Ariana Grande Kicks Off ‘Wicked: For Good’ Press Tour by Celebrating Her A-List Mentors: Mariah, Madonna & Beyoncé

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.

I think it's dope that Ariana Grande is giving so much love to her idols Mariah Carey and Beyoncé . 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 .

omg u guyz i cant even!!! Ariana's tribute to mariah & beyoncé was EVERYTHING 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 anyway, i'm low-key dying to see this press tour now can't wait for Ariana 2 take the stage by storm

OMG u guys 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 . I love how she spoke about how they helped shape her music career, it's like their influence is still felt even after all these years . 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'm so down for Ariana Grande's "Wicked: For Good" press tour! It's amazing how she's been open about her admiration for those who paved the way for her in the music industry. Mariah Carey and Beyoncé are true icons , and I love that Ariana is giving them the love they deserve. That story about Beyoncé inviting Ariana to join her on a music video set early on is so sweet . And of course, Mariah's impact on Ariana's music is undeniable - those two are musical soulmates ! This press tour can't come soon enough, I need more Ariana Grande in my life

aww thats so sweet of Ariana to give those shoutouts she sounds like such a lucky girl to have had those amazing role models in her life i mean can u imagine having Beyonce and Mariah Carey on your team from the start?! that's literally a dream come true for any artist, esp considering their legacy and influence in the music industry it's great to see Ariana giving back to them like this and sharing their stories with her fans - it's such a nice reminder of how far we've all come

omg I'm so here for Ariana's "Wicked: For Good" press tour already! 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? I love how Ariana is sharing stories from her early days in the music industry - it's giving me all the nostalgia for when I first started following her music back in 2013 . And of course, Madonna's kindness & generosity are everything! I'm so glad Ariana is spreading that love

I think it's so cool that Ariana Grande is giving tribute to her idols Mariah Carey and Beyoncé! It's awesome to see how these women have inspired her career and she's now paying it forward. I mean, can you imagine being part of a music video set with Beyoncé at such a young age? That must've been such an incredible experience for Ariana! Plus, Mariah Carey is just so iconic - love the term "of course, Mariah" . This press tour is gonna be lit and I'm excited to see what Ariana shares about her journey with these amazing women.

I think Ariana Grande should've kept Mariah Carey out of that one... like, what's the deal with all the 'of course' s? It's kinda like, we get it, Mariah, you're important to her life. 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! And it's def cool to see these three powerful women influencing Ariana's life and career. But what if some people felt like Grande was trying too hard to tie herself to Mariah? Not sure...

You can't make music out of nothing - everything you need is inside you. ~Beyoncé The power of female friendships is so strong! It's amazing how Ariana Grande was inspired by these incredible women and grew into a superstar because of their support

Ariana Grande is just so lucky to have had these amazing women in her life ! I mean, can you imagine having Mariah Carey, Beyoncé, and Madonna all supporting you from the start? It's like she has the ultimate squad ! 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 . And let's be real, who wouldn't want to join Beyoncé on set? That's like the ultimate dream come true for any artist!

just heard that Ariana Grande's new album has been delayed like 3 times already , and now they're saying it might not come out until next year... meanwhile, she's still touring "Wicked" , guess who gets to enjoy the profits without an album