Singular: Act I
A dance-pop album themed around self-empowerment, marking the first time Carpenter co-wrote every track.
Singular: Act I is the third studio album by American singer Sabrina Carpenter. It was released on November 9, 2018, through Hollywood Records. The dance-pop album is themed around self-empowerment and marked the first time where all songs on an album were co-written by Carpenter. The album itself is the first half of a two-piece project, being supplemented by Singular: Act II (2019).
- Artist
- Sabrina Carpenter
- Genre
- Dance-pop
- Release Year
- 2018
- Label
- Hollywood Records
- Followed by
- Singular: Act II
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Carpenter began work on the album shortly after the release of her second studio album, Evolution (2016). During The De-Tour in 2017, she began teasing material including a now scrapped song titled 'Alone Together' and 'Why'. In May 2018, Carpenter began teasing Singular with the release of the lead single, 'Almost Love'. In October, during a performance of 'Almost Love' on The Late Late Show with James Corden, Carpenter ripped off a piece of the set wall revealing part of the album cover art and spray painted '11/9' indicating the release date. Carpenter stated her reasoning for separating the releases: 'i feel with the way music is digested nowadays i wanted you to be able to really hear each song. So technically by splitting it into 2 albums I'm able to give you more songs whereas if i just did one album i think a few would have had to go.'
In Their Own Story
The album opens with 'Almost Love', which Mike Nied of Idolator described as an 'edgy anthem' about a relationship ready to take the next step, containing 'intermittent whistles and drums'. 'Sue Me' was written by Carpenter after she had been sued by her ex music managers Stan Rogow and Elliot Lurie for allegedly not paying them commissions after she fired them in 2014. In an interview with Live With Kelly & Ryan, Carpenter noted the song is about 'empowerment', 'confidence' and 'being comfortable with yourself regardless of what anybody thinks'. The album closes with 'Diamonds Are Forever', which The Line of Best Fit called a 'theatrical belter' and compared to Ariana Grande's song 'Dangerous Woman'.
Reader's Guide
Two singles were released for the album: 'Almost Love' and 'Sue Me', while 'Paris' and 'Bad Time' were released as promotional singles. 'Almost Love' topped the Dance Club Songs chart, making it Carpenter's second song to do so, and reached 21 on the US Mainstream Top 40 chart. 'Sue Me' also reached number one on the Dance Club Songs chart, making it Carpenter's third number one on that chart. The album debuted at number 103 on the US Billboard 200 and 38 on the US Top Album Sales chart. In support of the album, Carpenter embarked on the Singular Tour in March 2019, beginning in Orlando, Florida. A compact disc was exclusively released for sale at Target stores.
Did You Know?
- The album marked the first time where all songs on an album were co-written by Carpenter.
- The song 'Sue Me' was written after Carpenter was sued by her ex music managers Stan Rogow and Elliot Lurie.
- The album cover was revealed when Carpenter ripped off a piece of a set wall during a performance on The Late Late Show with James Corden.
- The album is the first half of a two-piece project, supplemented by Singular: Act II (2019).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Singular: Act I?
This studio album marks Sabrina Carpenter's pivotal shift from Disney pop toward a mature R&B-infused sound. Released in late 2018, it serves as the first installment of a planned two-part project exploring independence and self-discovery.
When was Singular: Act I released?
The album launched on November 9, 2018, under Hollywood Records following her Evolution EP. It was made available in both physical and digital formats for fans worldwide.
What musical styles define the record?
Carpenter blends pop with electropop and R&B elements to create a darker, more sophisticated sonic palette. This artistic statement allowed her to shed previous constraints and embrace a new identity.
Why is this album significant for fans?
It represents a bold declaration of independence where the artist steps fully into her own adult persona. Many consider it a key chapter in her musical evolution away from teen-oriented music.
Does Singular: Act I have a sequel?
Yes, this project was designed as part one of a larger narrative that concluded with Singular: Act II. The two albums together explore themes of modern romance and personal growth.
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