Full Breakdown
Sabrina Carpenter Honored as Hitmaker of the Year at Variety's Annual Brunch
12/7/2025, 8:30:52 PM
Celebrating Musical Achievements
Sabrina Carpenter was recognized as Hitmaker of the Year at Variety's annual Hitmakers Brunch held on December 7, 2025, in Hollywood. The event celebrated the creativity and resilience of artists who have shaped the music landscape over the past year. Carpenter, who began writing songs at the age of 10, reflected on her journey to mainstream success, humorously noting, “This award is so funny to me... I was barely a bubbling undermaker.” Her remarks highlighted the pressures of the music industry and the importance of authenticity in songwriting.
Insights from the Honoree
During her acceptance speech, Carpenter emphasized the need for artists to create music that resonates personally rather than conforming to industry expectations. She advised aspiring songwriters to “write the opposite of whatever you think a hit is,” a philosophy that has guided her recent work, including her successful single “Manchild.” Carpenter expressed gratitude towards her fans and collaborators, acknowledging their role in her achievements. “Thank you to the fans that learn the lyrics and sing the songs and make them hits — whatever that means,” she stated.
Recognition of Other Artists
The brunch also honored several other notable figures in the music industry. Alex Warren received the Hitmakers Breakthrough of the Year award and shared a heartfelt story about overcoming personal challenges. BigXthaPlug was named Hitmakers Hip-Hop Disruptor of the Year, praising the independence fostered by UnitedMasters, while The Marías were recognized as Anti-Hit Hitmakers of the Year for their commitment to emotional authenticity in their music.
Industry Leaders Acknowledged
Jack Antonoff, a long-time collaborator of Carpenter, was celebrated as Producer of the Year alongside Mustard and Sounwave for their contributions to Kendrick Lamar's work. Elliot Grainge, CEO of Atlantic Records, was named Executive of the Year for revitalizing the label with successful releases from various artists, including Carpenter. Grainge emphasized the importance of artist-label partnerships, stating, “The most important role that labels play in the lives of artists is to push them to heights we all wish we could go to ourselves.”
Broader Impact and Future Prospects
The event underscored the evolving landscape of the music industry, where emotional storytelling and personal journeys are increasingly valued. Carpenter's recognition as Hitmaker of the Year not only marks a significant milestone in her career but also reflects a broader trend towards celebrating authenticity and creativity in music. As she embarks on her upcoming “Man’s Best Friend” tour, Carpenter's influence continues to grow, inspiring both fans and fellow artists alike.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The easiest way to write a bad song is to try to write a hit,” — Sabrina Carpenter
- “Thank you to the fans that learn the lyrics and sing the songs and make them hits — whatever that means.” — Sabrina Carpenter
- “Lead singer María Zardoya said: “Emotion has always taken us further than tempo ever could.” — María Zardoya, The Marías
- “Thank y’all for recognizing what we’re doing independently — yes independently.” — BigXthaPlug
- “Labels get a bad rep today for being labels, rightly are wrongly. We are all human,” — Elliot Grainge
This event not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the collaborative spirit that defines the music industry today.
