When many people think of rap music they usually think of singers like Lil’ Wayne and Eminem, others however, think of provocative lyrics along with drug and alcohol abuse.

Rap artists have been creating an infamous name for themselves which can be both good and bad.  When songs are often about sex, drugs, and alcohol, parents typically do not appreciate the potentially influential music their kids listen to.

One rapper in particular however, has taken the opposite approach when it comes to the rap music industry.

Macklemore and Ryan Lewis have recently taken radio stations by storm with their hit single Thrift Shop. Even though this song is fun and seems like any other rap, it is much more.

Ben Haggerty, or Macklemore, has made a voice for himself through his music and defies the stereotype other artists have created.

While most rappers sing about partying and ‘having fun,’ Macklemore truly hits the issues of today through his lyrics. In Thrift Shop he highlights the way many people in society are over-materialistic and the crazy willingness to spend 50 dollars or more on simple T-shirts just because they have specific brands. When instead you could go to cheaper stores and purchase clothes of equal quality.

He and Ryan Lewis help open our eyes through music. Same Love ft. Mary Lambert is a song promoting gay rights. They talk about how other rappers say gay and other derogatory words in almost every song they release. This shows the hatred that is spread through what we call music today and how we need acceptance for all people. Though some people may disagree with his antics, many find it inspiring and insightful.

Otherside is another powerful hard-hitting song that could open just about anyone’s eyes. Macklemore starts out this rap as if he were talking to Lil’ Wayne about doing a variety of different drugs while in the background Ryan Lewis has a darker harmony behind it. Though his song is not about doing these harmful things, rather it’s about the dangers and consequences of such actions.

Macklemore calls out other artists, accusing them of being responsible for the drug abuse amongst kids today. He tells them how kids aspire to be just like their favorite rappers and unknowingly go down the wrong path.

Macklemore is an original artist with his life in his sights. Even though the stereotype is against him, he finds a way to overcome them.