Macklemore surprised the music world by independently selling 78,000 units of the rapper’s sophomore album, The Heist, in its first week and hitting #2 on the Billboard charts. The Seattle-bred artist’s honesty and character are something the hip-hop world has been lacking. The Heist defines itself by talking about Macklemore’s struggles and values… there are no diamonds and no Lamborghinis – a revolutionary concept. Ryan Lewis is the producer extraordinaire behind the beats, who deserves every bit of the album’s co-billing. And the duo doesn’t take themselves too seriously – check out the video for ‘Thrift Shop’… who doesn’t love a good deal?

It’s so refreshing to hear Macklemore and Ryan Lewis use their talent to be constructive. One of the best tracks on the album, even though all of them are incredible, is ‘Same Love,’ which is not just about gay rights, but about human rights. The production is flawless in every detail from the piano to the horns and Mary Lambert is featured singing a beautiful chorus of “I can’t change, even if I tried, even if I wanted to, my love, my love, she keeps me warm.” I’m in awe of Macklemore for his lyrics and whole team behind ‘Same Love’ for making such a valuable and heartfelt video.

“I might not be the same, but that’s not important, no freedom till we’re equal, damn right I support it”

Other notable tracks on The Heist are ‘A Wake,’ ‘Wings,’ ‘Can’t Hold Us’ and of course ‘Jimmy lovine’ a tribute to record label politics. Macklemore and Ryan Lewis made an album that’s unique, fresh, genuine and just really great, from start to finish. I think we’re all ready to embrace a little more truth in our music.

Image via Macklemore