Ariana Grande’s journey from Nickelodeon star to global pop sensation wasn’t always easy. Before her rise in the music industry, she faced uncertainty about how to define her sound and image beyond the characters she played on television. One important voice during that transition was Mac Miller, the late rapper and producer who not only became a collaborator but also a supportive friend.
Today, fans remember Mac Miller not just for his music but for his lasting influence on those around him. The Pennsylvania-born artist would have turned 36 this year, and his presence continues to resonate deeply in pop culture. Even years after his passing, Miller’s guidance and personality remain a source of inspiration for many, including Grande.
In a recent episode of The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, Grande reflected on how Mac encouraged her to step out of her comfort zone. She explained that she was uncertain about how to transition from her Nickelodeon persona into a more authentic musical identity. This advice would shape not only her debut album but also her approach to the music industry and self-expression.
Ariana Grande credits Mac Miller for musical guidance
Grande revealed that after her run on Victorious, she struggled to determine the direction of her first record. "My debut album took some time to figure out, because there was also a strange presence from Nickelodeon in my head at the beginning of, like, what should this project be?" she said.
It was Mac Miller who encouraged her to embrace her individuality and take creative risks. "I've never talked about this, but actually Malcolm, who you might know as Mac, encouraged me to be myself, and that it was OK to kind of shed that character and embrace my brown hair and make R&B-influenced pop music and separate and do the brave thing."
Miller’s support directly contributed to the creation of Yours Truly, Grande’s 2013 debut album. The record included "The Way," their first collaboration, marking the start of both a professional and romantic connection.
Grande emphasized that including Miller on the track was her way of expressing gratitude for his guidance. "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."
Remembering Mac Miller’s impact
Grande and Miller confirmed their romantic relationship in September 2016 but split in May 2018. Following their breakup, Miller experienced personal struggles, including a tragic accidental overdose in September 2018. The loss was devastating, leaving a permanent mark on Grande and the music community.
Even years later, Grande continues to celebrate Miller’s influence on her career and life. His encouragement to embrace her true self, pursue bold creative choices, and step beyond her early television image is a reminder of the quiet, profound ways artists inspire one another in the worlds of pop, rap, and R&B.
Through her reflections, fans get a glimpse of how personal relationships can shape music careers, offering lessons that extend far beyond charts and awards. Mac Miller’s legacy lives on not only in his own music but in the paths he helped others navigate, including Ariana Grande’s journey to becoming a global star.