"Manchild" by Sabrina Carpenter

"Manchild" by Sabrina Carpenter boasts a fairly standard pop song structure. The song is primarily in verse-chorus form, with a pre-chorus leading into each chorus. The BPM sits comfortably in the mid-tempo range, around 100-110, giving it a relaxed yet driving feel. The key is likely G major or a closely related key, judging by the vocal melody and instrumentation. The overall energy is moderately upbeat, transitioning from a slightly melancholic verse to a more anthemic chorus. The melody is fairly straightforward and easy to follow, with a catchy hook in the chorus. Harmonically, the song utilizes common pop progressions, with a focus on major chords to create a bright sound, though minor chords are subtly incorporated to create emotional depth in the verses. Rhythmically, the song features a steady, four-on-the-floor beat with syncopated elements in the percussion and vocal delivery, adding interest without disrupting the groove.
Lyrically, "Manchild" explores the complexities of a relationship with an emotionally immature partner. The singer describes a frustrating dynamic where her partner displays childish behavior, avoiding responsibility and displaying a lack of emotional maturity. The theme is the disappointment and exasperation felt when dealing with someone who is incapable of handling adult relationships. The mood is a blend of frustration, sadness, and perhaps a touch of resignation; there's a palpable sense of weariness mixed with a hint of defiance. The song captures the conflict between wanting to nurture someone and accepting that they might not be ready for a serious relationship.
Genre-wise, "Manchild" fits comfortably within the realms of contemporary pop, pop-rock and even hints of electro-pop thanks to the production choices. Its straightforward songwriting and instrumentation keeps it grounded in pop, while the driving beat and some of the instrumentation bring hints of rock sensibilities. The polished production and electronic elements add to the electro-pop influences.
Sabrina Carpenter is an American singer, songwriter, and actress from Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. She began her career in acting, gaining recognition for her roles in Disney Channel shows. She later transitioned into music, releasing her debut EP in 2014. Her musical style has evolved over the years, starting with more teen-pop and gradually incorporating elements of adult contemporary pop and alternative pop. Her influences are diverse and include artists spanning several genres; it's likely she draws inspiration from a range of pop icons, as her sound is very much contemporary pop.
Artists with similar musical styles to Sabrina Carpenter include Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, Lorde, Alessia Cara, and Dua Lipa. These artists all create catchy, contemporary pop music with strong vocal performances and relatable lyrics that often explore themes of relationships and personal growth.