surprise! we released our general sale tickets a little early for my YT early birds :) come see me and madeline recapping the lover era on June 20 in London for a one night performance of Evolution of a Snake (!!!): www.eventbrite.com/e/evolution-of-a-snake-the-taylor-swift-podcast-live-tickets-847113588547?aff=oddtdtcreator
I think "but at least I look this good" is not a lazy line, Ariana is so comedic and as you said, has a hard time confronting emotions head-on. It's an element of comedic relief that I think she needed in order to feel good about the song. Like in the vulnerable last verse of thank u next when she says "God forbid something happens, least this song is a smash"
also, if u look at the song in a different light, it becomes something totally different. i think the song is about how she is portrayed in the media, 'dont wanna let this story die', 'papers and pens', 'me and my truth we sit in silence' referring to how she never replies, 'u got me misunderstood but at least i look this good' as in youre reporting on the story wrong and using my face for it
I agree that it's not a lazy line, but I actually read it more, in the context of the prior lyrics, that her partner doesn't understand her, her intentions, how she's feeling, but seems to value or appreciate her body/aesthetics. Like sure, you don't get *me* but I'm still hot to you so it's whatever.
My husband likes to poke fun at all the Taylor content I watch, so I like to point out when I'm watching non-Taylor things. I said "Look! Zach isn't talking about Taylor Swift" and he said "Just you wait, it'll turn into Taylor Swift" and literally less than 40 seconds later you mentioned Taylor Swift! Way to make my husband "right" lol... I have to laugh...
There is a effect where If ur Taylor fan , people around will also be turned into Taylor fan 😂 They might not say it but they want to know or hear abt Taylor as much as you do.
She’s really in her prime here, I feel like positions as an album has great staying power and will continue to age well, and eternal sunshine is finally a collected cohesive project that feels like more than just a tracklist of radio bops and ballads. Top three: 1. Supernatural (horny Ariana just never misses tbh 💀) 2. We can’t be friends 3. Eternal sunshine
Zach, watching your videos is like being in a college level lecture. I am interested in what you have to say, I feel smarter after every one of these thoughtful breakdowns. I’m not even that interested in Ariana but you just have a way of presenting that keeps me engaged. Thank you for your work.
This album has no skips. Beautifully produced, modern and nostalgic. The whispers of “real life events” is just a cherry on top that makes us connect with the artist, but not a necessity.
@@pan6529”yes, and?” is a great song, but I get where you’re coming from. It’s sonically different from the rest of the album. Should’ve been released as a non-album single.
My top 3: 1. We can't be friends (w4yl) 2. Supernatural 3. Eternal sunshine Really enjoyed the album, it was the first Ariana album I've listened to all the way through and it was great
This is by far my favorite Ariana Grande album as well. The tracklist is cohesive and concise, the production is so dreamy and ethereal, Ariana's lyricism - while still clunky at times - has seen a huge improvement, and I love seeing Ariana get more involved in the production side of things. This is a side of her that I hope she explores more and more, because it's something that not many people know about her. She knows her way around a soundboard and this shows just how much of an impact Imogen Heap has had on women in music. It's just a shame that I think this album is going to fly under the radar because of the drama. I truly don't understand why people care so much about something that, at the end of the day, is messy interpersonal drama between three parties that doesn't have anything to do with us. She didn't commit a heinous crime, she didn't abuse anybody, she didn't do or say anything bigoted, or anything that truly warrants a cancellation. She just has a messy love life, and the specifics of that are truly none of our fucking business. If the allegations are true, it's still so misogynistic the way everyone paints her as the sole villain. "She broke up a happy marriage" - as if Ethan didn't have any agency in this as well. If this is all true, then he was the one who made the decision to cheat on his wife. And assuming this is all true (which we don't actually know for sure), then yes, Ariana's moral character deserves to be called into question. But painting her as the sole villain and being so pressed about it as if she did this to YOU is misogyny. Especially because, look at so many male artists who have done worse things and still have a career. If this stupid drama kills Ariana's career, while Kanye West still has a career... I don't know what to tell you, other than we really love blaming women for everything. It's a cringe line, but Ariana was right: "Why do you care whose dick I ride?"
Taylor Swift's stuff is Taylor Swift's. Bashing Ariana isn't going to make Taylor any better. I think the Taylor Swift cult seems to be involved in this bashing. Their Swifty cult membership has something to do with their nastyness. It is really bad and does not look good for whatever Taylor has done to attract these sort of nasty people or foster this kind of abusive mob. It is hard to tell from comments tho. I asked some and they didn't deny being Swifties but maybe they are quite comfortable to hide behind Taylor Swift and won't admit who they really are and what their agenda is. They could turn on anyone or be used for many bad things so this sort of mob behavior is really very dangerous. There was some signs maybe there was some legislation to do with children or they are related to psychiatry and stuff. Ariana made a video where she said how she was healthier now and used to be talking alot of antidepressants shortly before this smear campaign began. These abusers have long been attacking children with such poisons. They are treasonous criminals. People don't fund research so narc abuse can be mainstreamed.
Can we talk about her vocals during the SNL performance? It was so fun to hear her bring in her signature sound in the live versions because the album was so vocally held back.
I found you last year and appreciate your take on splitting art from artist, and the spicy takes and feather ruffling you can do. Not many are doing that anymore, in a genuine way.
Ordinary Things is my favorite song, I feel like it is being very overlooked. The production is so beautiful and the vocal melodies are incredible. I just wish it was longer.
i also overlooked it at first but what else can u expect when its a closing track😭imo closing tracks are doomed to be overlooked and sometimes least streamed from the album but the chorus is really catchy i like it
The word “ordinary” just doesn’t fit and she’s saying it really weirdly to try to get it to fit. Lol I think that’s why people aren’t really liking it.
@myself just now realizing she’s saying ordinary weirdly so that it doesn’t sound “ordinary.” Lol I get it I appreciate it.. but it makes me not like the song. Lol
I was judging her for a whole year and then I suddenly remembered that 2 years ago I wanted this man so bad I thought he would choose me over his girlfriend... I just erased it from my memory. That's when I understood that I' ll better keep myself in check than judging celebrities I know nothing about.
I love this album and I was impatiently waiting for your video! My top 3 is ordinary things, imperfect for you (what can I say!!! I love love) and eternal sunshine
yesssss i'm so glad u made a video about eternal sunshine! i love this album so much it's one of my favs (but that could just be bc its new). my top three are definitely imperfect for you, true story, and eternal sunshine. some honorable mentions are definitely intro and bye. the intro is so magical!
I love you as a journalist and a writer. Your storytelling is so cohesive and enjoyable and your vernacular is *chefs kiss* makes you so engaging and welcoming to audiences while still reporting to such a professional caliber. (Makes sense with ur journalism background but I thought I’d let you know in case no one has patted you on the back today)
The way you speak about the artists as such a fan but also are able to have a level headed approach is amazing. The way you can deep dive into all the references and talk about Ariana and the songs and the albums and her journey is just breathtaking. Im actually just overwhelmed with how well you can talk about these albums. There’s nothing I love more than someone who can truly understand the intricacies within music and you do it so well. Thank you
I listened to the album last night for the first time and was kind of blown away by the album on the whole, at least sonically. I might be biased since 1) I’m really digging the theme because Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is one of my favorite films (as a theatre kid myself, I’m living for this concept), and 2) I was a young teen in the mid-late 90’s so all the references you made to other artists of that time make perfect sense and might be partly why I found myself vibing and falling in love so fast and hard upon first listen. Sonically it’s ethereal, emotional, and energetic. I’m sure upon further listening I’ll find more nuance in the record but as of right now it’s my favorite album she’s released so far. I really appreciate all the points you made and will definitely be considering them as I listen again.
this album is really special to me and one of her best albums to date FOR SURE, here’s my top 3: 1. we can’t be friends (wait for your love) 2. true story 3. eternal sunshine
i believe ariana has mentioned that she intends to make "many more" music videos for the album so i'm really hoping eternal sunshine eventually becomes a visual album by the end of its era! truly appreciate the objective and well-researched review. 💚
Curious what you think about “we can’t be friends” being about the general public/critics/ even her fans? The “papers and pens” line and her not wanting to answer the question who the song is about in the Zac Sang interview sold it for me. Honestly, it made me respect her even more considering all the parasocial pop star relationships. Also feels very self aware “I’ll wait for your love”
I don't really put a lot of stock into that opinion bc I think the lyrics quite clearly describe a public breakup, and the video depicts pretty much the whole conceit of the album mediated through the lyrics of this song. there's a BTS video she just uploaded where she talks about what the song actually means, and it's not about the media lmao
I thought being played like Atari might be a reference to page 6 via page 6 Atari magazine. In this song tho the papers and pens maybe represent fixed ideas or ones influenced or altered by media or smear. Maybe getting back to the truth after being brainwashed. It is a bit like honeymoon avenue. The live from london last year is one of her best performances.
zach, i LOVE your analysis! was really waiting for this one. i've missed ari in the popscape, and i'm really appreciating her artistic growth and contributions on this new record :)
I know this video is about Ari (who I love with my whole heart), I couldn't help but draw parallels between this album and Taylor's discography (mainly Midnights). Personally, this is impressive to me, because it means Ari has reached a level of songwriting where she is able to articulate her feelings and vulnerability in a way that touches you deep in your soul. And no, I don't care that she doesn't throw around big words for the sake of it, it's not about the words, but what you do with them. This album touched me in a way that her previous work didn't as much and I'm "eternally🤭" grateful for that ❤☀
I was literally searching for a swiftologist video on eternal sunshine yesterday, and when i couldn’t find one, i hoped it would come out soon. thank you for sharing your thoughts! couldn’t agree more on soooo many points you made. it’s nice to see someone who has done their research and dives deep into the source material’s meaning, while interpreting it in such a relatable way… AND pushing the discussion in new directions that many media sources and reactors completely miss… this is why i love your videos. ❤
thanks so much for watching!! this is why I really wanted to do a review and not a reaction, as soon as I heard it I knew it would 1. be misunderstood and 2. deserved a craft analysis beyond the gossip
Eternal sunshine is one of my favorite movies mostly because I’m a Long Island native so when she centered the theme of this album around the movie I was more emotional than I should’ve been, that music video was a perfect tribute to the movie
@@theswiftologist you know I only appreciate Long Island now because I’ve lived in Nashville for 5 years but I will say watching the movie now makes me a little homesick and I appreciate it a little more lol I didn’t understand why everyone back home liked it so much until I saw it and I went “wait is he talking about Montauk as in like an hour away???” Now I’m going to re watch it and feel all new feelings
this was such a pleasant watch because i've seen ariana stans love the album & the non-fans just ok it or say it was bad. everything you said had me nodding along like SOMEONE GETS IT! my top 3 are eternal sunshine, i wish i hated you, & supernatural
No one's saying its bad except for the chart obsessed swifties on twitter who hate ariana because she is a competition to Taylor, every other fandom member I've seen are adoring this record.
@@hassanmansour9857 we must be on different sides of the internet - glad yours is loving ari but mine is mostly not lol. i actually had someone tell me they don't take my opinions on music seriously anymore bc i love this album
I saw someone said We can’t be friends is written from Ariana to the media/public and now I can’t unsee it. It completely changes me whole meaning of the song
I had the same thought- it’s like she talking to the public - “how you paint me” I’m still here hanging. “Wait until you like me again” - she’s had a revolving door of love and hate from the public towards her for years. Me and my truth we sit in silence- you got me misunderstood. The relationship btwn a celebrity and the public is weird and not real bc we don’t know them. But we’d all like to just pretend…
i feel like going from eternal sunshine to supernatural kind of dulled down supernatural imo. i mean going from eternal sunshine with debatably the catchiest chorus of the album and such a golden amazing beautiful bridge to supernatural made supernatural doomed to be frowned upon. i also think supernatural ft troye is better than the original. true story though... dont even get me started i could write a whole essay on why true story is one of my favs from ari of all time
zach is just wanted to thank you sm for sharing your opinions and creating content. i’ve been really sick lately and evolution of a snake has helped me through every day so muchhhh!(i somehow listened to every episode in 2 weeks which may be slightly concerning loll) you just have such a radiant personality and are SO ARTICULATE with your thoughts and whatnot! i hope you have an amazing day💕💕💕
My favorites are bye, don’t wanna break up again, eternal sunshine, I wish I hated you and we can’t be friends. I love the album overall!! I think while the relationship bit reflected in the album was a great analysis, I think after “true story” till “we can’t be friends” we have a double or multiple meaning to the songs, all which correlate to “yes, and?” So even if sonicly the song is a standout in the sense of it being very different, that the theme is similar: “this is a true story about all the lies you fantasize about you and I” criticizing how people paint her and make their own stories in their minds of who she is, “the boy is mine” is taking is further, getting into that role that people and the media created in “true story”, then “yes, and?” It’s her way of answering back, while “we can’t be friends” can also be used as a vulnerable side to it “me and my truth we sit in silence” and “you cling to your papers and pens, wait until you like me again”, finally ending in the bridge where she sings “I don’t like how you paint me” and “not what you made me”, sharing her dislike of the situation, but realizing there’s no use in looking for their validation anymore, that’s at the end of the day she’ll have herself and that’s all she needs, and she feels seen in the “night”, when the lights from the camera are away, with the people she cares about.
amazing vid, as always!! ur so incredibly well spoken and it's always a pleasure to hear ur thoughts. :) as a longtime ari fan, the refined maturity of the work def stood out to me too. (ALSO HER ENUNCIATION??? she's finally saying shit with her chesttt.) but this album was glittery melancholy. shimmeringly beautiful and easily her magnum opus.
great video and analysis as ALWAYS!! u never fail to deliver 😝 its so hard to pick just 3 of my favourites but it has to be dont wanna break up again, supernatural and that boy is mine
I've been listening to this album on repeat since it came out. Although I wish some of the notes were a little more belty instead of this airy tone, I understand why she did it. Her performance overall is sooo good.
I think the lyrics "at least i look this good" is because we cant be friends is not meant to be for her ex, but to her fans and the media, for putting her name in the trash and now, that she is back with a movie and a record, will just pretend they never hurt her or talk shit about her. So the line is a hint about the whole body shamming she suffered. My faves are imperfect for you, eternal sunshine and wait for your love
Aianators didn't talk shit about her. It was the swifties surely trying to boost Taylor using dirty tactics. It really undermines her acomplishments when you realize how manufactured they are. She probably uses bots to boost her numbers and CIA money to buy her tckets and advertise on CNN. So fake. A billion $? What a joke. They probably spent 10 billion promoting her and the tour has been a huge loss. Maybe there is a whole swifty commune where the cult were busy making these nasty aricles and videos to try and tear down the competition. How else could they pass off Taylor Swift as the biggest star in history? 😆 Let's fly far, far away and never come back. The Swifites needs to be held to account. Lets not forget that there was already an attack on one of Ariana's concerts so this is very serious.
Usually watch on TikTok but huge Ariana fan so had to come to RUclips. Great video! My top 3 are 1. Eternal sunshine 2. We can’t be friends 3. Don’t wanna break up again
When I first heard "yes and" I was not impressed but it grew on me after a few listens. So I gave the album a couple of listens to see if it would grow on me too and it did. I'm not sure if it's her best album but it has a certain subtle beauty and has been living rent free in my head for days 🎧
Once you hear the theory that We Can't Be Friends is about the press and NOT a lover, everything makes so much more sense. She feels she cannot speak up or defend herself because the press will smear her anyways. The less she talks about it, the sooner the story (of her divorce and possible infidelity) dies, as referenced by the lyrics "Just wanna let this story die". She even sings "We can't be friends, but I'd like to just pretend. You cling to your papers and pens. Wait until you like me again." This verse was hard to understand as a song in reference to a lover. What would "cling to your papers and pens" even mean? It's about the fact that she'd like to imagine she is friends with her fans and the public at large, but in reality, she can never be that. Then she sings "Know that you made me. I don't like how you paint me, yet I'm still here hanging". Ariana knows that she would not be where she is today without her fans and media coverage. They made her the popstar that she is. At the same time, many scandals have come out over the course of her career, and she doesn't like how the press, according to her perspective, twist the narrative and misunderstand her. "Wait for your love" simply refers to the media cycle. She's been doing this for a decade. She always gets back up after bad press. She knows if she lies low, eventually the public with re-embrace her. She will return to our good graces. And she was right! With the release of Wicked, people to seem to be warming up to Ariana, and I do believe this album was her Magnum Opus. No one can deny her talent.
yes, and? is actually perfect on the album in terms of sequencing. we can’t be friends (wait for your love) refers to her relationship with the media and the general public, yes, and? sets it up very well.
Your opinions about yes, and? are exactly mine! I was terrified for the album and I wouldn't have listened to the album at all if I was not interested in Ariana's work. I was positively surprised and relieved that the album was nothing like yes, and? lol
The best way to make everyone forget about a scandal, enlist Max Martin and make bangers. Also the best way to make art is when you feel that you have nothing to lose. This is truly her best work and album of the year in my opinion (but I’m also okay with Beyoncé winning)
surprise! we released our general sale tickets a little early for my YT early birds :) come see me and madeline recapping the lover era on June 20 in London for a one night performance of Evolution of a Snake (!!!): www.eventbrite.com/e/evolution-of-a-snake-the-taylor-swift-podcast-live-tickets-847113588547?aff=oddtdtcreator
I think "but at least I look this good" is not a lazy line, Ariana is so comedic and as you said, has a hard time confronting emotions head-on. It's an element of comedic relief that I think she needed in order to feel good about the song. Like in the vulnerable last verse of thank u next when she says "God forbid something happens, least this song is a smash"
I agree, I think it was self-aware and cheeky
also, if u look at the song in a different light, it becomes something totally different. i think the song is about how she is portrayed in the media, 'dont wanna let this story die', 'papers and pens', 'me and my truth we sit in silence' referring to how she never replies, 'u got me misunderstood but at least i look this good' as in youre reporting on the story wrong and using my face for it
eh. I think it would be funny in another context but it does kinda take me out of my dramatic singing of the song lol
No I thought this was exactly a rip off of “at least this song is a smash” and does feel lazy and out of beat with the rest of the songs.
I agree that it's not a lazy line, but I actually read it more, in the context of the prior lyrics, that her partner doesn't understand her, her intentions, how she's feeling, but seems to value or appreciate her body/aesthetics. Like sure, you don't get *me* but I'm still hot to you so it's whatever.
My husband likes to poke fun at all the Taylor content I watch, so I like to point out when I'm watching non-Taylor things. I said "Look! Zach isn't talking about Taylor Swift" and he said "Just you wait, it'll turn into Taylor Swift" and literally less than 40 seconds later you mentioned Taylor Swift! Way to make my husband "right" lol... I have to laugh...
LMAO.....well.....
There is a effect where If ur Taylor fan , people around will also be turned into Taylor fan 😂 They might not say it but they want to know or hear abt Taylor as much as you do.
It's the TSCU and we all live in it
Zach, Mentioning Taylor swift? No, it couldn’t be.
or he can just be supportive and appreciate Zach’s thoughtful analysis and get off the making fun of liking Taylor Swift train…
Ariologist yuh
yuh yuh
😭😭
Oh this is what was getting me through the WEEK. bye, supernatural, and we can’t be friends are instant hits for me!
I have to agree w u doll....
Literally my two fav songs on the record😭
Stop those are my three too 🫶
6:27 doggy in the background is too precious 🥹
She’s really in her prime here, I feel like positions as an album has great staying power and will continue to age well, and eternal sunshine is finally a collected cohesive project that feels like more than just a tracklist of radio bops and ballads.
Top three:
1. Supernatural (horny Ariana just never misses tbh 💀)
2. We can’t be friends
3. Eternal sunshine
supernatural is great!!
Zach, watching your videos is like being in a college level lecture. I am interested in what you have to say, I feel smarter after every one of these thoughtful breakdowns. I’m not even that interested in Ariana but you just have a way of presenting that keeps me engaged. Thank you for your work.
thank you so much, that means a lot!!
Beautifully said 🤌🏻
This album has no skips. Beautifully produced, modern and nostalgic. The whispers of “real life events” is just a cherry on top that makes us connect with the artist, but not a necessity.
yes and is a skip imo
wait where did the whispers happen? please i need to know T.T
@@nguyenhaiang8545 oh no, that was a metaphor. 🩵
@@pan6529”yes, and?” is a great song, but I get where you’re coming from. It’s sonically different from the rest of the album. Should’ve been released as a non-album single.
@@nguyenhaiang8545 yes, and? Is great as a song but it doesn't fit the album or the vibe that it's building up to.
The fact that we can understand all of her words now speaks volumes--she's embracing a new era and I am here for it!!
Seated!
This album did things to me that i cant even explain
My top 3:
1. We can't be friends (w4yl)
2. Supernatural
3. Eternal sunshine
Really enjoyed the album, it was the first Ariana album I've listened to all the way through and it was great
Same! In that order
Me three, in that order
Same! ❤❤❤
I wish I hated you is so underrated
This is by far my favorite Ariana Grande album as well. The tracklist is cohesive and concise, the production is so dreamy and ethereal, Ariana's lyricism - while still clunky at times - has seen a huge improvement, and I love seeing Ariana get more involved in the production side of things. This is a side of her that I hope she explores more and more, because it's something that not many people know about her. She knows her way around a soundboard and this shows just how much of an impact Imogen Heap has had on women in music.
It's just a shame that I think this album is going to fly under the radar because of the drama. I truly don't understand why people care so much about something that, at the end of the day, is messy interpersonal drama between three parties that doesn't have anything to do with us. She didn't commit a heinous crime, she didn't abuse anybody, she didn't do or say anything bigoted, or anything that truly warrants a cancellation. She just has a messy love life, and the specifics of that are truly none of our fucking business. If the allegations are true, it's still so misogynistic the way everyone paints her as the sole villain.
"She broke up a happy marriage" - as if Ethan didn't have any agency in this as well. If this is all true, then he was the one who made the decision to cheat on his wife. And assuming this is all true (which we don't actually know for sure), then yes, Ariana's moral character deserves to be called into question. But painting her as the sole villain and being so pressed about it as if she did this to YOU is misogyny. Especially because, look at so many male artists who have done worse things and still have a career. If this stupid drama kills Ariana's career, while Kanye West still has a career... I don't know what to tell you, other than we really love blaming women for everything.
It's a cringe line, but Ariana was right: "Why do you care whose dick I ride?"
if it was a “happy marriage” ethan wouldn’t have cheated😭
totally agree!!!!! louder!!!
@@allofyourbestfriends5417ethan didnt cheat.
Taylor Swift's stuff is Taylor Swift's. Bashing Ariana isn't going to make Taylor any better. I think the Taylor Swift cult seems to be involved in this bashing. Their Swifty cult membership has something to do with their nastyness. It is really bad and does not look good for whatever Taylor has done to attract these sort of nasty people or foster this kind of abusive mob. It is hard to tell from comments tho. I asked some and they didn't deny being Swifties but maybe they are quite comfortable to hide behind Taylor Swift and won't admit who they really are and what their agenda is. They could turn on anyone or be used for many bad things so this sort of mob behavior is really very dangerous. There was some signs maybe there was some legislation to do with children or they are related to psychiatry and stuff. Ariana made a video where she said how she was healthier now and used to be talking alot of antidepressants shortly before this smear campaign began. These abusers have long been attacking children with such poisons. They are treasonous criminals. People don't fund research so narc abuse can be mainstreamed.
Can we talk about her vocals during the SNL performance? It was so fun to hear her bring in her signature sound in the live versions because the album was so vocally held back.
I found you last year and appreciate your take on splitting art from artist, and the spicy takes and feather ruffling you can do. Not many are doing that anymore, in a genuine way.
tysm diva!!
Ordinary Things is my favorite song, I feel like it is being very overlooked. The production is so beautiful and the vocal melodies are incredible. I just wish it was longer.
it's growing on me!
i also overlooked it at first but what else can u expect when its a closing track😭imo closing tracks are doomed to be overlooked and sometimes least streamed from the album but the chorus is really catchy i like it
The word “ordinary” just doesn’t fit and she’s saying it really weirdly to try to get it to fit. Lol I think that’s why people aren’t really liking it.
Matching suits lol. The girl is sublime.
@myself just now realizing she’s saying ordinary weirdly so that it doesn’t sound “ordinary.” Lol I get it I appreciate it.. but it makes me not like the song. Lol
I've never listened to an entire Ariana album before. This video convinced me to listen to Eternal Sunshine, and I'm glad I did!
I was judging her for a whole year and then I suddenly remembered that 2 years ago I wanted this man so bad I thought he would choose me over his girlfriend... I just erased it from my memory. That's when I understood that I' ll better keep myself in check than judging celebrities I know nothing about.
Well yes!!
Loved her snl performance!
same! understated and gorgeous
10/10 content Zach - loved this!!! My top 3 were supernatural, we can't be friends and eternal sunshine but with special mention to the intro.
great selects!! I love the intro too, it's so pretty
Ariana was my #26 most listened to artist of all time and now she’s my 3rd so uh I’ve listened to this album a couple times…
I love this album and I was impatiently waiting for your video! My top 3 is ordinary things, imperfect for you (what can I say!!! I love love) and eternal sunshine
I sense a lover stan in this comment section...
yesssss i'm so glad u made a video about eternal sunshine! i love this album so much it's one of my favs (but that could just be bc its new).
my top three are definitely imperfect for you, true story, and eternal sunshine. some honorable mentions are definitely intro and bye. the intro is so magical!
the intro is not getting enough credit including in this video lksdnflkjdsn
I love you as a journalist and a writer. Your storytelling is so cohesive and enjoyable and your vernacular is *chefs kiss* makes you so engaging and welcoming to audiences while still reporting to such a professional caliber. (Makes sense with ur journalism background but I thought I’d let you know in case no one has patted you on the back today)
thank you so much Sydney! feels good to be ~seen~
The way you speak about the artists as such a fan but also are able to have a level headed approach is amazing. The way you can deep dive into all the references and talk about Ariana and the songs and the albums and her journey is just breathtaking. Im actually just overwhelmed with how well you can talk about these albums. There’s nothing I love more than someone who can truly understand the intricacies within music and you do it so well. Thank you
Ok now, can we just comment on how amazing Zack looks in this video? Hair and eyebrows and face are serving today.
Thank you!!
Was waiting for somebody to comment on that
What a day to watch. I just googled my ‘Saturn’s return’ and it’s tomorrow 😅
OMGGG buckle up girl this might be your new bible
I’m amazed by how detailed and in-depth your album analysis are. Besides that, I must agree, this is her best peace of art so far ✨
thank you for noticing Roberta!!
I listened to the album last night for the first time and was kind of blown away by the album on the whole, at least sonically. I might be biased since 1) I’m really digging the theme because Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is one of my favorite films (as a theatre kid myself, I’m living for this concept), and 2) I was a young teen in the mid-late 90’s so all the references you made to other artists of that time make perfect sense and might be partly why I found myself vibing and falling in love so fast and hard upon first listen. Sonically it’s ethereal, emotional, and energetic. I’m sure upon further listening I’ll find more nuance in the record but as of right now it’s my favorite album she’s released so far.
I really appreciate all the points you made and will definitely be considering them as I listen again.
yess I'm so excited to hear what you think
Last 4 songs completely sent me 🙃😭
The interlude into eternal sunshine made me CRYYYYYYYY. really enjoyed this album analysis!!
it's gorgeous!!
ZACH THIS IS YOU AT YOUR BEST
thank you legend!!
This album made me so emotional ❤ I’ve never bene an Ari fan but I am now!
welcome!!
I want to like this video over 1,000 times. The structure and detail, you’re so thorough. I cannot stress enough how much I loved/appreciated this. ❤️
Thank you so much for tuning in!
this album is really special to me and one of her best albums to date FOR SURE, here’s my top 3:
1. we can’t be friends (wait for your love)
2. true story
3. eternal sunshine
The effort you put on the b-roll didn't go unnoticed❤️ good job on this one!
THANK YOU I wanted to make sure my editing was on point after a few flops these past videos ljsdfnjldsnl
I'm SO glad you made a video on Eternal Sunshine, I was literally praying to the Gods because I wanted to hear your thoughts on the record 🥹
glad to give it to you!!
i believe ariana has mentioned that she intends to make "many more" music videos for the album so i'm really hoping eternal sunshine eventually becomes a visual album by the end of its era! truly appreciate the objective and well-researched review. 💚
ooooh I really hope for more videos too!! thanks for watching
i love imagine and imperfect for you. they’re beautiful songs. gorgeous lyrics and production
Curious what you think about “we can’t be friends” being about the general public/critics/ even her fans?
The “papers and pens” line and her not wanting to answer the question who the song is about in the Zac Sang interview sold it for me.
Honestly, it made me respect her even more considering all the parasocial pop star relationships. Also feels very self aware “I’ll wait for your love”
I don't really put a lot of stock into that opinion bc I think the lyrics quite clearly describe a public breakup, and the video depicts pretty much the whole conceit of the album mediated through the lyrics of this song. there's a BTS video she just uploaded where she talks about what the song actually means, and it's not about the media lmao
I thought being played like Atari might be a reference to page 6 via page 6 Atari magazine. In this song tho the papers and pens maybe represent fixed ideas or ones influenced or altered by media or smear. Maybe getting back to the truth after being brainwashed. It is a bit like honeymoon avenue. The live from london last year is one of her best performances.
Queen Gertrude in the background ❤️🫶🏻
Its all ive been listening to non-stop
So glad you dove into this!
Love her
Very heartfelt endeavor ❤
truly!!
zach, i LOVE your analysis! was really waiting for this one.
i've missed ari in the popscape, and i'm really appreciating her artistic growth and contributions on this new record :)
I know this video is about Ari (who I love with my whole heart), I couldn't help but draw parallels between this album and Taylor's discography (mainly Midnights). Personally, this is impressive to me, because it means Ari has reached a level of songwriting where she is able to articulate her feelings and vulnerability in a way that touches you deep in your soul. And no, I don't care that she doesn't throw around big words for the sake of it, it's not about the words, but what you do with them. This album touched me in a way that her previous work didn't as much and I'm "eternally🤭" grateful for that ❤☀
I was literally searching for a swiftologist video on eternal sunshine yesterday, and when i couldn’t find one, i hoped it would come out soon. thank you for sharing your thoughts! couldn’t agree more on soooo many points you made. it’s nice to see someone who has done their research and dives deep into the source material’s meaning, while interpreting it in such a relatable way… AND pushing the discussion in new directions that many media sources and reactors completely miss… this is why i love your videos. ❤
thanks so much for watching!! this is why I really wanted to do a review and not a reaction, as soon as I heard it I knew it would 1. be misunderstood and 2. deserved a craft analysis beyond the gossip
VERy much looking forward
I wasn't sure if you were going to make a video about this album but I'M SEATED!!!
Top 3
1. imperfect for you
2. i wish i hated you
3. bye
Really enjoyed your breakdown, eternal sunshine is definitely in my top 3 Ariana albums
to this day, I still cry when I watch the WCBF music video. It's so heartbreaking and beautiful.
Can’t wait to see what you think!!!
I’ve been obsessed w this album so I RAN when I saw this was uploaded omg
well I'm glad !!
Eternal sunshine is one of my favorite movies mostly because I’m a Long Island native so when she centered the theme of this album around the movie I was more emotional than I should’ve been, that music video was a perfect tribute to the movie
ahhhhh to be from Long Island and an eternal sunshine enjoyer! waiting patiently for a great movie about singapore I can cling on to.....
@@theswiftologist you know I only appreciate Long Island now because I’ve lived in Nashville for 5 years but I will say watching the movie now makes me a little homesick and I appreciate it a little more lol I didn’t understand why everyone back home liked it so much until I saw it and I went “wait is he talking about Montauk as in like an hour away???” Now I’m going to re watch it and feel all new feelings
The writing in this is so good. Great insight!
Thanks so much!
Wow!! Amazing analysis of the new Ariana album! I’m a fan. ❤
thanks
I will consistently stay up until 1 am each Sunday even though I have school on Mondays for the Swiftologist
well yes as you should
me rn
This album is one of her Best but dangerous women exists. I loved the way she released the album I liked not having a second single
this was such a pleasant watch because i've seen ariana stans love the album & the non-fans just ok it or say it was bad. everything you said had me nodding along like SOMEONE GETS IT!
my top 3 are eternal sunshine, i wish i hated you, & supernatural
thanks for watching diva always love to see you in the comments!! taste in your top 3
No one's saying its bad except for the chart obsessed swifties on twitter who hate ariana because she is a competition to Taylor, every other fandom member I've seen are adoring this record.
@@hassanmansour9857 we must be on different sides of the internet - glad yours is loving ari but mine is mostly not lol. i actually had someone tell me they don't take my opinions on music seriously anymore bc i love this album
I first watched the video and then listened to the album, great experience tbh. Well structured analysis, Zach!
I saw someone said We can’t be friends is written from Ariana to the media/public and now I can’t unsee it. It completely changes me whole meaning of the song
I had the same thought- it’s like she talking to the public - “how you paint me” I’m still here hanging. “Wait until you like me again” - she’s had a revolving door of love and hate from the public towards her for years. Me and my truth we sit in silence- you got me misunderstood.
The relationship btwn a celebrity and the public is weird and not real bc we don’t know them. But we’d all like to just pretend…
The media but even more so her fans
We need a Melodrama Deep Dive sometime, please and thank you!
oh its coming
The way i was waiting for the live to end so I can watch this video
The eternal sunshine - supernatural - true story section of this the album is my fav ~ loved the review! ❤
i feel like going from eternal sunshine to supernatural kind of dulled down supernatural imo. i mean going from eternal sunshine with debatably the catchiest chorus of the album and such a golden amazing beautiful bridge to supernatural made supernatural doomed to be frowned upon. i also think supernatural ft troye is better than the original. true story though... dont even get me started i could write a whole essay on why true story is one of my favs from ari of all time
zach is just wanted to thank you sm for sharing your opinions and creating content. i’ve been really sick lately and evolution of a snake has helped me through every day so muchhhh!(i somehow listened to every episode in 2 weeks which may be slightly concerning loll) you just have such a radiant personality and are SO ARTICULATE with your thoughts and whatnot! i hope you have an amazing day💕💕💕
thank you for such a lovely comment!!
I WAS READY FOR THE GRANDEOLOGIST!!! NOW THIS IS GIVING ARIANY AND ARIANKA!!!!
My favorites are bye, don’t wanna break up again, eternal sunshine, I wish I hated you and we can’t be friends. I love the album overall!!
I think while the relationship bit reflected in the album was a great analysis, I think after “true story” till “we can’t be friends” we have a double or multiple meaning to the songs, all which correlate to “yes, and?” So even if sonicly the song is a standout in the sense of it being very different, that the theme is similar: “this is a true story about all the lies you fantasize about you and I” criticizing how people paint her and make their own stories in their minds of who she is, “the boy is mine” is taking is further, getting into that role that people and the media created in “true story”, then “yes, and?” It’s her way of answering back, while “we can’t be friends” can also be used as a vulnerable side to it “me and my truth we sit in silence” and “you cling to your papers and pens, wait until you like me again”, finally ending in the bridge where she sings “I don’t like how you paint me” and “not what you made me”, sharing her dislike of the situation, but realizing there’s no use in looking for their validation anymore, that’s at the end of the day she’ll have herself and that’s all she needs, and she feels seen in the “night”, when the lights from the camera are away, with the people she cares about.
ELITE top three!!
So excited!!!!!
amazing vid, as always!! ur so incredibly well spoken and it's always a pleasure to hear ur thoughts. :)
as a longtime ari fan, the refined maturity of the work def stood out to me too.
(ALSO HER ENUNCIATION??? she's finally saying shit with her chesttt.)
but this album was glittery melancholy. shimmeringly beautiful and easily her magnum opus.
the enunciation is not getting enough credit!! thank you for watching
Yes yes and YES.
From the first moments I listened to the album, I could not wait to hear your take! Such a pleasantly substantive surprise from Ariana
great video and analysis as ALWAYS!! u never fail to deliver 😝 its so hard to pick just 3 of my favourites but it has to be dont wanna break up again, supernatural and that boy is mine
omfg the *RENAISSANCE* film poster is so real of you Zach 🫶
I've been listening to this album on repeat since it came out. Although I wish some of the notes were a little more belty instead of this airy tone, I understand why she did it. Her performance overall is sooo good.
I think the lyrics "at least i look this good" is because we cant be friends is not meant to be for her ex, but to her fans and the media, for putting her name in the trash and now, that she is back with a movie and a record, will just pretend they never hurt her or talk shit about her. So the line is a hint about the whole body shamming she suffered.
My faves are imperfect for you, eternal sunshine and wait for your love
Aianators didn't talk shit about her. It was the swifties surely trying to boost Taylor using dirty tactics. It really undermines her acomplishments when you realize how manufactured they are. She probably uses bots to boost her numbers and CIA money to buy her tckets and advertise on CNN. So fake. A billion $? What a joke. They probably spent 10 billion promoting her and the tour has been a huge loss. Maybe there is a whole swifty commune where the cult were busy making these nasty aricles and videos to try and tear down the competition. How else could they pass off Taylor Swift as the biggest star in history? 😆 Let's fly far, far away and never come back. The Swifites needs to be held to account. Lets not forget that there was already an attack on one of Ariana's concerts so this is very serious.
help, it took me a minute to realize there was a dog chillin in the background
what a profound analysis btw, i'm hooked!
I knew as soon as I played the intro to this album that I was gonna love it. My fav song is Eternal Sunshine.
excellent taste!!
True story sounds like my childhood. I’m 33 so checks out with that max Martin production.
I do wish her lyrics were better not gonna lie.
Usually watch on TikTok but huge Ariana fan so had to come to RUclips. Great video!
My top 3 are
1. Eternal sunshine
2. We can’t be friends
3. Don’t wanna break up again
When I first heard "yes and" I was not impressed but it grew on me after a few listens. So I gave the album a couple of listens to see if it would grow on me too and it did. I'm not sure if it's her best album but it has a certain subtle beauty and has been living rent free in my head for days 🎧
let it keep growing on you :)
REAL!!! I love ES ❤
my top 3:
- the boy is mine
- eternal sunshine
- wait for your love
Ntm on yes and, ma 😭🤣 loved this analysis saur muchh
Once you hear the theory that We Can't Be Friends is about the press and NOT a lover, everything makes so much more sense.
She feels she cannot speak up or defend herself because the press will smear her anyways. The less she talks about it, the sooner the story (of her divorce and possible infidelity) dies, as referenced by the lyrics "Just wanna let this story die".
She even sings "We can't be friends, but I'd like to just pretend. You cling to your papers and pens. Wait until you like me again." This verse was hard to understand as a song in reference to a lover. What would "cling to your papers and pens" even mean? It's about the fact that she'd like to imagine she is friends with her fans and the public at large, but in reality, she can never be that.
Then she sings "Know that you made me. I don't like how you paint me, yet I'm still here hanging". Ariana knows that she would not be where she is today without her fans and media coverage. They made her the popstar that she is. At the same time, many scandals have come out over the course of her career, and she doesn't like how the press, according to her perspective, twist the narrative and misunderstand her.
"Wait for your love" simply refers to the media cycle. She's been doing this for a decade. She always gets back up after bad press. She knows if she lies low, eventually the public with re-embrace her. She will return to our good graces. And she was right! With the release of Wicked, people to seem to be warming up to Ariana, and I do believe this album was her Magnum Opus. No one can deny her talent.
YES, I've been waiting to hear your thoughts on the album! My top 3 are bye, supernatural, and the boy is mine.
I was waiting for this opinion
yes, and? is actually perfect on the album in terms of sequencing. we can’t be friends (wait for your love) refers to her relationship with the media and the general public, yes, and? sets it up very well.
Mannnnn I’ve been waiting for you to talk about this album. THANK YOU FOR NEVER MISSING ❤️❤️❤️❤️
tysm for watching!!
I'm so excited to hear your thoughts on this!
I heard WCBF(wfyl) is a letter to the media & public and I looove that interpretation
YES I have been waiting for your take 🥰
Swiftologist never misses
I was waaaaiting for this! 🎉
and here it issssss
Your opinions about yes, and? are exactly mine! I was terrified for the album and I wouldn't have listened to the album at all if I was not interested in Ariana's work. I was positively surprised and relieved that the album was nothing like yes, and? lol
it was a great surprise!!
You are so good at what you do! I really enjoy listening to you. Great job 🫶
Thank you so much!
My top 3, without a doubt:
Eternal Sunshine
I don’t wanna break up again
Supernatural
Going to listen to Ari ... I wasn't going to. Appreciate this!
check it out, you won't regret!!
You are truly a breath of fresh air when it comes to your analyses
thank you so much!
The best way to make everyone forget about a scandal, enlist Max Martin and make bangers. Also the best way to make art is when you feel that you have nothing to lose. This is truly her best work and album of the year in my opinion (but I’m also okay with Beyoncé winning)
You served, good argumentation far away from the obvious options about Ariana’s personal. Very professional, I love it 👌
thanks diva
Love this album so much