Popular music is one of the most severely underestimated genres. Music enthusiasts love taking our Internet shovels and digging as far underground as possible, priding ourselves in our ability to find bands that “you’ve probably never heard of.” But the truth is that some of the best music of our age is hidden in plain sight. I find this to be the case with popular artist Ariana Grande.
Grande’s voice has proven an unwaveringly powerful force on her last several albums, and 2018’s “Sweetener” provides no exception. Who would have thought the former Nickelodeon star was so talented? Her vocal ability is clearly developed and practiced. (Look up her impressions of other singers!) The album begins with a mellow and short introduction, “Raindrops.”
Pharrell Williams joins in for “Blazed,” with a classic R&B dance undertone. The song resembles a reggae style. Though it is not one of the album’s most played tracks, it is one of its most unique. Two talented popular artists together are nothing to snub.
Another collaboration on the album is less surprising; Grande seems to have a different, increasingly risqué energy when working with Nicki Minaj. Their combination tracks, in this case “The Light is Coming,” never fail to be catchy, repetitive and fun. The track is a fan favorite.
“God is a Woman” is an anthem in sex positivity, body confidence and femininity. Its video, directed by Dave Meyers, is visually ethereal and even more empowering. Angry men hurl insults at Grande as she sits above, unamused. She says, outright, “when you try to come for me, I keep on flourishing.”
She sits on top of the Earth, with her legs posed outward or up among the clouds. The song is striking both in lyrics and visuals. Its closing moments are especially powerful, complete with overlapping, echoing female voices.
The title track, “Sweetener,” is a slow-paced dance track, ironically. Grande refers to the track’s love interest as “the sweetener… to bring the bitter taste to a halt.” The following song, “Successful” is exciting and fast-paced.
Ariana’s upper range is on display in “Breathin,” a true head-bopper. The lyrics are optimistic and motivational – a perfect tune to pump into your ears at the gym. Not only will the song make you want to move, it will make you smile as you do.
A popular favorite with another artistically appealing music video is “No Tears Left to Cry.” Grande sings from a variety of gravity-defying positions in a cityscape, reminiscent of an Escher painting or that one scene in the movie “Labyrinth.” In an age in which the majority of music videos are excuses for obvious product placement, Grande’s videos are a pleasant surprise.
The R&B, gospel-esque energy reappears in the album’s closer, “Get Well Soon”, simple and sweet, this one a personal favorite. This song is one to remember.
For music-lovers resistant to modern popular music, give Grande’s “Sweetener” a fair chance. For those who unapologetically love popular music, buy this album; listen to its tracks that have not risen to the Top 40. This tracklist is full of underappreciated gems.
