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LOS ANGELES, Jan. 14, 2026, 10:38 p.m. ET
Ariana Grande Credits Mac Miller for shaping Her Sound
Days before what would have been his 34th birthday, Ariana Grande is reflecting on the profound influence the late Mac Miller had on her artistic journey.
- Ariana Grande revealed Mac Miller encouraged her to embrace her authentic self and explore R&B-influenced pop music.
- The singer discussed Miller’s impact during an appearance on the “Awards Chatter” podcast.
- Grande and Miller collaborated on the 2013 hit single, “The Way.”
- Miller died in 2018 at the age of 26 from an accidental overdose.
- Grande’s debut album, “Yours Truly,” released in 2013, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
Ariana Grande is opening up about how Mac Miller helped her discover her musical identity, crediting him with the courage to shed a pre-conceived image and embrace her true artistic voice.
Before their relationship blossomed into romance, Miller featured on Grande’s breakout single, “The Way.” “That’s also why I was so eager to ask him to be a part of it, not only because he was perfect for the song, but I also felt like I had him to thank for finding my sound,” Grande reflected.
“Yours Truly” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 upon its release.The album’s singles included “The Way,” “Baby I,” and “Right There,” featuring Big Sean. Throughout her career,Grande has earned two Grammy Awards,including one for her fourth album,”Sweetener.”
Miller died at 26 years old on Sept. 7, 2018, consequently of an accidental overdose involving fentanyl, cocaine, and alcohol. He had released his fifth studio album, “Swimming,” just a month prior.
In 2019, three individuals were charged with distributing the drugs that lead to Miller’s death, and all three were subsequently
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