Pop star Ariana Grande’s newest album “thank u, next,” released on Feb. 8, has brought a freshness that is much needed in the music scene right now. Singles from the album “thank u, next,” “7 rings” and “break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored,” have taken the top three on Billboard’s Hot 100. Grande is the first artist to do this since The Beatles.

This is her fifth album, with her fourth album “Sweetener” released in August 2018. By releasing two albums in such close proximity, it increases the popularity of her music.

This is Grande’s most vulnerable album as she shares her struggles. In each song, she shows her audience a more emotional side, which is different from her typically more surface-level pop songs.

The single, “thank u next,” came out shortly after Grande’s engagement to Pete Davidson ended. In the song, Grande thanks her ex but makes it clear that she is ready to move on by focusing on herself. She talks about herself with the lyrics: “She taught me love/ She taught me patience/ How she handles pain/ That s**** amazing.” With lyrics celebrating self-growth, this song serves as an empowering anthem.

Songs with a heavier beat and flow similar to early 2000s R&B, “7 rings” and “break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored,” are the best to listen to when you just want to dance. However, the lyrics in “7 rings” are highly materialistic, with lines like “happiness is the same price as red bottoms.”

Following more controversial lyrics, Grande’s morals seem a little skewed in “break up with your girlfriend, i’m bored.” Despite these shallow lyrics, the melodies and production of these songs make them irresistible to groove to when they’re on.

Grande’s transparency in this album is so refreshing, as most artists are more mysterious in their lyrics. I recommend this album to anyone needing some music to make them feel empowered and lift their spirits.