Ariana Grande released her fifth studio album, thank u, next, Friday morning at 12 am, a short six months after her hit album sweetener. The past six months have been an emotional roller coaster for Grande, with the death of Mac Miller, whom she had dated for 2 years, and a failed engagement with comedian Pete Davidson. Her new twelve track album perfectly captures the emotional time for Grande.

“imagine,” a love song, is the first song of the album, and the second single. The hit, released on Dec.14th, has a retro beat, impressive whistle notes and Grande’s seductive voice.  

“ghostin’,” Grande’s eighth song on the album, is rumored to be about how Grande dealt with Miller’s death and how his death affected her relationship with Davidson. She sings, “I know that it breaks your heart when I cry again/Over him, mmh/I know it breaks your heart when I cry again.” These lyrics illustrate that Grande was still mourning Miller and in pain, and that Davidson had to adjust to the “baggage” Grande brought to the relationship after her loss.

With the release of thank u, next, Grande also released a music video for the last song on her album, “break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored.” With the release of the music video and catchy lyrics, the song has quickly become a fan favorite, with 47 million views in the first three days.  

However, the video has caused some controversies. The video shows Grande at a party, seemingly infatuated with a boy already in a relationship with a girl who looks similar to Grande. As the video ends, Grande goes in for a kiss with the other girl.

Fans have been speculating what the video could mean. Some think Grande might be bisexual, but others think Grande could be represented by both women, and how she wants to choose herself over a man and a relationship.  Overall the album has been very successful. Apple Music named thank u, next “Biggest Day 1 global pop album” and “Biggest day 1 global for female artist,” and fans should expect nothing less from the talented pop artist.

Rating: A-