Unlike “Problem,” which introduced her previous album era, Ariana Grande’s “Focus” did not launch with an aggressive pre-order campaign. It did not feature a debut night performance on the Radio Disney Music Awards. It did not feature another artist, let alone an Iggy Azalea whose “Fancy” was establishing itself as the hottest song in America. It did not garner a reaction of the same positive flavor.
On the other hand, it is still a new Ariana Grande single. It has still received immense support from pop and rhythmic radio. It has still, even in a music world ruled by Adele’s “Hello,” commanded considerable buzz.
So while it doubtfully had any prayer of debuting at the same #3 position achieved by Grande’s “Problem,” it was still expected to make a splash on the all-encompassing Hot 100.
The data has been tabulated, and its splash comes at #7.
In claiming #7, “Focus” becomes Grande’s first Top 10 hit without a credited featured artist.
— Nielsen Music adds that “Focus” sold 113,000 US copies during its first week of release.
