Macklemore: Why He Never Signed to a Label, His Struggle with Addiction, and Making Art that Means Something (2023)
Aug 29, 2023
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Macklemore, the rapper who stayed independent, battled addiction, and made music that means something. They discuss his rise to fame without a label, commitment to sobriety, process of idea generation, navigating the challenges of the online music environment, and embracing imperfection in art.
Macklemore emphasizes the importance of addressing social issues in his music and staying true to his values as a white artist in a predominantly black art form.
Despite the changing landscape of the music industry, Macklemore remains focused on creating music that makes people feel good and connects with them on a deeper level rather than chasing viral hits and TikTok trends.
Deep dives
Macklemore's Music and Message
Macklemore, the popular rapper, discusses his journey in the music industry and the challenges he faces as a white artist in a predominantly black art form. He reflects on the concept of appropriation and the importance of addressing social issues in his music. Despite the changing landscape of the music industry, Macklemore remains focused on creating music that makes people feel good and connects with them on a deeper level.
The Power of Independent Success
Macklemore shares his experience of achieving success as an independent artist with hits like 'Thrift Shop' and 'Can't Hold Us.' He emphasizes the importance of ownership and staying true to his values instead of signing with a major label. Despite the challenges of standing out in a saturated market, Macklemore believes in the power of connecting with his audience and making music that resonates with them.
Navigating the Changing Music Industry
Macklemore acknowledges the evolving nature of the music industry and the challenges of breaking through in the era of TikTok and viral hits. He recognizes the unpredictability of what becomes a hit and emphasizes the importance of creating music that makes people feel good. He remains optimistic, focusing on the joy of the creative process and the connection he aims to achieve with his audience.
Reflecting on Creativity and Childhood
Macklemore looks back on his childhood and how his mother's encouragement of his creativity shaped his artistic journey. He discusses the importance of embracing imperfections and expressing oneself authentically, even in the face of criticism. Macklemore encourages artists to tap into their childlike creativity and let go of expectations to create truly meaningful art.
The rapper Macklemore and his collaborator Ryan Lewis had their first two singles go straight to number one (Thrift Shop and Can't Hold Us). Even more amazing, they did it without being signed to a major label. Macklemore joined Guy in 2023 to discuss why they stayed independent, his battle with addiction, why he feels indebted to the originators of hip-hop, and how to make music that means something.
Macklemore's new album BEN came out March 3rd and can be ordered here.