Ariana Grande has revealed that her album Thank U, Next was more than just a hit record—it was her salvation.
The 31-year-old pop star has endured a difficult journey, battling post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the aftermath of the 2017 Manchester Arena terror attack, which claimed 22 lives and left over 1,000 people injured. Now, she is opening up about how recording the album became a source of healing.
Speaking on The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, Ariana reflected:
“I was in intensive therapy, trying to manage PTSD, but also various forms of grief, depression, and anxiety.
I took this very seriously, but music was an integral part of my healing—it helped save me. Those times were dark, but music brought light into my life.”
The Label’s Hesitation & Ariana’s Determination
Ariana released Thank U, Next in 2019, just months after her previous album, Sweetener. However, her record label executives were initially concerned about the quick turnaround.
“The label understood my need, but they were hesitant to stop promoting Sweetener to launch something new,” she shared.
Determined to follow her instincts, she made it clear that this album was necessary for her well-being:
“I told them, ‘I’m not interested in the traditional process. Right now, I don’t want to follow the rules—because that’s exactly what my soul needs.’
It was a truly regenerative and liberating process.”
Defending Her Vocal Evolution
Ariana also addressed recent criticism about her voice sounding higher-pitched than before, explaining that this change is intentional—a technique to protect her vocal health.
During an appearance on the SmartLess podcast, she clarified:
“What I do seems confusing to many, but if you use your voice professionally, you understand why it happens.
If I have a day filled with interviews or performances, I adjust my vocal pitch to a slightly higher frequency to protect it.
It’s simply a healthy way to maintain my voice. In fact, it’s like shifting it to a more comfortable range.”
Ariana’s Journey Forward
From overcoming trauma to embracing her own artistic and vocal evolution, Ariana Grande continues to carve her path—on her own terms. Thank U, Next wasn’t just a hit album; it was a lifeline, proving that music remains her most powerful form of healing.
