After a decade in the music industry, Sabrina Carpenter is proving that persistence pays off. The 25-year-old pop sensation has earned a nomination for Best New Artist at this year’s Grammy Awards, thanks to the viral success of her hit single Espresso from her sixth studio album, Short n’ Sweet.
In an interview with PEOPLE, Sabrina reflected on her steady rise to success:
"I’ve always been true to myself and believed in my work since I was young. I’ve realised that it’s always been about the small baby steps you take over time to get you to this point."
The Taste singer is not only vying for Best New Artist but has also snagged nominations in five other major categories, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Pop Vocal Album, and Best Pop Solo Performance. Meanwhile, her Short n’ Sweet Tour has been thrilling fans worldwide, with plans to visit the UK, Ireland, and the rest of Europe in March and April.
Sabrina shared her excitement about performing overseas:
"I can’t wait to see all of my fans in Europe. There are a couple of cities I haven’t been to in a really long time, so I’m excited to see which crowd is the loudest."
Staying Grounded Amid Success
Despite her whirlwind year, Sabrina admits she hasn’t fully processed her recent achievements:
"I don’t think I’ve fully reflected yet, as I’m also trying to be present in the moment. But I’m just happy to see my songs connect with so many people from all walks of life. That’s why I love to write songs."
The former Disney star recently shared her lifelong dream of being nominated for a Grammy. On Instagram, she posted a video capturing her reaction to receiving six nominations, humorously warning fans about loud screaming.
"This is the first year I’ve watched the live stream where I heard my name! I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t dreamt about this day my whole life, so I am filled with gratitude. Thank you @recordingacademy," she wrote.
Although Sabrina is thrilled about her recognition, she jokingly dismissed the label of "new artist":
"I don’t know how that’s possible," she said with a smile.
Moving Beyond Disney
Sabrina, who rose to fame as Maya Hart on Disney Channel’s Girl Meets World, admits she feels far removed from her Disney days.
"I’m 900 inappropriate jokes away from being a Disney actor, but people still see me that way," she told Variety. "I’m always extremely flattered to be grouped in with the other women and girls I’ve idolised and looked up to who came from that, but I feel very distant from it."
With a Grammy nod and a flourishing music career, Sabrina Carpenter has firmly established herself as a powerhouse artist in her own right, far beyond her early beginnings.
