The Lasting Impact of Mac Miller's Death on My Life

When I saw the news about Mac Miller’s death, I was shocked. I didn’t know he was battling substances, and I thought about Ariana Grande when he died, as they were childhood friends. I felt sorry for her and imagined how she would react. I know precisely how she felt, having lost four family members during my childhood and understanding the pain of such a loss.

Mac Miller: My Idol

Mac Miller was my idol. I first heard his music around 2011/2012, and the song that captivated me was ‘All Around the World’ from his mixtape Best Day Ever. Within a few months, his sound had evolved, and he had become my favorite musician.

As I watched his career grow, from the frat party track ‘I Don’t Like It’ (I.K.I.D.) to the more introspective and mature album Swimming, I felt as though I was witnessing his journey in real time.

During my early teenage years, when I was experimenting with drugs, I never ended a session without playing his tracks from his mixtape Faces, which heavily referenced substances, or his nostalgic album Watching Movies with the Sound Off. My association of his music with drug moments continued until his untimely death.

Music as a Comfort

Music played a significant role in my life, particularly during times of mental turmoil. Since 2016, I have been severely depressed, and Mac Miller’s songs became a source of comfort. He discussed his struggles with depression in many of his works, and his music always reminded me that I was not alone.

Losing my biggest idol was extremely emotional. For weeks afterward, I couldn’t listen to anything but his masterpieces, from “The High Life” to “GO:OD A.M.”, and his upcoming album “Swimming.”

Mac Miller’s drug overdose experience also served as a wake-up call. At that point, I was deeply entrenched in prescription medication. If it hadn’t been for his death, I’m not sure I would have sought help. His passing was a pivotal factor in my decision to be sober and enter rehabilitation.

A Lasting Tribute

Mac Miller was the best friend that I never met. I loved him during his life and will continue to love him in his absence. He was an amazing human being who was taken from us too soon, like so many artists marked by similarly devastating attributes.

To commemorate his impact on my life, I even got the album art of his album “GO:OD A.M.”, where he addresses the world from a place of resilience despite facing adversities, tattooed on my forearm in January. Here it is:

Image: GO:OD A.M. album cover tattoo

The Lasting Legacy of Mac Miller's Life and Work

Mac Miller's death has left a profound impact on the lives of many, myself included. His legacy as a music producer, rapper, and mental health advocate is undeniable. His ability to touch the lives of so many during his journey and to continue to do so posthumously speaks to the power of his art and his spirit.

Rest, Malcolm.