At just 25, Sabrina Carpenter is basking in a career milestone that many artists can only dream of: a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. But despite the excitement around this prestigious recognition, Carpenter is quick to remind us that she’s no stranger to the music scene. Far from a newcomer, the talented singer-songwriter has already released five albums, with a sixth on the way.
Her breakout single “Espresso” arrived in April 2024, propelling her to a new level of fame and securing her a spot among the year’s most anticipated Grammy nominees. It’s a track that captured the attention of fans and critics alike, blending catchy pop melodies with a fresh, empowering vibe that resonated with listeners across the globe. But, as Carpenter herself humbly acknowledges, the road to this recognition has been paved with years of steady, determined progress.
“I’ve always been true to myself and believed in my work since I was young,” she tells People in a candid email interview. “I’ve realized that it’s always been about the small baby steps that you take over time to get you to this point.” With ten years of hard work under her belt, Carpenter is embracing the moment and reflecting on how far she’s come.
While being nominated for Best New Artist might seem unusual for someone with a decade of experience, Carpenter isn’t fazed. “I’ve played the long game,” she explains, crediting her growth and success to consistent effort, not a quick rise to stardom. Her album Short n’ Sweet dropped in August 2024, marking yet another chapter in her blossoming career. The album, along with her chart-topping hit “Espresso,” solidified her position in the spotlight, but it’s the journey itself that has shaped her most.
Carpenter’s Grammy nod isn’t just for Best New Artist. The pop sensation has also earned nominations for Album of the Year, Record of the Year, Song of the Year, Best Pop Vocal Album, and Best Pop Solo Performance—honors that signal her growing influence within the music industry. When asked about the nominations, Carpenter can’t hide her excitement. “It’s such an honor,” she says, reflecting on a goal she’s held since childhood. “I’ve always dreamed of this.”
In addition to the Grammy excitement, 2024 has been a year of intense touring for the rising star. Carpenter recently wrapped up the North American leg of her Short n’ Sweet tour, a major milestone in her career. The tour, which featured a special “Sweet Spot” pop-up experience by T-Mobile, allowed fans a chance to win tickets and participate in unique concert experiences. For Carpenter, these collaborations were the perfect fit for her brand and music. “It’s great to work with a brand that values the same things I do and finds ways to make my concerts more accessible and exciting for my fans,” she says, emphasizing the importance of fan engagement.
Performing alongside artists like Taylor Swift has been another unforgettable experience. Carpenter made waves on Swift’s Eras Tour, performing to thousands of screaming fans in Buenos Aires in November 2023. The opportunity to connect with new audiences has been an undeniable highlight, but it’s her own fans who continue to steal the show. “Connecting with my fans each night” was the standout moment of the tour for Carpenter. She describes how much fun she had seeing the creative outfits and hilarious signs fans held up during the shows.
As the first leg of her arena tour wrapped up in November, Carpenter is gearing up for a European leg starting in March 2025. The anticipation is palpable as she looks forward to revisiting cities she hasn’t been to in years. “I can’t wait to see all of my fans in Europe,” she says with palpable excitement. “There are a couple of cities I haven’t been to in a really long time, so I’m excited to see which crowd is the loudest.”
As 2025 approaches, Carpenter is still processing the whirlwind year she’s had. “I don’t think I have fully reflected yet,” she admits. “I’m also trying to be present in the moment.” That moment is a good one, as her songs continue to resonate with fans around the world. “I’m just happy to see my songs connect with so many people from all walks of life,” Carpenter reflects. “That’s why I love to write songs.”
With a decade of experience, multiple Grammy nominations, and a tour that brought her closer to her fans, Sabrina Carpenter’s career is only just beginning to reach its peak. What began with small steps is now a full sprint toward superstardom.
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