Since the beginning of her career in the public eye, Ariana Grande has faced intense scrutiny regarding the sound of her speaking voice. This attention is so significant that YouTube hosts "Ariana Grande voice evolution" videos, some amassing over a million views, highlighting the widespread curiosity and debate.
Accusations and Changes Over the Years
For approximately the past decade, Grande has been accused of speaking in various pitches and accents. During her peak as a pop star, critics noted an apparent "Blaccent," adding to the ongoing discussions about her vocal authenticity. However, the scrutiny intensified a few years ago when she began portraying Glinda in the "Wicked" movie adaptations.
In videos and interviews from that period, Grande noticeably adopted a higher-pitched speaking voice. This post-"Wicked" vocal style has been compared to a transatlantic accent, a blend of English and American accents historically used by actors during Hollywood's Golden Age.
Grande's Explanation for Vocal Shifts
Grande, who continues to speak in this manner today, has previously addressed accusations that her accent is "fake." She explained that she alters her "vocal placement" as a technique to help preserve her vocal cords for both singing and speaking engagements.
On the "SmartLess" podcast last year, she responded to comments about her "real voice," stating, "It's just something that's healthy for the voice. It's just basically pitching your voice up a tiny bit. It's just a normal thing for vocalists." She emphasized, "People are like, 'That's not her natural voice.' And I'm like, 'Well, it is actually, but it's just a little higher.' All of it is natural."
Fans React to a Return to Deeper Tones
For those who have missed hearing Grande's deeper speaking voice, there is exciting news on the horizon. In November, she will return to acting in "Focker In-Law," the latest sequel in the "Meet the Parents" franchise, co-starring Robert De Niro and Ben Stiller. Grande plays the titular in-law, Olivia Jones, who marries into the Focker family.
Based on the newly released trailer, it appears Grande has tapped into some of her deeper vocal tones for this role. After the trailer dropped, fans took to social media to express their reactions. One fan tweeted, "Genuinely gasped hearing her speak without the Glinda voice for the first time in 3 years."
Another echoed, "her normal speaking voice is so tea oh how i've missed her," while a user joked that she "put some bass" into her speech. An excited comment read, "THE REAL VOICE IM GAGGING."
Analyzing the Vocal Shift in the Trailer
While some may still detect hints of the "Glinda voice," there is no doubt that Grande accesses her "old voice" in key moments, such as when she delivers the line: "Would you like to ask me some questions, Greg?" This delivery evokes memories of her 2020 vocal style, showcasing a blend of her evolving techniques.
The trailer for "Focker In-Law" offers a glimpse into Grande's versatile acting and vocal abilities, sparking renewed interest in her personal and professional journey. As discussions about her voice continue, this role may provide further insight into how she balances vocal health with artistic expression.
