In a special appearance for BBC Radio 1's iconic Live Lounge series in September 2018, pop superstar Ariana Grande delivered a stunning and intimate performance that showcased the incredible depth of her vocal talent. Stripping away the grand-scale production of her arena tours, this session offered a rare, up-close look at her artistry, backed by a lush orchestra that added new layers of emotion to her recent hits.
The setlist was a celebration of her critically acclaimed album "Sweetener," released just a month prior. Grande performed powerful renditions of fan favorites like "No Tears Left To Cry," the ethereal "R.E.M.," and the commanding anthem "God Is A Woman." Each song was re-imagined for the unique Live Lounge setting, allowing her voice to soar freely over the intricate string and brass arrangements, proving her capabilities as one of the foremost vocalists of her generation.
Perhaps the most talked-about moment of the session was her unexpected and masterful cover of Thundercat's groovy, bass-driven track "Them Changes." The choice surprised many and demonstrated her wide-ranging musical taste and versatility. By flawlessly navigating the song's complex melodies and funk rhythms, Grande not only paid homage to a fellow artist she admires but also asserted her own credentials as a true musician, comfortable in any genre.