Ariana Grande, the pop superstar known for her signature high notes and ponytail, has addressed recent online chatter about fluctuations in her speaking voice. In a recent interview on the “Shut Up Evan” podcast, Grande pushed back against comments with wit and a touch of exasperation.
Fans first noticed a change in Grande’s speaking voice last month. Social media swirled with speculation, with some expressing concern and others resorting to lighthearted jokes. Grande, ever the social media maven, took to TikTok to address the situation directly. She attributed the change to a combination of “habits” and vocal health practices.
However, in the “Shut Up Evan” interview, Grande delved deeper, highlighting a double standard she perceives. “It’s a normal thing people do, especially if you have a large range,” she stated. She emphasized the impact of playing Glinda in the upcoming film adaptation of “Wicked.” “I did just spend a long time playing a character every single day,” she explained, referring to the vocal training required for the role. “Muscle memory is a real thing,” she added, implying the character’s vocal stylings had a temporary influence on her own speaking voice.
Grande further clarified that she has always used different vocal placements depending on singing demands. “I intentionally change my vocal placement (high or low) depending on how much singing I’m doing,” she explained. She playfully concluded this point with an exasperated “Bye,” seemingly dismissing the controversy.
This isn’t the first time Grande has spoken about vocal health. She has previously discussed the importance of vocal care, calling it “a full-time commitment and a lifestyle.” This dedication is understandable considering the immense strain singers put on their voices.
Grande’s comments also highlight a gendered double standard in entertainment. Male actors often undergo significant vocal transformations for roles without much scrutiny, while female celebrities face more intense public criticism for even minor changes. Grande’s playful defiance, “God Forbid I Sneeze Like Glinda,” is a pointed reminder of this disparity.
Whether fans will continue to be intrigued by Grande’s vocal fluctuations remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Ariana Grande is a talented vocalist who prioritizes her instrument’s health. And while she may not always sound like the Ariana fans are accustomed to, she’s certainly not afraid to speak her mind, even if it’s in a slightly different register.
