Did Ariana Grande co-write Blackpink’s Ice Cream featuring Selena Gomez?

In the ever-evolving world of pop music, collaborations between artists are not only common but often lead to some of the most memorable tracks. One such collaboration that took the music industry by storm was BLACKPINK’s “Ice Cream,” featuring Selena Gomez. Released on August 28, 2020, as part of BLACKPINK’s debut studio album, The Album, the song became an instant hit, marking significant milestones for both the artists and the industry. However, what many fans might not know is the involvement of another pop icon in the creation of this bubblegum pop sensation: Ariana Grande.

Ariana Grande’s Collaborative Spirit

Ariana Grande has long been known for her collaborative efforts, which have consistently produced chart-topping hits. From her debut album, Yours Truly, which included collaborations with industry heavyweights like Mac Miller, Big Sean, Mika, and Nathan Sykes of The Wanted, Grande has demonstrated a keen ability to blend her vocal talents with those of other artists. Her collaborations often extend beyond just performing, as she frequently takes part in the songwriting process, contributing to the lyrical and melodic elements that define her sound.

The Making of “Ice Cream”

Ahead of the release of “Ice Cream,” Grande took to Instagram to express her excitement and pride in the project. In a story, she posted a screenshot of the single’s cover art with the caption: “Proud of the squad, and so proud of this!!! so much love for this team and these ladies!!!” She tagged Selena Gomez, BLACKPINK, and the key collaborators behind the track, including Tommy Brown, Mr. Franks, and Victoria Monet. This social media post piqued the curiosity of fans and industry watchers alike.

As reported by Soompi and later confirmed by the Jakarta Post, Ariana Grande played a significant role in the creation of “Ice Cream.” Although she did not appear in the music video, her creative influence was integral to the track’s development. Grande’s collaboration on “Ice Cream” showcases her versatility and willingness to contribute to projects that push the boundaries of pop music.

The Success of “Ice Cream”

“Ice Cream” was met with immediate commercial success upon its release. It debuted at number 13 on the US Billboard Hot 100, making it the first single by a female Korean act to enter the chart’s top 20. The song’s infectious melody, playful lyrics, and vibrant music video quickly captivated audiences worldwide. Its success was further underscored by nominations for Best Collaboration at prestigious award shows like the People’s Choice Awards and the MTV Video Music Awards.

Selena Gomez’s Experience

Selena Gomez, the lead collaborator on “Ice Cream,” shared her enthusiasm for the project in an interview with Jane Lowe on the day of its release. “I’m so excited. The girls are so cool, and I love their music. I just think that they know… They have this thing about them… I had such a good time with them over FaceTime,” Gomez said, highlighting the unique dynamic of working with BLACKPINK despite the challenges posed by distance and the pandemic.

Continuing Impact

The impact of “Ice Cream” continues to be felt years after its release. In April 2024, BLACKPINK celebrated a remarkable 900 million views on YouTube for the music video. The track also amassed 577,530,404 streams on Spotify, showcasing its enduring popularity.

Conclusion

Ariana Grande’s involvement in BLACKPINK’s “Ice Cream” is a testament to her collaborative spirit and her ability to contribute significantly to projects that transcend cultural and musical boundaries. Her participation, though not immediately visible in the music video, played a crucial role in the song’s success. As fans continue to celebrate the achievements of “Ice Cream,” Grande’s contribution remains a shining example of the power of collaboration in the music industry.