The science behind Ariana Grande’s vocal metamorphosis

By Lydia Kruse, Purdue University

While promoting her role in the upcoming film adaptation of the Broadway hit “Wicked,” singer Ariana Grande made a podcast appearance that left many of her fans befuddled and concerned.

In the middle of the interview, the sound of her voice drastically changed, going from lower-pitched and slightly raspy to one that was much higher pitched, with a smooth, light texture to it.

Speculation ensued.

“THAT WAS SO SUDDEN HELP,” one netizen exclaimed. “It’s her alter ego Kitten programming,” quipped another fan. Others wondered whether Grande was getting stuck in the voice of Glinda, the character she plays in “Wicked,” who speaks with a softer intensity and higher pitch. (After Austin Butler played Elvis Presley in the 2022 musical “Elvis,” the young actor continued speaking like the King of Rock and Roll long after the film’s premiere.)

https://youtu.be/E9zQud-rl94?si=GQBtNnkC4R1bbiYA

Grande eventually responded to the confusion, explaining that she routinely and intentionally changes her “vocal placement” to preserve her vocal health.

For those unfamiliar with the science of voice production, Grande’s explanation may have prompted more – rather than less – confusion. But as a speech-language pathologist who specializes in voice disorders, I know how effective these techniques can be.

Singers and actors who routinely strain their vocal cords can damage them through what’s known as “phonotrauma,” or excessive and improper use of the voice.

The data shows that voice disorders can lead to loss of work for anyone, not just singers. But professional singers – whose livelihoods, like those of professional baseball pitchers, depend on a fully functional part of their body – are more likely to experience financial and emotional distress from a voice disorder.

Cords on a collision course

In order for you to speak or sing, your vocal cords – a delicate pair of thin, muscular strips shaped like a “v” in the throat – must come together and vibrate against one another other as air from the lungs is pushed through.

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