Ariana Grande recently opened up about the profound impact Mac Miller had on her musical journey, seven years after his passing.
In an uncommon public commentary, Grande shared insights about her former boyfriend during a discussion with The Hollywood Reporter at a live MasterClass event held earlier this month at Chapman University in Orange, California.
The celebrated singer expressed her gratitude towards the “The Spins” musician, crediting him for inspiring her to “take the bold step” of blending R&B elements into her pop music creations.
Grande, now 32, revealed that Miller’s support was a key reason she was “so eager” to invite him to collaborate on their 2013 hit, “The Way.”
“Not only was he a perfect fit for the track, but I also felt indebted to him for helping me discover my musical identity,” she remarked.
In 2016, the duo teamed up again for Miller’s song “My Favorite Part” and also worked on a remix of Grande’s track “Into You,” both released that same year.
The “Wicked” actress and Miller confirmed their relationship in 2016 and dated for nearly two years before calling it quits in May 2018.
Just four months later, Miller tragically died of an accidental overdose on Sept. 7, 2018. He was 26.
Grande mourned his loss with a touching tribute shared on her Instagram at the time.
“I adored you from the day I met you when I was 19 and I always will. I can’t believe you aren’t here anymore. I really can’t wrap my head around it. We talked about this,” she wrote.
“So many times. I’m so mad, I’m so sad, I don’t know what to do. You were my dearest friend. For so long. Above anything else.”
Grande expressed her regret for not being able to “fix” him or “take [his] pain away.”
“I really wanted to. The kindest, sweetest soul with demons he never deserved. I hope you’re OK now. Rest,” she wrote.
Grande has continued to honor his memory over the years, celebrating his birthday, getting a tattoo of his dog’s name and even giving him a shout-out on her popular 2019 song “Thank U, Next.”
