The much-anticipated return of Ariana Grande is finally upon us. “yes, and?” Is a playful pop song that hears Ariana returning to the dance-pop soundscape with a “Vogue” sample lifting the production into every gay club where it will be on rotation for the entire year. 

There are a few bold production decisions that both Ariana and Max Martin made with this song which will see it being one that will grow on you with every listen. Opening with a 50 second instrumental that hears some harmonising from Ariana’s whistle tone, it’s a lengthy beginning which has you a little bit off-put. Once she steers into the song then it builds momentum and will have you dancing and voguing through the upbeat melodies. 

Ariana’s vocal pronunciation has never been clear, but this song kind-of takes the cake in the category of pondering what she’s saying. So much so, that I didn’t realise how honest the song was until I read the lyrics. Penned as a direct response to the criticism she has been receiving, she takes control of her narrative and tells it as it is. “Don’t comment on my body, do not reply. Your business is yours and mine is mine. Why do you care so much whose dick I ride?” she proclaims. 

“yes, and?” will be a slow burn for a lot of listeners. It might not be added to your playlists immediately, but expect the hook to slowly get stuck in your head and you’ll find yourself returning for another listen. With the release of her seventh studio album and her feature film debut in Wicked down the line, 2024 is truly the year of Ariana Grande, and she’s only just getting started.