Macklemore - 10 things to know with detail
- 1. Birth Name: Macklemore was born as Benjamin Hammond Haggerty on June 19, 1983 in Seattle, Washington.
- 2. Musical Beginnings: Macklemore started rapping at a young age and released his first mixtape, "Open Your Eyes," in 2000. He later formed a duo with producer Ryan Lewis in 2008.
- 3. Breakthrough Album: Macklemore and Ryan Lewis gained mainstream success with their debut studio album, "The Heist," in 2012. The album spawned hit singles like "Thrift Shop" and "Can't Hold Us."
- 4. Grammy Wins: In 2014, Macklemore and Ryan Lewis won four Grammy Awards, including Best New Artist and Best Rap Album for "The Heist."
- 5. Personal Struggles: Macklemore has been open about his struggles with addiction and relapse. He has been sober since 2008 and often addresses these themes in his music.
- 6. Activism: Macklemore is known for addressing social issues in his music, including LGBTQ rights, racial inequality, and addiction. He has been a vocal advocate for causes like marriage equality and gun control.
- 7. Collaborations: Macklemore has collaborated with artists like Ed Sheeran, Kesha, and Lil Yachty. He is also known for his work with Ryan Lewis, with whom he has released multiple projects.
- 8. Independent Artist: Macklemore has often chosen to release music independently, outside of major record labels. This has allowed him to have creative control over his music and message.
- 9. Fashion: Macklemore is known for his eclectic sense of style, often mixing high-end designer pieces with thrift store finds. He has also launched his own clothing line, called Bogey Boys.
- 10. Continued Success: Despite taking a hiatus from music in recent years, Macklemore has continued to release new music and collaborate with other artists. He remains a respected figure in the hip-hop community for his unique style and socially conscious lyrics.