Ariana Grande Celebrated the One-Year Anniversary of “Thank U, Next”
Ariana Grande is celebrating the one-year anniversary of her hit album thank u, next — and she’s opening up about how much the project meant to her.
The platinum album was released on February 8, 2019, and, according to Ariana, it served as a huge eye-opener in her life. “Making this project with so many dear friends quite literally saved my life and gave me the courage to be vulnerable and be honest with people,” she wrote in an emotionally candid Instagram post on the album’s first birthday, adding a thank-you to her fans for allowing her to feel safe and heard. “It is nice (and so healing) to know that I don’t have to hide behind a weird, polished pop star facade and that I’m able to connect with so many people over my truths and pain,” she continued. “I know that should have clicked for me sooner but it didn’t and I want to thank u for showing me first hand that it is okay. All of it.”
Ariana went on to say that she’s still writing and creating lately (!!) but she’s taking her time with any upcoming music. (After all, she released her last two studio albums within less than a year of one another, which was certainly no easy feat.) “But I do look forward to this new chapter and sharing more stories / life with u,” Ari concluded, adding: “Sending a tremendous, warm hug.”
The singer-songwriter’s message resonated with fans, who reciprocated the lovefest with warm words of their own. “The album is still a bop. Best for this season. Absolutely beautiful, cheers for your talent and hard work, and thank you for this post,” one fan wrote, while another Arianator commented: “Really well said. Thank you for being your true self with us. Hugging you back.”
We’ll have to wait and see what Ariana’s next chapter entails, but if it’s anything like her Sweetener / thank u, next era, we can bet she’ll continue helping fans feel seen and heard, and undoubtedly less alone.
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Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue
