Washington, Aug. 4 -- Ariana Grande has clarified that her decision to take a break from public-facing work after completing her Eternal Sunshine Tour was planned well in advance and was not prompted by recent events or public speculation.

Speaking to fans during her performance at the United Center in Chicago on Monday night, the singer addressed growing discussion surrounding her announcement and sought to reassure supporters who had expressed concern.

"So basically, the announcement that was made yesterday was not a reactive or impulsive thing," Grande told the audience, adding, "It is something that I had decided to plan that I had quietly made a long time ago and it's a decision that was made from a thoughtful and empowered place,"...