Ariana Grande has recently addressed the buzz surrounding a viral video that showcased a sudden change in her vocal pitch. The Grammy-winning artist, known for her powerful voice and chart-topping hits, found herself at the center of social media discussions after a clip from her appearance on Penn Badgley’s “Podcrushed” podcast went viral.
In the video, Grande is seen speaking in a lower-pitched voice before abruptly switching to a higher tone. This unexpected shift sparked a flurry of comments on TikTok, with one user noting, “I don’t even know what her real voice sounds like anymore.” The video quickly gained traction, amassing over 6 million views.
Grande, who is no stranger to the spotlight, took to the comment section to clarify the reason behind her vocal change. She explained, “habit (speaking like this for two years) and also vocal health 🙂 🍵 i intentionally change my vocal placement (high / low) often depending on how much singing i’m doing 😭 i’ve always done this BYE.”
Fans were quick to draw parallels between her high-pitched voice and the one she uses for her role as Glinda in the upcoming “Wicked” film. One commenter humorously remarked, “oh GLINDA FREE MY GIRL,” while another noted, “Cat is coming back,” referencing her early career role as Cat Valentine on Nickelodeon’s “Victorious” and “Sam & Cat.”
During her podcast appearance, Grande also touched on her experience working on “Wicked,” her recent album “Eternal Sunshine,” and her time on Nickelodeon. She expressed support for her fellow Nickelodeon alumni who have spoken out about the network and its controversial director, Dan Schneider.
The singer, who wrapped up filming for “Wicked” in January 2024, has been busy with various projects. Despite releasing her seventh studio album, “Eternal Sunshine,” she hinted at more new music on the horizon. Grande’s role in “Wicked” has required her to transform her voice, a process she described as rigorous. “I had to deconstruct to prove to them I could handle taking on this other person,” she shared in an interview with Zack Sang.
The viral video and Grande’s subsequent explanation have sparked a mix of reactions online. Some fans joked about the change, likening it to switching to a “customer service voice” at work. Others were more supportive, understanding the need for vocal preservation, especially given her demanding singing roles.
Grande’s voice change has also drawn comparisons to actor Austin Butler, who famously adopted Elvis Presley’s voice for the 2022 film “Elvis.” Butler struggled to shake off the voice even after filming, a situation some fans humorously linked to Grande’s current vocal adjustments.
In her response, Grande emphasized that changing her vocal placement is a long-standing habit aimed at maintaining her vocal health. “I’ve always done this,” she reiterated, addressing the speculation and criticism head-on.
As fans eagerly await the release of “Wicked” in November, Grande’s vocal versatility continues to be a topic of fascination. Her ability to switch between different vocal registers, whether for a role or to preserve her voice, showcases her dedication to her craft and her commitment to delivering top-notch performances.
Grande’s candid explanation and the support from her fans highlight the complexities of being a professional singer and actress. As she navigates her career, balancing vocal health with the demands of her roles, Grande remains a beloved figure in the entertainment industry, continually evolving and adapting to new challenges.
