Ariana Grande kicked off her highly anticipated "Wicked: For Good" press tour with a star-studded tribute to her A-list mentors, including pop icons Mariah Carey and Beyoncé. In an exclusive conversation on the Billboard Pop Shop Podcast, Grande shared stories about her early days in the music industry and how these influential women helped shape her career.
Grande's admiration for Madonna is well-documented, with the singer previously gushing about the Queen of Pop's kindness and generosity. When asked about their relationship, Grande described Madonna as "immediately very kind." However, it was Beyoncé who stole the show when Grande praised the singer's unwavering support, recalling an incident where Beyoncé invited Grande to join her on a music video set early in her career.
The conversation took a special turn when Grande mentioned Mariah Carey, affectionately referring to her as "of course, Mariah." This nod was seen as a celebration of their enduring friendship and the impact Mariah has had on Grande's music. The trio's influence on Grande's life is undeniable, with each woman contributing to her growth as an artist.
The Billboard Pop Shop Podcast offers a unique glimpse into Grande's world, providing fans with an intimate look at her relationships and experiences. With this press tour, Grande is set to take the stage by storm, armed with the wisdom and support of these iconic mentors.
Grande's admiration for Madonna is well-documented, with the singer previously gushing about the Queen of Pop's kindness and generosity. When asked about their relationship, Grande described Madonna as "immediately very kind." However, it was Beyoncé who stole the show when Grande praised the singer's unwavering support, recalling an incident where Beyoncé invited Grande to join her on a music video set early in her career.
The conversation took a special turn when Grande mentioned Mariah Carey, affectionately referring to her as "of course, Mariah." This nod was seen as a celebration of their enduring friendship and the impact Mariah has had on Grande's music. The trio's influence on Grande's life is undeniable, with each woman contributing to her growth as an artist.
The Billboard Pop Shop Podcast offers a unique glimpse into Grande's world, providing fans with an intimate look at her relationships and experiences. With this press tour, Grande is set to take the stage by storm, armed with the wisdom and support of these iconic mentors.
. It's clear they've had a big impact on her career and life, and it's awesome she's sharing those stories with the world. I'm also loving how she's being genuine about their relationships – it shows she values those connections. Madonna getting a mention is cool too, but in a way that feels respectful rather than fan-girly 
. What's most exciting for me is that this press tour is giving fans a chance to see the real Ariana Grande, beyond just her music. It's all about building those connections and sharing the stories behind her success 
.
i mean, who doesnt love a good girl power moment? 
it sounds like these queens have been major inspirations 4 her career and i cant even handle how cute she is about them 
mariahs kindness & generosity sound SO real tho, and beyoncé's unwavering support is literally the best thing ever 
can't wait for Ariana 2 take the stage by storm 
I'm literally so hyped for Ariana's "Wicked: For Good" tour! It's so cool that she gave a tribute to her fave mentors Mariah & Beyoncé 
. And can we talk about how amazing Madonna is? Like, I've heard Grande's good things about her but now I'm even more interested in hearing more about their relationship 
. The part where Beyoncé invited Ariana to join her on a music video set sounds so inspiring! 
i mean can u imagine having Beyonce and Mariah Carey on your team from the start?! 
it's so beautiful to see her paying tribute to her idols like Mariah & Beyoncé - those queens are always inspiring me, btw Mariah's nod to Ariana was SO sweet and also can we talk about how amazing their friendship is? 
. And of course, Madonna's kindness & generosity are everything! I'm so glad Ariana is spreading that love 
. This press tour is gonna be lit and I'm excited to see what Ariana shares about her journey with these amazing women. 
But also, can't she just say "Mariah" or something without the obligatory nod? 
Still, I gotta give props to Beyoncé for being such a supportive mentor - that whole music video set invite thing is so cool! 
Not sure... 
You can't make music out of nothing - everything you need is inside you. ~Beyoncé 
! But seriously, it's clear that these strong women have played a huge role in shaping Grande's career and personality. It's awesome to see her paying it forward with this press tour, sharing her story and giving back to her idols 
, guess who gets to enjoy the profits without an album