Macklemore has made a highly anticipated return to the music scene after a six-year hiatus with his new self-titled album, BEN. This comeback not only marks a significant shift in his career but also highlights a period of personal transformation and artistic reinvention.
As Macklemore reconnects with fans and critics, it’s clear that his journey from his last album, Gemini, to this new chapter has been marked by profound changes in both his personal life and professional endeavors.
The Hiatus and the Rebirth
Macklemore’s previous album, Gemini, was released in 2017. At that time, the music industry was buzzing with live performances, tours, and the excitement of new releases. However, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 drastically altered the landscape, impacting how artists engaged with their craft and their audiences. For Macklemore, this period of isolation and uncertainty provided an opportunity for introspection and growth.
The pandemic era, with its enforced pause on touring and live performances, allowed Macklemore to step back from the whirlwind of the music industry and focus on his personal and creative life. During this time, he reflected on his career, reevaluated his artistic goals, and embraced new challenges. This period of reflection and reinvention is a central theme in BEN, the album he crafted during this hiatus.
Macklemore sheds light on why this break was essential for his creative process. “I think the hope with any album is to bring people closer to who you are,” he explains. “There’s a universal desire to feel understood, and this album is my way of sharing more of myself.” This statement underscores a broader trend among artists who use downtime to reconnect with their core selves and their audience, often resulting in more personal and introspective work.
BEN: A Personal and Artistic Evolution
Released on March 3, 2023, BEN is not just a return to music for Macklemore; it’s a significant evolution in his artistic journey. The album offers an intimate look into Macklemore’s life, marked by both vulnerability and resilience. It serves as a reflection of his personal struggles, growth, and the lessons learned during his time away from the music scene.
One of the standout tracks on BEN is “HEROES [feat. DJ Premier],” which draws inspiration from Macklemore’s teenage years. This track pays homage to the skateboarding and hip-hop culture that influenced him growing up. The collaboration with DJ Premier, a legendary figure in hip-hop, adds depth and authenticity to the song, bridging the gap between Macklemore’s past influences and his current artistic vision.
Another notable track, “TAIL LIGHTS,” delves into Macklemore’s journey through recovery and self-discovery. This introspective song reflects his experiences during a time of personal struggle and growth. Through BEN, Macklemore traces pivotal moments in his life, using his music as a medium to explore and share these experiences with his audience.
The decision to title the album BEN is a reflection of Macklemore’s return to his roots and a new phase in his career. “I won’t name an album until the very end,” he says. “It’s like having a kid. You might think you love the name George, but then George pops out and you’re like, ‘Yo, this is definitely a Herbert.’” This analogy highlights the organic nature of Macklemore’s creative process, where the final title emerges naturally from the work itself.
Rediscovering Passions: Golf and Creativity
During his hiatus, Macklemore discovered a new passion for golf. Despite his humorous self-assessment of his skills—“I hit maybe five people, but I didn’t kill anyone, so that’s a win”—he has embraced the sport with enthusiasm. Golf has become more than just a pastime for Macklemore; it represents a new avenue for self-expression and creativity.
In addition to his personal interest in golf, Macklemore has launched a golfing clothing brand, Bogey Boys. This venture allows him to merge his love for the sport with his entrepreneurial spirit. The brand reflects his unique approach to fashion and his desire to create something that resonates with his personal experiences and passions.
Macklemore’s engagement with golf also highlights a broader trend among artists who explore new interests and opportunities during periods of downtime. By embracing golf and launching Bogey Boys, Macklemore has expanded his creative repertoire and found new ways to connect with his audience.
A Decade of Achievements and Humility
Over the past decade, Macklemore’s career has been marked by significant achievements and milestones. From winning Grammy Awards to collaborating with high-profile artists and engaging in important social issues, Macklemore has navigated both the highs and lows of the music industry. He has also had the opportunity to engage with influential figures, such as former President Barack Obama, to discuss critical issues like America’s opioid epidemic.
Despite these accomplishments, Macklemore remains grounded and focused on the impact of his music. He emphasizes that the most important aspect of his career is creating music that resonates with people and makes a difference in their lives. “Being able to make music that has had an impact on people’s lives will always be paramount in terms of my career achievements,” he says.
This humility and focus on meaningful expression reflect Macklemore’s dedication to his craft and his desire to make a positive impact through his music. He continues to prioritize authenticity and artistic integrity, even as the music industry evolves and presents new challenges.
Navigating the New Music Landscape
The music industry has undergone significant changes over the past decade, particularly with the rise of social media and digital platforms. For artists like Macklemore, this new landscape presents both opportunities and challenges. Social media has transformed how music is promoted and consumed, creating new pressures and expectations for artists.
Macklemore reflects on the impact of social media and its role in shaping the music industry. “The algorithm is not art and it never will be,” he asserts. “The centerpiece should be the art itself, not the metrics.” This perspective highlights Macklemore’s commitment to prioritizing artistic integrity over commercial pressures. He acknowledges the challenges posed by social media but remains focused on creating music that is true to his vision and values.
The rise of social media has also influenced Macklemore’s approach to his role as a father. He is mindful of how these platforms can impact his children and is committed to having open conversations about external validation and comparison. “Comparison is the thief of joy,” he says, reflecting on the lessons he wants to impart to his kids. His approach to parenting underscores his broader commitment to authenticity and personal growth.
Collaborations and Creative Partnerships
BEN features collaborations with notable artists such as NLE Choppa and DJ Premier, each bringing a unique perspective to the album. Macklemore praises Choppa for his inspiring approach to life and music, noting the refreshing energy he brings to the project. “Choppa is such an inspiring young person,” Macklemore says. “He’s on his own journey of meditation, healthy living, and semen retention.” This collaboration highlights Macklemore’s appreciation for diverse influences and his willingness to learn from other artists.
In contrast, DJ Premier represents a different end of the spectrum, bringing his legendary status and experience to the album. Macklemore values the opportunity to work with such an influential figure, recognizing the impact of their creative partnership. “I learned from both of those guys and had really great conversations in the creation process,” he notes.
Looking ahead, Macklemore expresses interest in collaborating with Celine Dion. He envisions a powerful ballad that could become a timeless hit, illustrating his ongoing drive to push creative boundaries and explore new artistic avenues. This aspiration reflects Macklemore’s desire to continue evolving as an artist and expanding his creative horizons.
Reflections on a Career and Future Aspirations
Macklemore’s career has been filled with memorable moments and significant achievements. From winning a Grammy to engaging with influential figures, his journey has been marked by both personal and professional milestones. He reflects on these experiences with a sense of awe and gratitude, highlighting moments like meeting Jay-Z, conversing with Barack Obama, and watching a basketball game with Michael Jordan.
These surreal experiences have shaped Macklemore’s perspective on his career and his impact on the music industry. He emphasizes that making music that has a lasting impact on people’s lives is what matters most to him. “Being able to make music that has had an impact on people’s lives will always be paramount in terms of my career achievements,” he reiterates.
For emerging artists, Macklemore offers straightforward advice: “Don’t let the algorithm dictate your art. Focus on creating something that truly speaks to people, regardless of trends or metrics.” This guidance reflects his belief in the importance of authenticity and creative expression. He encourages young artists to remain true to their vision and to prioritize the quality of their work over commercial pressures.
The Secret to Longevity in Music
As Macklemore continues to shape his legacy, he attributes his longevity in the music industry to vulnerability and introspection. “The secret behind my longevity is vulnerability,” he says. “In order to get vulnerable, you have to know yourself, which requires introspection.” This approach allows him to connect with listeners on a deeper level and create music that resonates with their experiences.
Macklemore’s commitment to vulnerability and self-discovery is evident in his music and his approach to his career. He believes that by continuing to push himself out of his comfort zone and embrace new challenges, he will create art that is worth talking about long after he is gone. His focus on introspection and authenticity is a key factor in his ability to remain relevant and impactful in the ever-changing music landscape.
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The Legacy of Macklemore
Looking to the future, Macklemore is focused on continuing to make meaningful music and leaving a lasting impact on his audience. He envisions his legacy as one of authenticity and artistic expression, shaped by his willingness to confront personal challenges and share his experiences through his music.
“I think if I continue to show up, strip away layers, and push myself out of my comfort zone, then I will make art that is worth talking about long after my days here in the physical space,” he says. This perspective reflects his commitment to creating music that is both personal and impactful, ensuring that his legacy will endure.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Macklemore’s return with BEN represents a significant moment in his career, reflecting his growth as an artist and individual. The album offers a deep dive into his personal journey, exploring themes of vulnerability, recovery, and self-discovery. As he continues to navigate the evolving music landscape and balance his diverse interests, Macklemore remains dedicated to making art that resonates with his audience and stands the test of time.
