Stepping into the Ryman Auditorium to see Macklemore, I wasn’t your typical die-hard fan. My memories of Macklemore Songs were vivid snapshots from a decade past: the infectious beat of “Thrift Shop” blasting from the radio during car rides with my dad in 2012, the ubiquitous anthem “Can’t Hold Us” soundtracking high school prom. Beyond those hits and “Downtown,” my Macklemore knowledge was admittedly limited, sparked recently by viral TikToks showcasing the electrifying atmosphere of his summer concerts. While my usual playlists lean towards the introspective sounds of Noah Kahan, Taylor Swift, and Hozier, the energy radiating from those online clips was undeniable. Macklemore’s Nashville concert on September 17th wasn’t just a show; it was an immersion into the world of Macklemore songs, earning him a solid spot in my regular music rotation.
The concert exploded into life with “CHANT,” the opening track from his latest album “BEN.” From the first beat, the Ryman transformed into a high-octane arena. The song’s build-up was palpable, like the slow ascent of a rollercoaster before the exhilarating plunge. While the backing music offered a smooth, almost deceptive calm, Macklemore’s rapid-fire rap and the insistent clapping rhythm were instantly contagious. You couldn’t help but stomp your feet and clap along, caught in the wave of sound.
Macklemore performing CHANT at Ryman Auditorium, Nashville
After the initial rush of “CHANT,” Macklemore paused to connect with the Nashville crowd. He acknowledged the unique significance of launching his North American tour in a venue as iconic as the Ryman. “There is a lot of history in this building,” he admitted, “I don’t really know much more, but I know it is historic. Nashville is a music city and I am happy to be a part of it.” This humble acknowledgment of the venue’s legacy resonated with the audience, setting the stage for a night that bridged the past and present of Macklemore’s music.
Then came the moment many, including myself, had been waiting for. Macklemore spoke of embracing the present by revisiting the past, a clear lead-in to the song that catapulted him into mainstream consciousness: “Thrift Shop.” The Ryman erupted. Suddenly, we were transported back to 2012, to thrift store adventures and the dawn of Macklemania. Despite being in a former church on a Sunday evening, the atmosphere instantly shifted into a full-blown party. Macklemore navigated every verse with effortless skill, while his DJ and band, amplified by the enthusiastic audience, took over the chorus, creating a powerful collective singalong.
Adding to the nostalgic vibe, Macklemore’s attire for the opening songs was a denim vest adorned with vintage patches, a find from his Nashville thrifting trip the day before. He shared his amusing discomfort in modern thrift stores, a far cry from his early days when thrift shops were a comfortable and integral part of his persona and music. “There’s not many environments I feel uncomfortable in,” Macklemore confessed, “But being in a thrift shop is just weird now.” This relatable anecdote further endeared him to the crowd, highlighting the journey both he and his audience had taken since the “Thrift Shop” era.
The party momentum surged forward with “NO BAD DAYS,” an undeniably upbeat track that amplified the room’s already high energy. Macklemore, armed with a water gun, playfully sprayed the audience, injecting a carefree, spring break spirit into the concert. Beneath the surface of the high-energy performance, however, lay a recurring theme in many Macklemore songs that emerged throughout the night: self-love and resilience. “NO BAD DAYS,” like several other tracks that followed, carried a message of positivity and not letting negativity dim your light.
Macklemore spraying water gun into the crowd at Nashville concert
In a particularly poignant moment, especially resonant given the current political climate and challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community in Tennessee, Macklemore performed “Same Love.” The song resonated deeply, transforming the celebratory atmosphere into one of shared emotion and solidarity. “Same Love” is more than just a song; it’s an anthem of acceptance, challenging prejudice and advocating for the fundamental right to be oneself. The lyrics, particularly “A world so hateful, some would rather die than be who they are / And a certificate on paper isn’t gonna solve it all,” hung heavy in the air, prompting tears and heartfelt singing from the audience. Beyond the powerful message, the song itself is beautifully crafted, with soulful vocals and a backdrop of smooth, jazzy trumpets and drums, making its message even more impactful.
Keeping the energy levels soaring, Macklemore transitioned into “I NEED,” “1984,” and “Otherside.” Even for those unfamiliar with these tracks, the sheer dynamism of Macklemore and the crowd’s infectious enthusiasm made it impossible not to participate. Of the three, “1984” stood out with its infectious beat, evoking memories of carefree days and dance-filled moments reminiscent of “Just Dance” sessions with childhood friends. These songs demonstrated Macklemore’s ability to create an immersive live experience, drawing in even casual listeners with pure energy and engaging stage presence.
The setlist then took a theatrical pause as Macklemore bowed and exited the stage, only to return moments later for the encore, draped in a shimmering blue cape. The opening chords of “And We Danced” filled the Ryman, solidifying the concert’s journey back to the 2010s. Childhood memories flooded back – “Just Dance” routines, music videos, laughter shared with friends. Macklemore, in his flamboyant cape, bounced across the stage, ensuring the audience was having a “really, really, really good time.”
Throughout the night, the question of special guests lingered. Macklemore’s history of collaborations made it a distinct possibility. However, no one could have predicted the surprise that awaited: Kesha appearing on the Ryman stage to perform “Good Old Days.” In a night filled with high-energy performances and elaborate staging, this duet stood out in its simplicity and emotional depth. Just Kesha and Macklemore, their voices blending seamlessly, stripped of extravagant costumes or choreography. A collective shiver ran through the audience as Kesha’s voice filled the venue. “Good Old Days” is a timeless song, tapping into universal feelings of nostalgia and longing for simpler times. The poignant line, “I wish somebody would have told me, babe / Someday, these will be the good old days,” resonated deeply, striking a chord with anyone who has ever felt homesick or yearned for the past. The performance was a powerful reflection, bridging the gap between past and present, and acknowledging the journey from youthful exuberance to present-day appreciation.
The concert reached its undeniable peak with “Can’t Hold Us,” the song everyone was waiting for and a quintessential Macklemore anthem. Before launching into the final track, Macklemore issued a simple but effective command: “It may be a Sunday night, but I’m going to need everyone up and dancing right now.” The Ryman transformed into a seismic zone. The crowd was jumping, stomping, and singing every word with unrestrained passion. From the balcony, the sight of Macklemore crowd-surfing while flawlessly rapping every line was surreal. “Can’t Hold Us” served as the perfect culmination of the night – an explosion of energy and collective euphoria. Had it not been the finale, the crowd was clearly ready for another four songs, fueled by the non-stop good vibes.
Macklemore’s Nashville concert was a masterclass in creating an unforgettable live experience. Seamlessly blending nostalgia with his latest hits from “BEN,” he proved his ability to ignite a party even in a revered venue like the Ryman Auditorium. “The Ben Tour” promises to be a journey of non-stop energy and reminiscent joy, and if Nashville is any indication, each stop will be an unmissable celebration of Macklemore songs and the enduring connection they forge with audiences.
