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### Insights from Ariana Grande’s Collaboration with Max Martin
– Ariana Grande recently opened up about her creative collaboration with renowned producer Max Martin on an episode of “Hot Ones.”
– During the recording of her 2014 smash hit ”Break Free,” Martin provided unusual feedback, insisting that she should aim for a vocal style that he described as “pingy” and “annoying,” which initially frustrated her.
#### The Evolution of “Break Free”
Although “Break Free” is now celebrated as one of Ariana Grande’s signature tracks, when it was first produced over ten years ago, she wasn’t fully enthusiastic about it. This pulsating anthem debuted as a single from her second album in 2014 and featured production by Max Martin—one of pop music’s most successful producers who holds the record for having more chart-topping singles than anyone else in Billboard Hot 100 history.
In conversation during the latest episode of “Hot Ones,” Grande expressed appreciation for Martin’s musical insights. She cited “Break Free” as a key moment in their ongoing partnership.
#### Overcoming Artistic Doubts
“I was quite young then and I honestly didn’t want to follow his direction on ‘say I don’t want ya,’” said Grande, illustrating how she sung part of the song’s chorus. She recounted how Martin insisted that it should sound more vibrant and even slightly irritating, prompting her to deliver an exaggerated vocal performance out of sheer frustration. Astonishingly, this take ended up being just what he wanted.
“That version made it onto the track,” she chuckled while reminiscing. “He was like, ‘Perfect! That’s all I needed.’”
#### Reflecting on Past Work
Grande is known for candidly evaluating her earlier work—even songs that garnered considerable acclaim from fans. For example, she labeled “Touch It” as unexciting and shared relief when audiences requested its removal from her concert setlist.
Nevertheless, she’s shifted perspectives regarding “Break Free.” Nowadays, she finds joy in performing this particular piece due to its positive reception among listeners.
“I’m very grateful because I’ve come to understand why people connect with it so deeply,” she said enthusiastically, calling Martin both an amazing friend and substantial source of inspiration.
“It doesn’t bother me now at all,” she noted with relief. However, looking back at those formative artistic years brought some skepticism: back then—during moments filled with self-doubt—she wondered if his vision was indeed serious.
### Navigating Personal Growth Through Music
In later discussions during the show, Grande delved into how tough juggling fame can be at such a young age—in particular around 19 or 20—and acknowledged these experiences are intertwined with many songs from that time period.
“The journey becomes reflected in some emotional tracks; often they carry elements tied closely to their inspirations,” explained Grande thoughtfully.
“Over time—with personal development—I’ve learned to embrace those past works rather than feeling overwhelmed by them; now hearing them fills me with pride rather than melancholy.”
Since bursting onto the scene with her first studio album *Yours Truly* back in 2013 and following up recently this year with *Eternal Sunshine*, it’s evident that Ariana continues evolving artistically while embracing every step along her journey.
