Ariana Grande Honors Mac Miller’s Early Career Influence
Ariana Grande recently spoke about the profound impact Mac Miller had on her musical journey, particularly during her early career. The pop sensation reflected on this influence during a master class at Chapman University in Orange, California. Her insights were shared in a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter for their Awards Chatter podcast.
Ariana Grande Credits Mac Miller for Her Sound
Grande, 32, emphasized that Miller, whose real name was Malcolm James McCormick, played a pivotal role in shaping her pop-R&B sound. She described him as instrumental in guiding her to “do the brave thing” musically. Grande expressed her gratitude for his influence, stating it allowed her to explore her artistry with R&B undertones.
Their Iconic Collaborations
Their collaboration began with the 2013 hit single “The Way,” which was featured on Grande’s debut album, *Yours Truly*. This track, which peaked at No. 9 on Billboard’s Hot 100, marked both artists’ entry into the top tier of the music charts.
- Song: The Way
- Release Year: 2013
- Chart Performance: Peaked at No. 9 on Billboard’s Hot 100
- Collaborations: My Favorite Part, Into You (remix) in 2016
Grande recalled feeling eager to have Miller on *The Way*, not just because he fit the song perfectly, but also due to his significant influence in helping her find her sound.
Remembering Mac Miller
Mac Miller tragically passed away on September 7, 2018, from an accidental overdose at the age of 26. His untimely death left a lasting impact on Grande, who has consistently honored his memory. She has performed his songs during her concerts, including the *Sweetener* tour, and referenced him in her music, notably in the track “thank u, next.” In a heartfelt post, she celebrated the 10-year anniversary of “The Way” by expressing her love for Miller on social media.
In a 2020 interview with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, Grande praised Miller’s dedication to his craft, sharing that he devoted every moment to his music and artistry, often losing track of time in the studio.
Ariana Grande’s reflections reveal not only her appreciation for Mac Miller’s artistry but also the deep impact he had on her career, solidifying the bond they shared through their music.
