Sabrina Carpenter, the 25-year-old pop sensation, has recently expressed reservations about her hit song “Espresso,” despite its massive success. Featured on her acclaimed album Short n’ Sweet, the track has garnered over 1.9 billion streams on Spotify and secured the #2 spot on IFPI’s list of the world’s best-selling singles in 2024.
However, Carpenter admits that performing “Espresso” live presents significant challenges, leading her to question her decision to write the song.
In a candid interview, Carpenter revealed that the song’s intricate composition demands exceptional breath control and precise note execution, making live performances particularly strenuous. She reflected on her studio experience, stating, “When I was in the studio, I was like, ‘this is fun, love this song.’ Then once I got on stage, I was like, ‘this is kind of hard; why did I write this song?'” This sentiment highlights the often-overlooked complexities artists face when translating studio recordings to live performances.
Despite these challenges, Carpenter’s live renditions of “Espresso” have been met with widespread acclaim. Notably, her performance at the 2025 Grammy Awards showcased her resilience and adaptability. The act featured intentional comedic elements, including planned malfunctions such as missed spotlights and interactions with dancers, adding a unique flair to the presentation.
This creative approach not only entertained the audience but also demonstrated Carpenter’s ability to turn performance difficulties into engaging spectacles.
Carpenter’s dedication to her craft is further evidenced by her accolades at the 2025 Grammy Awards, where she secured wins for Best Pop Solo Performance and Best Pop Vocal Album.
These honors underscore her talent and the positive reception of her work within the music industry.
In addition to her Grammy success, “Espresso” has achieved significant commercial milestones. The track’s impressive streaming numbers and its high ranking on IFPI’s list of best-selling singles highlight its global appeal and the strong connection it has forged with listeners worldwide.
Carpenter’s reflections on “Espresso” offer valuable insights into the complexities of artistic creation and performance. Her experience underscores the importance of considering the practical aspects of live renditions during the songwriting process. As she continues to evolve as an artist, these lessons are likely to influence her future projects, potentially leading to compositions that balance studio innovation with live performance feasibility.
In conclusion, while “Espresso” stands as a testament to Sabrina Carpenter’s songwriting prowess and commercial success, it also serves as a reminder of the challenges artists face in bringing their creations to life on stage. Carpenter’s openness about her experiences provides fans and fellow musicians with a deeper understanding of the artistic journey, highlighting the dedication and resilience required to excel in the dynamic world of music.
