Warwick grad releases first-ever single based off social isolation felt during pandemic

Grace Yurchuk, a Warwick grad and first-year NYU student, released her first-ever single, entitled “Need Me,” on April 16.

The track was inspired by her feelings of social isolation, online classes and her first year as a college student during a global pandemic.

“In the midst of the restrictions, I had time to myself to work on what I was experiencing and what my friends were experiencing,” said Yurchuk. “I was working through the feeling of social isolation and that emotion of wanting to feel needed.”

’I couldn’t put it down’

Yurchuk said that the isolation inspired her to delve into a creative outlet, song-writing, something she had experience in, but never thought to release to the public.

She started writing “Need Me” in mid-October, and knew that it was different then her previously written songs. “I couldn’t put it down, I was so excited that I started something that I was proud of.”

Written, recorded, and produced in her dorm room, Yurchuk used her home-made music studio to record “Need Me” and released it in April on all streaming platforms.

“After using GarageBand since 6th grade to record my songs, about two years ago my dad and I realized we should get serious and research music equipment. So we made a home studio that I was able to take to my dorm,” said Yurchuk.

The Yurchuk sisters

Yurchuk says her family is more than supportive of her musical endeavors, and she even sings and writes songs with her two younger sisters. “I hope to write with them more when I get home for the summer after finals.”

When asked what helped her get into music, Yurchuk admitted it was her support system that helped her keep at it.

“I’ve always been interested in music, but I’ve had a lot of people who’ve supported me non-stop. So I don’t know if there was an ‘aha’ moment, but throughout everything I’ve had people that pushed me through it.”

People like her parents, her family, and music teachers are just some examples that inspired Yurchuk to follow her passions.

‘Good Together’ to be released May 21

That passion led her to NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development, where she is enrolled in the Vocal Performance program, and recently received The Josh Goldfaden Award for writing from NYU College of Arts & Sciences.

After riding the high on her first-ever single, Yurchuk plans to release her next single called “Good Together,” this Friday which will be available on all music platforms.

“As long as I’m singing and making music, I know I’m going to be happy.”