Sabrina Carpenter Looks Back on ‘Baby Steps’ That Led to Best New Artist Grammy Nod 10 Years Into Her Career

(People) – Sabrina Carpenter may be nominated for best new artist at the 2025 Grammy Awards, but she’s certainly no stranger to the music world.

Carpenter, 25, had already released five albums when her infectious single “Espresso” took hold of the charts in April, catapulting her into a new level of stardom that only grew further upon the release of her sixth album, Short n’ Sweet, in August. 

And while it may seem a mistake for an artist a decade into their career to be up for a newcomer award, Carpenter is fine having played the long game.

“I’ve always been true to myself and believed in my work since I was young,” she tells PEOPLE in an email interview. “I’ve realized that it’s always been about the small baby steps that you take over time to get you to this point.”

In addition to best new artist, the pop star is also up for album of the year, record of the year, song of the year, best pop vocal album and best pop solo performance at the Grammys. She says being nominated is “such an honor,” as it was a goal of hers since she was a child.

Carpenter recently wrapped the North American leg of her Short n’ Sweet tour, which included a “Sweet Spot” pop-up experience hosted by T-Mobile that offered fans ticket giveaways.

“These collaborations have felt super authentic to this album and tour and fan friendly, which I’m grateful for,” she says. “It’s great to work with a brand that values the same things I do and finds ways to make my concerts more accessible and exciting for my fans.”