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Sabrina Carpenter found herself at the center of controversy this week when social media users questioned the authenticity of her live performances on the Short n' Sweet Tour.
The debate ignited when a TikTok user claimed Carpenter's performances consisted of "30% lip singing, 30% backing track, and 40% singing." The singer, who has been selling out venues across the United States, didn't let the accusation go unchallenged. "I sing live at every show 100%. would you like to speak to my audio engineers."
Concert attendees have rallied behind Carpenter, with one fan stating, "I saw her live and she 100% sang everything." Another supporter noted, "You can clearly hear when she's singing and when there's backing. She's not masking it."
The timing of this controversy coincides with Carpenter's career reaching new heights. Christina Aguilera, who recently collaborated with Carpenter on a reimagining of "What a Girl Wants," defended the young artist in TIME magazine: "Never underestimate the mighty power behind her talent. It's the reason she has catapulted to her earned spot as one of today's leading pop artists."
Reflecting on her recent achievements, including her MTV VMAs performance and SNL appearance, Carpenter shared with TIME, "I literally threw up when I found out about SNL. Not to be graphic." She acknowledged feeling more prepared for success now than in her younger years, stating, "If I was even 17 or 18, I think I would have been way, way more nervous and intimidated."
Despite the controversy, Carpenter's momentum shows no signs of slowing. Her latest album has achieved platinum certification, and she's set to perform at the prestigious TIME100 Next event in New York City on October 9. The former Disney star has effectively demonstrated that she's not just surviving in the industry, but thriving.
