UNITED STATES—World famous singer-songwriter Ariana Grande is used to being in the spotlight. Ever since her “Sweetener” album was released in August accompanied by her number one hit single “thank u, next,” she has received an outpouring of attention and support from fans.
At the Billboard Awards, the 25 year-old was voted women of the year. Even though her career is flourishing, the singer stated during her acceptance speech that “This has been one of the best years of my career and the worst of my life.” Grande was given the award due to her immense strength in dealing with with the death of her ex-boyfriend Mac Miller, her recent split from her fiancée Pete Davidson, and the tragic 2017 bombing that took place at her concert in Manchester, England on May 22.
The suicide bombing ended up killing 22 people and left 59 others injured. The event heavily impacted the singer, her fans, and Manchester and she took it upon herself to host a benefit concert called “One Love Manchester,” where she hosted many artists including Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry, and Niall Horan. The concert raised over $3 million for the victims of the attack.
One year later, Ariana still feels the aftermath of the attack. Fans were initially shocked to see that she did not have Manchester on her tour dates for her upcoming “Sweetener” tour. She posted on social media that Manchester was not on the initial tour list because they are planning a special show. In a 24-hour Instagram story, the singer stated that “We need a bit more time getting things together before we can announce that date but we are of course coming and we love you.”
Her decision to do so was greeted with support and excitement from her fans on social media. The set date of her concert is uncertain, but she will be touring close by in the UK in mid-September 2019.
