Sabrina Carpenter Tells Industry Insiders ‘Write the Music You Want to Listen to Yourself’ as She Receives Variety’s Hitmaker of the Year Honor

At Variety's star-studded Hitmakers luncheon in Hollywood on Saturday, Sabrina Carpenter was celebrated as the publication's Hitmaker of the Year. The pop sensation, reflecting on her whirlwind year, offered counterintuitive advice drawn from her own journey, which began with songwriting at age ten. "Attempting to craft a hit is the surest path to a bad song," Carpenter remarked, reading from a diary. "Instead, write the opposite. Write what resonates personally, something only you could create—include that unusual chord change, and find inventive ways to call men foolish."

The award was presented by her frequent collaborator, mega-producer Jack Antonoff, known for his work with Taylor Swift and Lana Del Rey as well as his own band Bleachers. He highlighted Carpenter's unique artistry and her respectful relationship with her audience. "She operates on the principle that people are intelligent," Antonoff stated. "That belief allows for creative risks, like the thrilling key change in 'Please Please Please,' which resonates because it feels genuine and interesting."

Carpenter took a moment to thank her support system, including songwriter Amy Allen, for encouraging her wildest ideas. She also expressed gratitude to her label, Island Records—a historic imprint founded in 1959 that has been home to artists like U2 and Amy Winehouse—for their rare trust in her vision. "They don't try to define a hit for me," she noted. Ultimately, she credited her fans for transforming songs into successes. "Thank you to the fans who learn the lyrics and sing along—they are the ones who make these hits, whatever that term means," Carpenter concluded, echoing a sentiment shared by many honorees.

This recognition caps an extraordinary period for Carpenter, who is currently nominated for six Grammy Awards, including the prestigious trifecta of Album, Record, and Song of the Year. This follows her first Grammy wins in February for Best Pop Solo Performance ("Espresso") and Best Pop Vocal Album ("Short n' Sweet"). Her career momentum is further evidenced by her ongoing arena tour, which launched in 2024 and includes a European leg before returning to the U.S. this fall. The release of her single "Manchild" in June became an instant blockbuster, setting the stage for her well-reviewed August album. Industry analysts note that her ability to blend catchy pop with lyrical wit has allowed her to navigate rapid fame while maintaining artistic credibility, a balance many young stars struggle to achieve.

The Hitmakers event itself was filled with notable names. Other honorees included artists like Tyler, the Creator, Tate McRae, and legendary blues guitarist Buddy Guy, whose career spans over seven decades. Presenters such as composer Benny Blanco and singer Laufey added to the gathering's prestige, underscoring the industry-wide celebration of creative achievement.