positions

The harmonic structure of 'Positions' is defined by a four-chord loop that utilizes jazz-adjacent vocabulary within a pop-trap framework. By starting on the IV chord (Gmaj7) and featuring a secondary dominant (F#7), the progression emphasizes the relative minor (B minor) without fully committing to it as the home key. The absence of the D major tonic chord creates a 'floating' quality, common in contemporary R&B, where the resolution is suggested but never explicitly reached. The use of the V chord (A) at the end of the loop provides a turnaround that leads back to the Gmaj7 via a stepwise bass motion or a plagal-style return.

Ariana Grande's work on new music was first reported on April 19, 2020. While she initially stated in May 2020 that she would not release an album during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, she announced her sixth studio album via social media on October 14. On October 17, she posted a teaser video typing the title 'positions' on a keyboard, and later confirmed the single's release through a countdown on her official website.

Released in October 2020, 'Positions' debuted at number one on the Billboard Hot 100, making Grande the first artist with five number-one debuts. The track blends R&B and pop through a signature mix of plucked guitar and violin arrangements crafted by London on da Track and Tommy Brown.