Overview and Why These Songs Matter
Across her catalog, Ariana Grande has turned past relationships into defining pop moments, using music to process emotion rather than to disclose private details. This evergreen explainer focuses on the documented connections widely reported by credible outlets and the songs widely linked to them, from Pete Davidson and Mac Miller to Ricky Alvarez and others. We distinguish between confirmed facts, informed reporting, and speculation, with an emphasis on context, timing, and what her lyrics actually say versus what circulates online.
Pete Davidson (2018)
Relationship Timeline and Public Details
In 2018, Grande began dating comedian Pete Davidson. They became a high-profile couple, briefly engaged, and parted ways by late that year. The songs widely tied to this chapter are “thank u, next,” “ghostin,” and “moonlight.” Grande confirmed references in interviews and in the visuals, notably the line “I’m too busy thinkin’ ‘bout Megan” in “thank u, next” and imagery in the “moonlight” video pointing to their breakup. Below are the key public milestones tied to Davidson and Grande’s relationship.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship Start | May 2018 | Reported by outlets citing insiders; Grande referenced the early relationship in social media posts at the time |
| Engagement | June 2018 | Cited by reputable entertainment news; Grande publicly acknowledged the engagement before calling it off |
| Breakup | August 2018 | Statements from both sides matched in press; songs including “ghostin” directly address the split |
| Key Songs Linked | “thank u, next,” “ghostin,” “moonlight” | Lyrical references, music video imagery, Grande’s statements at the time |
Lyrical References and Tone
In “thank u, next,” Grande thanks past partners and frames the relationship as a learning experience, with lines that nod to the intensity of the connection. “Ghostin” explores the difficulty of moving on and the lingering emotional presence after a breakup. “moonlight” uses nighttime imagery and escapism motifs, matching the timing of the relationship’s end.
Mac Miller (2016–2018)
Relationship Timeline and Public Details
Grande’s relationship with rapper Mac Miller spanned roughly 2016 to 2018. Reports indicated growing closeness in 2016, followed by periods of public appearances together before going private. Their breakup came amid Miller’s passing in September 2018, which sparked an outpouring of grief and tributes, including from Grande. Below are the key public milestones tied to Miller and Grande’s relationship.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship Start | Approx. 2016 | Cited by outlets with sources close to the artists; inferred from social posts over time |
| Breakup Timing | Summer 2018 | Matched by reputable coverage; Grande referenced healing and loss publicly around this period |
| Tragic Event | Miller’s death, September 7, 2018 | Confirmed by coroner reports and law enforcement statements |
| Key Songs Linked | “breathin,” “NASA,” “Thank U, Next” (later), “moonlight” | Interviews, lyrics, and timelines discussed by Grande and journalists |
Lyrical References and Tone
Songs such as “breathin” address anxiety and recovery, indirectly reflecting the emotional strain of loss. “NASA” uses space imagery to describe needing emotional distance. In interviews leading up to “thank u, next,” Grande stated she was thinking about Miller while writing it, though she channels those lessons into gratitude rather than dwelling on the relationship itself.
Ricky Alvarez (2013–2014)
Relationship Timeline and Public Details
Grande’s relationship with photographer Ricky Alvarez was one of her earliest documented romances in the public eye, occurring around 2013–2014. The couple kept a relatively low profile, but photos and reports surfaced in tabloids during that period. The songs often mentioned in connection with Alvarez include “The Way” and “Daydreamin’.” Below are the key public milestones tied to Alvarez and Grande’s relationship.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Relationship Start | 2013 | Cited by reputable outlets with access to relationship timelines |
| Relationship End | 2014 | Covered by entertainment media at the time |
| Key Songs Linked | “The Way,” “Daydreamin’” | Interviews and lyrics from Grande and songwriters |
Lyrical References and Tone
With Pharrell producing “The Way,” the song’s buoyant tone reflects youthful infatuation and new love. “Daydreamin’” features reflective lyrics about simpler moments and imagination, aligning with the nostalgia often tied to early relationships and lost innocence.
Other Notable Inspirations and Future Focus
Grande has also referenced friendship, personal growth, and broader emotional journeys that are not strictly tied to one ex. Examples include “Better Off,” which addresses moving forward, and “positions,” where career and personal context are emphasized. Going forward, she has indicated in interviews that she prefers to let her catalog speak for itself rather than confirm or deny specific narratives about current or future relationships.
How to Assess Lyrics and Reports
When exploring this topic, prioritize lyrics alongside Grande’s own statements and reputable sourcing, while treating tabloid timelines with caution. Metaphor, timing, and visual cues in music videos often enhance storytelling without revealing private details. For a durable understanding, focus on themes—growth, gratitude, resilience, and self-reflection—rather than chasing every rumored connection.
Useful Comparison: Reported Relationships and Thematic Focus in Key Songs
| Ex-Partner / Link | Reported Relationship Period | Key Songs Often Linked | Thematic Focus in Lyrics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pete Davidson | 2018 (brief engagement) | thank u, next, ghostin, moonlight | Gratitude mixed with reflection; processing intensity and change |
| Mac Miller | 2016–2018 | breathin, NASA, moonlight, Thank U, Next | Growth after loss; boundaries; appreciative closure |
| Ricky Alvarez | 2013–20214 | The Way, Daydreamin’ | Youthful excitement; nostalgia; early love |
Conclusion and Takeaways
Songs about Ariana Grande’s exes form a major part of her narrative as a storyteller, but the most consistent takeaways are her focus on growth, gratitude, and emotional clarity. Verified timelines center on Davidson, Miller, and Alvarez, with “thank u, next,” “breathin,” and “The Way” standing out as directly tied to those relationships. By centering themes rather than unverified gossip, listeners can appreciate how her experiences shape enduring music without needing confirmation of every detail.