There's a lot of potential missteps that can happen on a second album - they don't call it the "sophomore slump" for nothing. One artist who seemingly has nothing to worry about is Ariana Grande. Today (Aug. 12) in anticipation of her new record My Everything, the "Bang Bang" singer released a new single, "Best Mistake" featuring her probably boyfriend Big Sean, and it's a strong mark of maturity for the 21-year-old tween favorite.
Starting off with a simply lovely mid-range piano medley, Grande's signature breathy vocals compliment the musical refrain keeping things simple. A drum machine kicks in after a few bars, giving a steady, deep new layer to the single.
There's no mistaking that this is far and away the most mature sounding single of Grande's career. The minimalistic instrumentation also features electronic twinkles and touches of strings, but it's the rich blend of music blended with the relaxed vocals from Grande and Sean that makes this single work.
Though it's almost impossible to discern the lyrics of the single's through Grande's whispers and cheeky vocals, there's something notably calming and old-fashioned about her croon. "You're the best mistake that I've ever made / But we hold on / There's no pot of gold at the end of the rainbows we chase / But we hold on," she sings in the chorus, telling of a star-crossed affair.
Grande's small vocals are perfectly complimented by Sean's, who is known for his laidback approach to rhyming. The chemistry on this single is palpable, with Sean's verse working seamlessly with the rest of Grande's lead vocals.
The collaborative effort is notably adult. Best known for her Lolita looks, teen-friendly lyrics and peppy spirit, Grande is musically venturing into the world of rich, mature pop, and it's working better for her than ever before.
Listen to the new Ariana Grande and Big Sean single "Best Mistake" below:
"Best Mistake" is a new single from Grande's upcoming sophomore album My Everything. Led by the singles "Problem," "Break Free" and "Bang Bang," the record will be released on Aug. 25.
