Thank U, Next- Ariana Grande

https://open.spotify.com/album/2fYhqwDWXjbpjaIJPEfKFw?si=vOLz1EfYSWKI1o4tJ3P9tQ 

Ariana Grande honestly never disappoints.  Throughout her music career, she has grown into a more mature artist. She kicked off 2019 with the release of her album Thank u, next shortly after her previous album Sweetener. Her music tells her story of overcoming the loss of her ex, the end of her engagement, and her overall struggles with her anxiety. The album is emotional but also enjoyable. Ariana takes a change of pace as the album introduces more of an R&B feel to it which perfectly matches the emotional journey that she takes us through.

I could listen to this album on repeat for a week and not get tired of it. If you need some music to play on a rainy day, when you’re feeling down, or for some chill music, then this is definitely perfect for you. Although the theme of this album is sad, there are a few songs that elevate it to be more than just her problems. A few happier songs include; “7 rings”, “NASA”, “make up”, and “break up with your girlfriend, I’m bored”. Although they’re still mostly about serious topics, they have a more upbeat energy. “7 rings” stands out the most as she talks more about her success rather than her pain. It’s an uplifting song that shows us that although she’s been through a lot, she still has that fire in her. Most of the album, however, is much softer and slowed down. My favorite slow songs would have to be “ghostin”, “fake smiles”, and “needy”. “Ghostin” is a heartbreaking song about Grande’s struggle to move forward with Pete Davidson while trying to deal with the death of Mac Miller. You can actually hear the pain in every word and can truly understand what she must be going through. “Fake Smiles” is another deep and slow song but she speaks out about not faking her happiness in front of the paparazzi. It has an unusual beginning where you’re not exactly sure where she’s going with it, but it takes a great turn and really grows on you. “Needy” is actually more of a love ballad which stands out in this album as well. It’s a beautiful song that talks about the real fears we all have of being a bit overbearing in our relationships. The song itself "Thank u, next" was the most iconic song of all. The upbeat and inspiring song amazed me the moment I heard it. Although it's not the best she's produced, the meaning behind it made up for it. You can tell that the song was clearly a little bit rushed because the lyrics weren't the most creative I've ever heard from her, but nevertheless, it blew up because the message was so strong. What really makes this song along with the others so great is how genuine and relatable she is.

Thank u, next is definitely not a typical Ariana Grande album that we’re used to. Before the album was released, the artist dealt with some personal tragedies that took a major toll on her life and her music. The first was the bombing at her concert in Manchester, UK, then the death of her ex-boyfriend Mac Miller and the end of her engagement with Pete Davidson. Grande fans were concerned for the stars mental well-being but were shocked when Thank u, next came out. She took the opportunity to deal with her problems and be honest with her audience about it. She didn’t hide the pain or act like everything was alright. She put her tragedies into music and used it as a tool to heal. Her music is deep and raw instead of the usual upbeat music were used to. Although this album has plenty of catchy songs, it has tones of R&B that soften it up.

Thank u, next changed Grande’s style for the better. It showed a raw side of her that enhanced her music to be relatable. Her openness created a newfound respect from her listeners and really made us not only hear her but feel her words. Her music was honest, authentic, and a complete change of style in the best way possible.

Thank u, next: released Feb 8, 2019