“Have you ever tried this one?” is one of Sabrina Carpenter’s most famous song lyrics. It is viral on Spotify, TikTok, and most importantly, in the minds of the American people. Such simple words are backed by staged sexual poses and entrance all people under the age of 30.
This begs the question: Is Sabrina Carpenter truly a lyrical genius? Or does American culture praise her for a pretty girl reputation and end up convincing themselves that her music is revolutionary?
Each generation is given a set of It-girls — attractive, influential young women who become cultural trendsetters. Teenagers from the 2000s had Brittney Spears, Gwen Stefani, and the Kardashian sisters. Today we have Sabrina Carpenter, Sydney Sweeney, and Alix Earl. These women capitalize on status by having a desirable figure. They are the stars of their field by giving young girls a beauty standard to strive for — platinum blonde, curves, and cheekbones to die for.
A celebrity’s public image influences their reputation and business. Gaining followers, creating buzz, and receiving any sort of publicity will make money. They have to be careful when posting to Instagram, TikTok, and trying to influence new trends.
Sabrina Carpenter’s song “Tears” started trending on TikTok in October. The trend uses provocative language to give users a chance to thirst trap. The most popular video with this sound has 2.8 million views.
Carpenter is most likely making bank from people using her song, but they aren’t using it because it is truly lyrical. Millions of people are being exposed to her music because it is tied to sexually provocative actions.
Most of Carpenter’s songs dealing with physical relationships have over 72.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify.. Small indie artist Jess Benko writes about imperfection, heartbreak, and guilt, yet has 0.55% as many monthly Spotify listeners. Could it be because Sabrina Carpenter dances and flirts with her audience at concerts and videos?
Self-sexualization is a business plan. If the best way to make money is to have a slight talent and a pretty body, then good for those who can do it. But as a collective society, when will we start valuing quality over quick trends? When does empowerment of our bodies become glorifying unrealistic standards? If we continue to value the newest hot topic, the value of American culture will be buried under sexy poses.
It makes my day better when people bring me Chipotle.
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