Ariana Grande Pays Tribute to Mac Miller with Remastered Version of ‘The Way’

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Ariana Grande has decided to celebrate the 10th anniversary of her debut album Yours Truly (2013) in the best way possible – by releasing a highly anticipated deluxe version. In this new release, she has dedicated a new and emotive reinterpretation of her collaboration with rapper Mac Miller, «The Way.» Mac and Ariana met in 2013 to record this hit, and three years later, they began dating, ending their relationship in 2018. Miller passed away in September of that same year due to a drug overdose. He was only 26 years old.

In the original music video, both artists exhibit an undeniable chemistry and connection, which later translated into a more emotional realm. Grande has spoken on numerous occasions about Miller and how important he was to her. An indescribable feeling that has now materialized in this beautiful version.

This is a very touching remasterization, featuring live music. In fact, in the final part where Miller delivers his verses, celestial violins can be heard, making his voice seem to come from a higher and more magical place. A very moving way to make us hear the artist once again. In the new music video, filmed in London, we see a radiant Ariana. We understand how challenging it must be to blend with the sentiment of a song with so much meaning, but we witness her doing so with a strength indicative of a healing process, setting a brilliant example of channeling her emotions through art. We can see the artist closing her eyes as she listens to Miller’s voice, smiling as she follows the lyrics.

An Immortal Love

Grande has always conveyed that they shared a very intimate and special relationship. At the time of their breakup, she communicated through her social media that she had been trying to support Mac’s sobriety for years. «I respect and adore him endlessly, and am grateful to have him in my life in any form, at all times, regardless of how our relationship changes or what the universe holds for each of us! Unconditional love is not selfish. It is wanting the best for that person even if at the moment, it’s not you,” she wrote.

Miller’s passing brought about a significant grieving process for Grande. “I adored you from the day I met you when I was 19, and I always will. I can’t believe you aren’t here anymore. I really can’t wrap my head around it. We talked about this, so many times. I’m so mad, I’m so sad, I don’t know what to do. You were my dearest friend. For so long. Above anything else. I’m so sorry i couldn’t fix or take your pain away. I really wanted to. The kindest, sweetest soul with demons he never deserved. I hope you’re okay now. Rest,” she wrote on her Instagram profile after noticing Miller’s death.

Ariana has kept Mac’s memory alive on various occasions throughout her career. From briefly mentioning him as an «angel» in «Thank U, Next,» to paying tribute to him in the virtual Fortnite concert, where an avatar of Ariana was shown ascending to the sky after singing «The Way.» She has also named one of the shades in her new collection «Pickin Petals,» a direct reference to Miller’s lyrics in the song. In the visualized version of the track, the screen fades away, turning black and highlighting the rapper, «feat. Mac Miller.»

Undoubtedly, this was one of the most anticipated tracks for fans in the new deluxe version of «Yours Truly,» as reflected in the comments received on the video:

“Beyond proud to hear her sing this again and hope she has found peace with the loss that we all have felt for the last 5 years”

“I’m immensely proud of Ari and how much she’s grown over the years. This song is truly special and holds great meaning for her and for all of us”

“so strong and brave of you to sing this iconic but emotional song. so proud of you ari. mac is definitely proud. rip”

“5 years ago, I never imagined Ariana would sing this song live ever again after what happened then. But here we are, we never expected this masterpiece to be heard again live. Ariana, you’re so brave! I’m so proud of you”

Now, this new version of «The Way» will endure in the legacy that Ariana leaves behind, just like the memory of Mac Miller.