Late on November 3rd, Ariana Grande surprised her fans by releasing new music; following her 4th studio album released just 2 months ago.
Followers’ curiosity was heightened by the cryptic tweets that were sent by Grande throughout the day.
Shortly before midnight, Grande released “thank u, next;” and announced that it would be the first single off her forthcoming fifth album by the same name.
thank u……. next ? https://t.co/UHmQO5l8LQ pic.twitter.com/UT9FAmwdPH
— Ariana Grande (@ArianaGrande) November 4, 2018
The song begins with Grande addressing her past relationships with Big Sean, Ricky Alvarez , the late Mac Miller, and comedian, Pete Davidson. She thanks them for the lessons the relationships have held for her by listing them in a melodic manner. “One taught me love/One taught me patience/And one taught me pain/Now, I’m so amazing,” Grande sings.
The second verse takes on a more sarcastic tone as Grande teases that she now has met someone else; referencing the relationship she has with herself – a topic previously addressed in her song breathin. “But this one gon’ last” she assures listeners.
“thank u, next” touches on many of the relationships in Grande’s life including her Mother and Father’s tumultuous relationship; which she rarely addresses. “One day I’ll walk down the aisle/Holding hands with my mama/I’ll be thanking my dad-‘Cause she grew from the drama.”
The overall tone of “thank u, next” conveys a sense of strength and emerging. It acknowledges what she has gone through and how all of it has made her stronger just as her Mother’s experiences, have done the same.
“thank u, next” leaves you wanting more as fans wait for what is to follow.
Give it a listen and let us know what you think.