of the Brown University and Bondi Beach shootings, as well as the tragic deaths of filmmaker Rob Reiner and his wife Michele Reiner, she voiced strong criticism of Donald Trump’s response to the tragedies.
Her statement condemned what she described as a lack of empathy in the face of unimaginable loss, reinforcing her belief that public figures should respond to grief with compassion rather than division.
