Majorie Grande makes chart history with “Ordinary Things”
In an unprecedented moment for the music industry, Ariana Grande’s 98-year-old grandmother, Majorie Grande, has shattered records by becoming the oldest person ever to land a hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This historic achievement comes after Ariana credited her “Nonna” as both a singer and a writer on the track “Ordinary Things,” featured on Grande’s latest album “Eternal Sunshine.”
The song debuted at number 55, propelling Majorie Grande to the top of the record books, surpassing the previous record held by Fred Stobaugh, who was 96 when his song “Oh Sweet Lorraine” hit number 42 in 2013. Majorie’s contribution to “Ordinary Things” includes heartfelt reflections and relationship advice, drawing from her own life experiences with her late husband, Frank.
Her advice on love and partnership, woven into the fabric of the song, resonates deeply, capturing the essence of lasting commitment and the importance of cherishing everyday moments. “Never go to bed without kissin’ goodnight. That’s the worst thing to do, don’t ever, ever do that,” Majorie advises, emphasizing the value of maintaining a strong emotional connection with loved ones.
Ariana Grande, reflecting on the creative process behind “Ordinary Things,” shared with Zane Lowe for Apple Music 1 how incorporating her nonna’s voice notes into the album’s closing track added a profound emotional depth and provided a poignant answer to the thematic questions raised throughout the album. “I always record my Nonna because you never know what she’s going to say,” Grande remarked, highlighting the serendipitous discovery of the perfect ending to her album in one of these voice notes.
This remarkable collaboration between generations not only cements Majorie Grande’s place in music history but also serves as a testament to the timeless wisdom and enduring spirit of older generations. As “Ordinary Things” climbs the charts, it reminds listeners of the simple yet profound truths that guide us through life’s complexities, all the while showcasing the profound bond between Ariana and her beloved grandmother.
