Chrissy Metz Opens Up on Debut Album: How She Defied 'This Is Us' Advice from Mandy Moore
Chrissy Metz's debut album, 'Prayed For This Day,' was kept under wraps from her former 'This Is Us' co-star, Mandy Moore, as the actress felt too protective and insular about sharing her music
Chrissy Metz organized a pre-release listening session for her new album Prayed For This Day, which she referred to as a "test market." Surprisingly, Mandy Moore, her former co-star from This Is Us, was not among the attendees.
"I tend to be quite closed off. I believe everyone is very invested in their own art," shared Metz, 43, in an exclusive interview with We on Wednesday, October 11, regarding her reluctance to share an early version of her songs with her friends. "There's a part of me that hesitates. I trust my family to provide honest feedback, whereas with friends, I worry they might feel obligated to say certain things. Not that they necessarily would, but I'm just very protective of my work."
She went on to explain, "I know my family would give me truthful feedback that I can handle. However, I'm uncertain if my friends would feel the same. It's almost like the thought of hearing their honest opinions is too painful for me!"
Metz released her first full-length album, a children's album, in February. Moore, her TV mom on This Is Us, initially gained fame as a pop star in the early 2000s. Despite Moore's success as a singer, Metz hesitated to ask her for music advice.
"I find music to be particularly vulnerable because it's me. I'm not Chrissy playing another character. It's me sharing my heart and soul, and I'll be literally expressing that through a microphone," Metz explained. "There's no way to hide. You're completely exposed. Besides stand-up comedy, I think it's the most vulnerable thing."
Metz refrained from sharing an early version of Prayed For This Day with Moore and her other friends. However, she expressed her admiration for the strong bond she shares with her This Is Us castmates. "There was a special alignment of everyone's lives, ages, and careers. From Sterling K. Brown to every single person in the cast, including creator Dan Fogelman and the crew, it felt like a stroke of luck. It was an organic occurrence that couldn't have been planned. It was the perfect combination of the right individuals, the right location, the right moment in time. It was what the world needed and what we, as the show's creators, needed."
Metz expressed that despite the show ending, they remain close friends and stay in touch frequently, forming a strong bond. This connection was possible because of the honesty and authenticity of the show. Even though their ex-boyfriend Bradley Collins recently announced their split, Metz collaborated with him on their book When I Talk to God, I Talk About You and LP Prayed For This Day. Within a week, Metz, Collins, Phil Barton, Liz Rose, and Jen Wayne came together to write 10 songs before Metz proceeded to the recording studio.
"We faced time constraints... and everything simply flowed effortlessly," stated Metz. "We incorporated many of the main themes from our book, such as embracing bravery, unconditional love, and the value of friendship. The basis was already established, but I never anticipated writing and recording 10 songs in just 30 days."
Metz, who recently showcased a selection of these soothing melodies at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry, poured her entire being into composing the original tracks.
The song "No Matter What" holds a special place in my heart. It continues to be one of my favorites because, as adults, all we truly desire is to be loved unconditionally. We long for acceptance, regardless of the choices we make, whether they are good or bad, and irrespective of the path we choose or the person we aspire to be. This longing for unconditional love extends to our caregivers, parents, and family. Whenever I listen to this song, it stirs up emotions within me because it speaks to our fundamental desire to be loved, no matter what.
Currently, Prayed For This Day is eligible for nomination as Best Children's Album at the upcoming Grammy Awards. We would be thrilled to receive a Grammy nomination, especially in this special category dedicated to children's music. Although the children's album category may be smaller compared to others, its significance cannot be undermined. Music plays a crucial role in shaping the future, and we aim to make a lasting impact through our album. Our intention is to instill confidence and empower young listeners. So, we remain hopeful and keep our fingers, toes, and eyes crossed for this opportunity!
The actress is set to showcase her songs in a live performance at the Grammy Museum on November 18. Afterward, she will join Jim Brickman on his A Joyful Christmas tour.
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Chrissy Metz
