Grammy-nominated pop artist Ariana Grande makes her highly-anticipated return with her exuberant, uplifting single, “No Tears Left to Cry.”

“Comin’ out, even when it’s rainin’ down / Can’t stop now, can’t stop, so shut your mouth.” #Hiatus over – Ariana Grande is back! The last full album of new material we heard from the 24-year old prodigious pop singer was 2016’s Grammy-nominated Dangerous Woman.  Notably, her newest single, “No Tears Left to Cry” marks her first since the Manchester terror attack.  Has a void been filled with the return of AG? You bet!

“No Tears Left to Cry” begins moderately slowly.  Initially, it seems as if Ariana Grande is going to unleash the balladry on the intro. Ultimately, that’s not the case.  Following the dramatic, lush, and smoothly sung intro (the eventual chorus btw), the danceable groove makes its entry onto “No Tears Left to Cry.” Grande shows exuberance, singing playfully in her lower register on the verses.  She gradually ascends, hitting her stride – better her commanding upper register – on the chorus.  The chorus is catchy, though what truly stands out about it is how uplifting it is.

“Right now, I’m in a state of mind

I wanna be in, like, all the time

Ain’t got no tears left to cry

So, I’m pickin’ it up, pickin’ it up

I’m lovin’, I’m livin’, I’m pickin’ it up

Oh, I just want you to come with me

We on another mentality

Ain’t got no tears left to cry

So, I’m pickin’ it up, pickin’ it up

I’m lovin’, I’m livin’, I’m pickin’ it up.”

Final Thoughts

The premise of “No Tears Left to Cry” is simple and effective.  Ariana Grande definitely makes a worthwhile comeback, particularly given the message of the single.  There’s nothing game changing here and those looking for another “Problem” or “Dangerous Woman” may be a bit disappointed.  Still, Ari is still Ari, and she’s totally been missed.

Ariana Grande • No Tears Left to Cry– Single • Republic • Release: 4.20.18

Photo Credits: Republic