‘Yes, And?’: What do People Think About Ariana Grande’s New Track

Ariana Grande received mixed reactions to her upcoming seventh record and her first solo single since 2020, ‘Yes, And?’

“In: Minding your own business. Out: Sticking your nose into other people’s personal lives.” This sage advice takes on added significance for Grande, who faced scrutiny and speculation about her personal life in the latter half of 2023, particularly regarding her divorce and rumoured relationship with Ethan Slater, her co-star in the upcoming film adaptation of ‘Wicked.’

In response to the prying eyes and wagging tongues, Grande’s ‘Yes, And?’ delivers a polite yet pointed message, essentially telling critics and the rumour mill to take a back seat. “I’m so done with caring what you think,” she declares early in the song. “No, I won’t hide underneath your projections or change my most authentic life.” It’s a sentiment that echoes Grande’s previous appeals for empathy, urging everyone to just feel lit inside.

Reuniting with producers Max Martin and Ilya Salmanzadeh, known for their work on the hook-heavy R&B of 2019’s ‘Thank U, Next,’ Grande’s latest track channels the spirit of Blond Ambition–era Madonna. While not directly interpolating ‘Vogue’ as initially reported, the song captures the essence of Madonna’s 1990 hit through a familiar snare and a downtempo, spoken-word break.

‘Yes, And?’ doesn’t break a sweat; it glistens. The track unfolds with a disco-lite groove after a lengthy instrumental intro, punctuated by occasional sparkly, cascading synth lines that are likely to define pop music post-Renaissance. Embracing her role as pop’s preeminent theatre enthusiast, Grande teases out the titular phrase, infusing the guiding principle of improv comedy with a playful wink.

Unlike her previous hits, there’s no “yuh” to be heard, and she steers clear of the lubricated horndog energy that defined 2020’s ‘Positions.’ The boldest she gets is during the break: “Why do you care so much whose di*k I ride?” A clap back that echoes the unbothered, self-assured attitude Grande exudes throughout the majority of the track, delivered in a silky coo, with her signature belt making a powerful appearance in the final moments.

In ‘Yes, And?’ Ariana Grande extends an invitation to her listeners: put on your lipstick, gather your longest extensions into a tight ponytail, and hit the dance floor. This track is not just a musical statement; it’s Grande’s proclamation of confidence and individuality in the face of scrutiny, setting the tone for her upcoming album.