Ariana Grande Reflects on Her Musical Journey
Ariana Grande recently opened up about her early days in the music industry, recounting the immense support she received from some of the most iconic figures in pop music. In a candid conversation on Evan Ross Katz's Shut Up Evan podcast, she recalled moments with superstars like Madonna, Mariah Carey, and Beyoncé, emphasizing the importance of their encouragement during her formative years.
A Warm Welcome from Madonna
“I'm very lucky that my idols have been very kind to me… I remember Madonna immediately was very kind,” Grande shared. Her voice lit up as she recounted how Madonna was one of the first celebrities to reach out to her, giving her a heartwarming welcome into the industry. Grande expressed just how overwhelming that kindness felt, especially coming from someone she admired so greatly.
“It was just really cool. I was overwhelmed by it, because I love her so much.”
Building a Bond Through Music
This mutual respect and admiration between Grande and Madonna blossomed into a beautiful relationship over the years. In 2015, Grande honored Madonna by covering her classic hit “Vogue” on her Honeymoon Tour, and just a year later, the two shared the stage at Miami's Raising Malawi event, performing “Music” together.
Moreover, the pop icon even made a voice cameo on Grande's empowering anthem “God Is a Woman.” Such collaborations not only highlight their artistic chemistry but underscore the deep bond that has formed between them.
Tribute to Female Empowerment
During her 2017 cover story with Cosmopolitan, Grande openly expressed her deep admiration for Madonna. “I love her with every ounce of my being, and not just because of her ability to outlast the blatant bullying and nonsense that she's had to put up with,” she said. “I'm so inspired by her bravery and her strength. I can look at her and not be scared to be strong.” This statement resonates deeply within the context of a male-dominated industry where female artists often face additional challenges.
The Importance of Support from Icons
Ariana also reflected on the guidance she received from Mariah Carey, with whom she has shared the stage several times. She mentioned a pivotal moment meeting Beyoncé while she was filming a music video in 2013. “Beyoncé had me come visit a music video she was shooting, and I was just there in the corner. I was like, 'Why am I here?'” Grande recounted, embodying the awe and gratitude she felt being in the presence of such greatness. This experience not only emphasized the kindness of contemporary stars but also the tradition of older generations supporting emerging artists.
“It made me feel safe.”
The Legacy of Kindness in Music
Grande's reflections bring to light the importance of support within the music community. The camaraderie among women in the industry sets a precedent for the future generation of artists. As they break boundaries and inspire one another, it's these acts of kindness and encouragement that foster a sense of belonging and motivation.
Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility
The shared experiences of Ariana, Madonna, Mariah, and Beyoncé illustrate an invaluable lesson: the necessity of nurturing creativity and supporting fellow artists. Grande's tribute to Madonna is a reminder that no matter how far we go, the kindness we extend to others is what truly elevates the industry as a whole. As we reflect on these relationships, it's a call for all of us within the creative space to actively promote goodwill and empowerment, ensuring that future generations will feel just as welcomed and supported.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of these iconic women, let's continue to champion the spirit of collaboration and kindness that they embody.
Source reference: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/ariana-grande-madonna-beyonce-famous-early-days-1235445757/
