For many, a Saturday morning isn’t complete without a challenging crossword puzzle. But even the most seasoned solvers can find themselves stumped. Recently, a clue from the Novel York Times puzzle – “List in Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next”” – sparked a flurry of online searches. The answer, as many discovered, is ‘EXES.’ But the story behind the song and the cultural moment it captured, is a bit more complex than a six-letter word.
Ariana Grande’s “thank u, next” wasn’t just a hit song; it was a cultural reset. Released in November 2018, following a tumultuous period in the singer’s personal life, the track quickly became an anthem of self-love and moving on. The song directly references Grande’s past relationships with Pete Davidson, Mac Miller (who had tragically passed away just weeks before the song’s release), Big Sean, and Ricky Alvarez. The lyrical content, coupled with a minimalist black-and-white music video recreating scenes from the teen classic Mean Girls, resonated deeply with a generation navigating heartbreak and self-discovery.
The brilliance of “thank u, next” lay in its subversion of the typical breakup song trope. Instead of dwelling on bitterness or regret, Grande expressed gratitude for the lessons learned from each relationship. The song’s message – acknowledging past pain while embracing future growth – struck a chord with listeners worldwide. It quickly topped charts globally, becoming Grande’s first number-one single in the United States. The song’s success also cemented Grande’s position as a leading voice in pop music, demonstrating her ability to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level.
The Impact of a Simple List
The song’s impact extended beyond the music charts. “thank u, next” sparked countless conversations about relationships, healing, and the importance of self-respect. Social media platforms were flooded with posts from fans sharing their own experiences and interpretations of the song’s message. The song’s title itself became a popular phrase, used to express gratitude for past experiences, even those that were painful. The song’s influence can still be seen today in the way artists approach themes of heartbreak and self-empowerment.
The inclusion of the names of her former partners – Davidson, Miller, Sean, and Alvarez – was initially met with some scrutiny. Some questioned whether it was appropriate to publicly name and discuss past relationships in such a direct manner. Still, Grande defended her artistic choices, emphasizing that the song was about acknowledging her personal growth and moving forward. She explained in an interview with Billboard that the song was a way for her to “thank” these individuals for their contributions to her life, even if the relationships hadn’t ended as she had hoped. Billboard
Beyond the Lyrics: The Music Video’s Influence
The accompanying music video further amplified the song’s message and cultural impact. Paying homage to iconic early 2000s teen comedies like Mean Girls, Bring It On, 13 Going on 30, and Legally Blonde, the video featured Grande and a cast of friends recreating memorable scenes from these films. The video’s nostalgic aesthetic and playful tone perfectly complemented the song’s message of self-discovery and empowerment. It became a viral sensation, inspiring countless recreations and parodies online.
The video’s casting also generated buzz. Grande invited several of the original stars from the films she referenced to appear in the video, including Jonathan Bennett (Aaron Samuels from Mean Girls) and Kristin Chenoweth (Madison McCarthy from Bring It On). This intergenerational collaboration further solidified the song’s appeal and demonstrated Grande’s appreciation for pop culture history.
The Crossword Connection and Lasting Legacy
So, how did this cultural phenomenon complete up as a clue in the New York Times crossword? It speaks to the song’s enduring presence in the public consciousness. The clue, “List in Ariana Grande’s “Thank U, Next”,” requires solvers to recall not just the song’s title, but also the core concept – the list of former partners. It’s a clever nod to the song’s lyrical content and its impact on popular culture. The New York Times crossword, known for its challenging clues and cultural references, often incorporates contemporary music and trends, making this inclusion a natural fit. The New York Times Crossword
“thank u, next” continues to be a defining moment in Ariana Grande’s career and a touchstone for a generation grappling with love, loss, and self-acceptance. The song’s message of gratitude and empowerment remains as relevant today as it was in 2018. As Grande continues to evolve as an artist and a person, “thank u, next” will undoubtedly be remembered as a pivotal moment in her journey and a testament to the power of vulnerability and self-love.
Looking ahead, Grande is currently focused on her acting career, with a leading role in the upcoming film adaptation of the musical Wicked. The first part of the film is scheduled for release in November 2024, and anticipation is already building among fans. This new chapter in her career promises to further showcase her talent and versatility, solidifying her status as a multi-faceted entertainer.
Did this explanation help you solve the puzzle? Share your thoughts and experiences with the “thank u, next” song and its cultural impact in the comments below. And don’t forget to share this article with your fellow crossword enthusiasts!
