"Tears" by Sabrina Carpenter

"Tears" by Sabrina Carpenter follows a fairly standard pop song structure. It's primarily in verse-pre-chorus-chorus form, repeating this structure multiple times with a bridge section towards the end. The tempo is relatively moderate, hovering around 120-125 bpm. The key is likely G major (or a closely related key like E minor, given the prevalence of minor chords in the melody), giving it a somewhat hopeful yet melancholic feel. The energy builds gradually throughout the song, starting relatively subdued in the verses and culminating in a more powerful chorus. The melody is fairly straightforward and memorable, utilizing stepwise motion and simple intervals, making it easily singable. The harmony is mostly diatonic, using common chords within the key, though there are moments of chromaticism for emotional emphasis. The rhythm is generally consistent, driven by a steady four-on-the-floor beat, with subtle syncopation added in the verses and pre-choruses to create rhythmic interest.
Lyrically, "Tears" explores the aftermath of a breakup. Sabrina Carpenter sings about the bittersweet experience of letting go and moving on, acknowledging the pain while simultaneously highlighting a sense of liberation and self-discovery. There's a focus on the physical manifestation of emotional pain – the tears themselves – as a symbol of both sorrow and eventual healing. The overall mood is one of pensive reflection, tinged with a growing sense of empowerment and resilience. While there's sadness present, it’s not overwhelmingly bleak, instead suggesting a journey towards acceptance and self-love.
Musically, "Tears" aligns with several genres: Pop is the most obvious category, but it also incorporates elements of contemporary pop balladry, with its emotionally driven melody and measured tempo. There are subtle hints of synth-pop in the production, and the overall arrangement is clean and polished, typical of modern pop productions.
Sabrina Carpenter is an American actress and singer-songwriter from Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania. She began her career in acting, gaining recognition for her roles in Disney Channel shows. Her musical journey commenced alongside her acting career, releasing several albums and EPs that have showcased her vocal talent and songwriting skills. Influences on her music likely span a range of contemporary pop artists, reflecting the diverse sounds present in her discography. While her earlier music may have leaned more toward teen pop, her recent work showcases a maturation of her sound, moving towards a more sophisticated and emotionally resonant style.
Artists with a similar musical style and target audience to Sabrina Carpenter include Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift (particularly her earlier work), Lorde, Alessia Cara, and Dua Lipa. These artists all share a knack for crafting emotionally resonant pop songs with relatable lyrics and polished production.