Pop fans were in for an early Halloween treat the night of Oct. 30 when teen idol Ariana Grande dropped her newest single “Focus” with an accompanying music video. The single comes from her next album “Moonlight,” which is expected to hit stands in 2016.
The lyrics of “Focus” literally explain the title of the song. Through this song, Grande is trying to prove to fans, friends, family and even haters that she is committed to her work and does not plan on changing for anyone.
I can feel the sense of empowerment and determination that Grande expresses in this song. One stand out line included: “I’m over here doing what I like. I’m over here working day and night. And if my real ain’t real enough I’m sorry for you.”
I also appreciate how she is putting her critics down while at the same time not letting them get to her head: “Let’s find a light inside our universe now where ain’t nobody keep on holding us down. Just come and get it, let them say what they say cause I’m about to put them all away.” She clearly seems focused on her career, success, and ultimate happiness, as should we all.
Upon listening for the first time, I was in for a surprise once I got to the middle of the song, when an unidentified male voice starts aggressively yelling, “Focus on me!” Fans and myself alike were curious to know who this special guest is on the song. Grande teased fans, asking them to tweet their guesses. Luckily, Grande finally announced that the mystery man is, wait for it, actor and singer, Jamie Foxx.
In the video, Grande flaunts her typical, petite look: a short two piece dress and half-up ponytail, but this time with a neon and metallic twist, giving off a futuristic vibe. She also dances around with a cell phone in hand, making for the perfect selfie moment.
Before becoming the unique voice we know her as today, Grande began her career in the Broadway musical, “13.” Eventually, her one of a kind talent caught the attention of Nickelodeon producers. Continuing with her acting career, Grande landed the role of Cat Valentine on the series, “Victorious” in 2009 and started to gather a fan base for herself.
This was just the beginning of her soon-to-be life of fame and fortune. Grande’s career has only skyrocketed since then. Over the years, she has performed at the Grammys and accumulated numerous awards for herself, including the American Music Award for New Artist of the Year in 2013 and the People’s Choice Award for Favorite Breakout Artist in 2014. Her latest number one album, “My Everything,” included an impressive five singles, all of which went straight to top 10 on the charts. She has not branched completely away from her acting roots, either. Grande makes appearances in the newest Fox thrill series, “Scream Queens,” where she plays Chanel #2, a member of the Kappa Kappa Tau sorority.
With all of this success and more to come, it looks like Grande and her angelic voice will not be leaving the entertainment scene anytime soon.
Feature Image: Alien_Artifact Photo, Courtesy of Flickr URL
