Pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter has finally broken her silence on the furore surrounding one of the most talked-about lyrics of the year, offering a witty and defiant response to the so-called 'pearl-clutching' critics of her global smash, 'Espresso'.
In an exclusive and remarkably candid interview with The Times, the 25-year-old singer addressed the line that sent the internet into a meltdown: "I'm working late, 'cause I'm a singer / He looks at me, I'm on the table, legs in the air, like I just don't care."
Rather than apologise, Carpenter reframed the conversation, suggesting the uproar says more about the listener than it does about her. She dismissed the criticism as an overreaction from those who were perhaps looking for something to be scandalised by.
A Masterclass in Lyricism
Carpenter revealed that the creation of 'Espresso' was a joyful and collaborative process with producer Julian Bunetta. She explained that the song's lyrics were intended to be playful, confident, and a touch humorous—a celebration of female empowerment and owning one's sexuality without shame.
The American singer argued that the track's massive success, including its climb to No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart, is a testament to its fun and infectious energy, which resonated far more with the public than any manufactured controversy could.
Beyond the Controversy
The interview delved deeper than just one lyric, painting a picture of an artist fully in control of her craft and unafraid to push boundaries. Carpenter spoke about the intense scrutiny that comes with modern fame and the importance of developing a thick skin against online negativity.
She positioned herself as a songwriter who enjoys playing with words and crafting memorable, conversation-starting moments—a skill that has undoubtedly cemented her status as one of pop's most exciting current acts.
By confronting the backlash head-on with charm and intelligence, Sabrina Carpenter hasn't just quieted the critics; she's proven that a clever turn of phrase is sometimes powerful enough to stop the world in its tracks.
