Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

Born on June 19, 1983, in Seattle, Washington, as Benjamin Hammond Haggerty, Macklemore emerged as a dynamic force in the music industry, seamlessly blending the worlds of hip-hop and pop with his distinctive style and socially conscious lyrics.

Raised in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle, Macklemore's early exposure to the city's diverse culture and music scene laid the foundation for his eclectic sound. His journey into the music world began in the mid-2000s, with the release of mixtapes that showcased his raw talent and unique perspective.

Macklemore's breakthrough came with his collaboration with producer Ryan Lewis, a partnership that would shape the trajectory of his career. Their debut studio album, "The Heist" (2012), catapulted them to international fame. The chart-topping single "Thrift Shop" not only showcased Macklemore's clever wordplay but also highlighted his ability to tackle serious issues with a lighthearted touch.

What sets Macklemore apart is not only his catchy beats and infectious hooks but also his commitment to addressing social issues through his music. Tracks like "Same Love" confront LGBTQ+ rights, earning him accolades for his advocacy and a Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 2014.

The rapper's willingness to use his platform for positive change extends beyond the recording studio. Macklemore is known for his philanthropic efforts, supporting various charities and causes. His authenticity and commitment to social justice have resonated with fans around the globe, establishing him as more than just a musical artist but a cultural influencer.

Macklemore's subsequent releases, including "This Unruly Mess I've Made" (2016) and "Gemini" (2017), continued to showcase his evolution as an artist. Each album serves as a chapter in his musical journey, exploring different sounds while staying true to his commitment to authenticity and self-expression.

Beyond the glitz of the music industry, Macklemore remains grounded, continually pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. His impact reaches far beyond the confines of the stage, solidifying his place as a multifaceted artist, advocate, and storyteller in the ever-evolving tapestry of modern music.

He began independently releasing music in 2000 and now collaborates with producer Ryan Lewis, violinist Andrew Joslyn, and trumpeter Owuor Arunga. He has gained a significant online fanbase. He has released one mixtape, three EPs and two albums, although none on a major record label. 

His single “Thrift Shop” has been viewed on YouTube over 350 million times, and reached number 1 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in 2013, selling more than 2.2 million copies. It was the first time since 1994 that a song reached number 1 on the Hot 100 chart without the support of a major record label. His second single, “Can’t Hold Us” also peaked at #1 of the Hot 100 Chart, making Macklemore & Ryan Lewis the first duo in the chart’s history to have their first two singles both become a #1 single. 

Macklemore released his debut studio album The Heist on October 9, 2012, which charted at number 2 on the US Billboard 200 chart.