Ariana Grande’s lead singles: ranked from worst to best

Over three years since the release of her last album, Positions, pop superstar Ariana Grande has made a triumphant return to the queer dance scene with her addictive track ‘Yes, and?’. The hit single is already topping the charts, with the music video accumulating an impressive 20 million views within the first week alone.

But as we look forward to her seventh studio album Eternal Sunshine, it’s making us nostalgic for the past 10 years of music by the singer songwriter – particularly all the singles that led us into each era of pop. In honor of this reflection, here is a definitive ranking of the artist’s lead singles so far.

Image Credit: Emma

7. Problem (2014)

The first major single to show off the sheer range of Ariana Grande’s vocal ability, it’s no wonder this track from her second studio album My Everything was chosen to lead us into her sophomore era. From the earworm of a chorus to the memorable hook, as well as Iggy Azalea’s addictive contribution to the track, it’s still a track that absolutely works.

However, considering the rest of her lead singles, it’s perhaps the song that has dated the most. Problem gives very 2014 vibes – which is fun for a nostalgic throwback, but not necessarily on our everyday playlists.

6. The Way (2013)

A song that captivates listeners with its infectious melody and charming lyrics, Ariana’s debut single still remains a firm fan favorite. This feel-good pop hit features rapper Mac Miller, with whom Ariana had undoubtable musical chemistry with, and with its R&B-tinged beat and memorable chorus, The Way is still very much a standout track in Grande's discography.

It perhaps lacks the lyrical maturity and bite we’ve come to expect from her music nowadays, but for a debut single, there’s no denying how impressive and timeless this track is.

5. Positions

In 2020, Ariana entered her most sexually free and most mature era yet. It might seem a strange thing to say given the concept of the second single 34+35, but setting aside the fun innuendos, this record really saw Ariana reach a new level of self-expression and confidence.

The lead single from the album of the same name, Positions, was a light-hearted foray into the singer’s conscience, as she deliberates what role she plays in her lover’s life. With an incredibly catchy hook and angelic instrumentation, this track was the perfect opening choice to guide fans into this era.

4. Yes, And?

After three years of no new music, Grande fans were ecstatic to see the first few weeks of 2024 feature promotional material for a brand-new song titled Yes, And?, with its accompanying music video. Inspired heavily by Madonna’s vogue, this track gives us a glimpse into a new style of music for the pop star – house and dance inspired beats.

Combined with her signature vocal performance and audacious lyrics, this is already a promising start to the next era of Grande.

3. Dangerous Woman

Gone are the days of bubblegum pop and fun dance numbers – this single, album and era completely changed the game for Ariana. This rare foray into pop-rock allowed her to express herself sensually, and finally completely separate herself from her Nickelodeon beginnings.

Perhaps her most impressive vocal performance in any of the singles listed here, this timeless track with its memorable melody and addictive guitar solo hits just as hard now as it did in 2016.

2. Thank U, Next

Mere months after the release of her Grammy-award winning fourth record Sweetener, Grande shocked everyone by dropping surprise single Thank U, Next on streaming platforms. The tune immediately went viral, and for good reason, as it directly addressed Ariana’s (much reported) dating life, name-dropping the main men in her life and how she reflects upon them now.

However, despite the opening verse being quite specific to Ariana’s life, she still managed to make a track relatable to anyone who hears it – about embracing past trials and trauma and using it to guide your future for the better.

1. No Tears Left to Cry

No one knew what to expect from Ariana, following the gap between Dangerous Woman and this new era. With many impactful and tragic events taking place during this time, most notably the 2017 Manchester bombing at one of her concerts, it would have been understandable if Grande wanted to leave the music industry altogether.

However, through an incredible display of resilience and empowerment, she released the debut single from her album Sweetener, titled No Tears Left to Cry. Released alongside perhaps her greatest music video to date, the track features mind-blowing vocals, addictive hooks, and open and honest lyrics that have earned this single our eternal respect, and the top spot on our list.

Read related myGwork articles here:

LGBTQ+ Music to Keep an Ear Out for in 2024

Six Trans Musicians Redefining the Music Industry

Ranking LGBTQ+ Albums: Lady Gaga

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