The science behind Ariana Grande’s vocal metamorphosis

Grande performs during the 2024 Met Gala on May 6, 2024, in New York City. Kevin Mazur/MG24 via Getty Images 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.) Grande’s fans were perplexed by the singer’s vocal shift during a podcast interview. 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...