Ariana Grande is remembering Mac Miller‘s influence on her music seven years after his passing.

Can you believe it’s been nearly a decade since we lost Mac? It’s absolutely unreal how quick time is passing… But Ariana hasn’t forgotten her ex’s influence on her musical style. While hosting her master class at Chapman University earlier in the month, the Wicked star said Mac was the one who wanted her to bring R&B style into her pop music — which she described as “a brave thing” she’s “very thankful” for:

“That’s also a part of why I was so eager to ask [Miller] 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.”

Aww… How sweet.

Related: Ariana Grande Confronts CHAOTIC Paparazzi On Wicked Red Carpet

Of course, she’s talking about her 2013 hit The Way, on which Mac had a big feature — he was even a part of the music video. Get a refresher (below):

Such a great song that came from both of their incredible minds!

Mac sadly passed away after an accidental overdose in 2018 at 26 years old, just months after he and Ariana broke up. They’d originally gone Instagram official in 2016.

Mac continues to be missed deeply. We’re always sending our best to Ariana and everyone who loved him.

[Image via Jake’s Takes/Ariana Grande/YouTube/Ray Garbo/WENN.com]

The post Ariana Grande Opens Up About Mac Miller 7 Years Following His Untimely Death: 'Very Thankful' appeared first on Perez Hilton.