Top 3 hip-hop Tiny Desk Concerts to me. I don't listen to it very often, because it makes me too sad. His performance of 2009 absolutely kills me, knowing he passed just a few months later.
I honestly didn't really follow him until after he passed. His early frat-rap stuff that got got him attention initially wasn't really to my taste and I never came back to him until Circles came out, a couple years after his death.
In the first verse, Mac confesses that he may think he knows it all, but in reality, he is still learning and growing. He reflects on his own shortcomings and acknowledges that he needs to do better. The lyrics also highlight the loneliness that can come with fame and success, as Mac laments that nobody truly knows him.
“Small Worlds” was released on May 30th, 2018 along with “Buttons” and “Programs,” breaking his silence in the wake of his very public rupture with Ariana Grande and subsequently DUI crash and marking his first releases since his 2016 album The Divine Feminine.
The song features a slow tempo and somber mood as Mac discusses his flaws, showing the listener he’s aware of the issues he’s caused following a highly problematic month.
As a music enthusiast, I always find myself diving deep into the lyrics and melodies of songs, searching for meaning and connection. One song that has truly captivated me is “What’s the Use?” by Mac Miller. I first heard this song on his album “Swimming” and I remember being completely blown away by its unique sound and introspective lyrics. It quickly became one of my favorites, and I want to share the meaning behind this song and why it resonates with me.
“What’s the Use?” was teased as the follow up to the album’s first single “Self Care” with guest appearances by Thundercat, Snoop Dogg, and Syd. It premiered a week later via Apple Music on Zane Lowe’s World Record Beats 1 radio show on July 24, 2018.
As a devoted Mac Miller fan, I can’t help but feel a profound connection to his music. His songs have always been there for me during both the good and bad times, resonating with me in a way that few artists can. One song in particular that holds a special place in my heart is “2009” from his album Swimming.
“2009” is a reflective journey from the year before Mac’s breakout mixtape, K.I.D.S, was released to the present day. He speaks to the listener about the lessons he’s learned and the wisdom he’s gained throughout the track.