Dove Cameron's Revealing Insights: Unpacking the Untold Story Behind 'Sand'

Dove Cameron, Thomas Doherty Getty Images(2)

Dove Cameron's debut album Alchemical: Volume 1 draws inspiration from her personal love life, with one of its songs appearing to be about her ex, Thomas Doherty. In an interview with Teen Vogue, Cameron shared that the track "Sand" reflects her intense love for a boy whom she believed would be her lifelong partner. However, she also discusses the unexpected turn of events that led to the relationship's deterioration and the subsequent emotional impact it had on her.

The former Disney Channel star went on to say that the life she had envisioned with someone and the person she believed they were completely shattered. She also realized that her initial instincts when meeting someone can be remarkably accurate, even after years of knowing them. Cameron and Doherty, who is 28 years old, first met on the set of Descendants 2 in 2017. Prior to that, she had been engaged to her Liv and Maddie costar Ryan McCartan in April 2016 after dating for three years, but they split in October of that same year.

After nearly four years of dating, the singer of "Boyfriend" and Doherty announced their breakup in December 2020. Cameron took to her Instagram Story to address the rumors and clarify their relationship status, revealing that they had actually split in October. Despite the difficulty of the decision, she emphasized that they still have love for each other and intend to remain friends.

In an interview with Teen Vogue, Cameron disclosed that she had foreseen the end of the relationship from the start. She acknowledged the potential devastation it would bring and the impact it would have on her self-perception. Nevertheless, she made a conscious choice to fully immerse herself in the relationship, even though it seemed like there was no other option.

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Over the course of the following "four years," Cameron experienced a sense of losing control, as if time was slipping through her fingers. She was fully aware that he couldn't reciprocate her love to the same extent, yet she still took the leap, fully expecting it to end in the way she had anticipated.

Cameron did not reveal the person the track was written about, but Doherty is the only person she has publicly dated for four years.

Ultimately, Cameron learned that regardless of how much love one feels for someone, if the other person is unable to reciprocate that love due to their own limitations, the relationship is destined to deteriorate, sometimes in a tumultuous manner.

Cameron shared that her relationship with Doherty was an inspiration for her song "LazyBaby," which she wrote after their breakup. She expressed how difficult the breakup was for her and how she needed something to help her move forward from the mourning process.

In the same year, Cameron came out as bisexual and reflected on her experience celebrating Pride Month with We. She mentioned that she used to be shy about her sexuality but now feels more open about being a member of the LGBTQ+ community, rather than just an ally. Although it feels vulnerable and different, Cameron expressed gratitude for the support and kindness she has received during this new journey.

Alchemical: Volume 1 will be released on Friday, December 1.