Ariana Grande is back, and she’s back in style with the release of her highly anticipated seventh studio album, “Eternal Sunshine.” This marks her first full-length album in four years, and the pop sensation is making waves once again with 13 soulful tracks, including the previously released “yes, and.” Ariana’s return to the music scene is undoubtedly a cause for celebration for her massive fanbase, and “Eternal Sunshine” is poised to be a soundtrack for the ages.
The album’s creation was somewhat serendipitous, born during the SAG-AFTRA strike, when Ariana, driven by pure curiosity, stepped into the studio to see what would unfold. The result? A musical masterpiece that stands at just 35 minutes and 32 seconds, a short but impactful journey that showcases Ariana’s artistic evolution.
In a recent interview on the Zach Sang Show, Ariana explained the spontaneous nature of the album’s creation, saying, “I did not plan to [release music], I didn’t have the goal to make an album. I actually was really opposed to coming out with music until after Wicked, either both parts or just the one part.” However, the strike prompted her to venture into the studio, and the creativity flowed effortlessly. She added, “I wasn’t sure how it would feel, but as soon as the strike began, I came to New York, and just for fun, just to see how it would feel… and it all just kind of started pouring out.”
Despite its brevity, Ariana has expressed her apologies for the album’s shorter duration, acknowledging that it may leave fans wanting more. But as she stated in the interview, the creative process was organic, and the result is an album that feels authentic and true to the moment.
“Eternal Sunshine” is described by Ariana as “incredibly human,” exploring a concept that draws inspiration from the movie “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.” The film, known for its exploration of love, memories, and the complexities of relationships, serves as a thematic backdrop for Ariana’s latest musical endeavor.
The album’s emotional depth is further emphasized in the music video for the single “we can’t be friends (wait for your love),” which showcases Ariana’s acting prowess alongside Evan Peters. The visual narrative draws inspiration from Jim Carrey’s movie “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” capturing the struggles of moving on after heartbreak and the pain of letting go. It’s a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the journey towards healing.
Ariana Grande’s connection to the movie is deeply personal, as she revealed, “I think the movie is so beloved because so many people can relate to knowing that something isn’t right, but loving so much, and wanting to stay, and wanting to figure it out, and that cycle that can happen in the film.” Her admiration for Jim Carrey and the film’s themes is evident, and it’s this connection that infused the album with a sense of authenticity and vulnerability.
Looking ahead, Ariana expressed her desire to tour again, sharing, “I miss doing shows. I really do. If there’s a chance to in between the Wickeds or right after the Wickeds, I will, of course, do my best to do it.” This revelation is sure to excite fans who have missed experiencing her electrifying performances.
As Ariana Grande takes center stage once again with “Eternal Sunshine,” her musical journey continues to captivate and resonate with fans around the world. The album not only marks a significant chapter in her career but also showcases her artistic evolution, cementing her status as one of the most influential voices in the music industry. “Eternal Sunshine” is not just an album; it’s a testament to Ariana’s unwavering commitment to authenticity, creativity, and the enduring power of her musical legacy.
