by Alicia Ptak
Ben Haggerty, more commonly known as Macklemore, has become a big hit at Hudson High. Releasing music since 2000, Macklemore now collaborates with Ryan Lewis and other artists to create innovative hip hop/rap music. Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Macklemore’s meaningful lyrics have been strongly influenced by his life and beliefs. His songs feature positive messages about same sex marriage and gay rights, his fight for sobriety, and other aspects of Macklemore’s personal life. The personality and originality of his music set him apart from other musicians in his genre.
His most famous song, Thrift Shop, which debuted in October 2012, has consistently held the number one spot across the globe. The song shares Macklemore’s opinions about spending large amounts of money on designer clothes. Instead, Macklemore raps about buying cheap clothes from thrift stores. Macklemore’s message can appeal to more people than other popular rappers’ songs, which often send the message that spending money and flaunting your wealth is essential to having “swag”.
So what does Hudson High have to say about the song?
Junior Thaissa Campelo says Thrift Shop is one of her favorite songs. “The song is so catchy and fun to listen to,” says Campelo. “It puts me in a good mood just to hear it. I’m putting it on, especially if I’m having a bad day.”
Junior Gaby Resende agrees with Campelo’s assessment of the song. “It’s different than the other songs you hear on the 
radio,” she says. “It’s funny if you actually listen to the lyrics. I like that the song has meaning behind it, but also sounds really good too. I love all of Macklemore’s music,” Resende explains. “His music has so much meaning and really shows who he is and what he cares about. I think that’s what all music should be about, showing who the artist really is while sounding amazing too. That’s what makes Macklemore so good.”
