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Nathan Sykes Explains Why It’s Easy to Work With Ex-Girlfriend Ariana Grande

HuffPost Live

There’s no beef between these famous singers. On Monday, February 22, Nathan Sykes, the youngest member of The Wanted, stopped by HuffPost Live and discussed what it’s like to work with his former flame, Ariana Grande, once again.

The former couple reunited for a new version of his love ballad “Over and Over Again,” which was originally released in 2015. Unlike some, Sykes was more than happy to work with his ex, who he dated for four months in 2013.

Related: Ariana Grande Joins Ex-Boyfriend Nathan Sykes on 'Over and Over Again' Duet

The 22-year-old explained how difficult it is to make a connection with someone you don’t know for such a personal song. “The fact that we know each other, it makes it a lot easier. We’re friends and that is exactly what it is,” he said. “In all matter of dating, it feels like 700 years ago. From the age of 19 [Sykes’ age when the couple started dating] to the age of 22, you grow up so much as a person.”

Nathan Syke and Ariana Grande-zoom
Sykes performs with Grande on ‘Live with Kelly and Michael’ in 2013

“We’re both really happy not dating … that’s definitely going to get misinterpreted, I’m sure,” laughed Sykes. “The reason why we both wanted to do this collaboration is because what is the most important thing is the music … that’s the reason why we’ve done it.” This song is the second single from his debut solo album, due out this year.

This is not the first time Sykes has worked with the pop singer. They collaborated on 2013’s “Almost Is Never Enough,” from Grande’s debut album, Yours Truly. The couple called it quits the same year.

Related: Ooh La La! Ariana Grande Shares Romantic First Date With Ex Nathan Sykes

The boy-bander credits one person who keeps him sane: his mother. The English songwriter explained how his mom, who he still lives with, keeps a close eye on him. “She said, ‘If ever I saw you get a bit cocky or carried away … Literally I’ll tell you straight,’” Sykes recalled. “That’s just how we work. No one in this planet is more important than anyone else.”

“In terms of musicians, we just have the privilege of getting to do what we love every day. Just because a lot of people like your music doesn’t make you a better person,” the “Kiss Me Quick” singer said. “It just makes you lucky.”

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