From Pink’s terrifying acrobatics to a mind-blowing Kendrick Lamar and Imagine Dragons collaboration and a mini Beatles reunion, the 56th annual Grammy Awards was certainly memorable. But Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, who brought home four awards, were the show’s major topics of discussion and sources of controversy.
Macklemore and Lewis’s performance of their song “Same Love,” which featured the live marriages of 33 opposite-sex and same-sex couples, raised criticism from both conservative and liberal viewers. Although criticism from right-wing audiences was expected, disapproval from members and supporters of the LGBTQ community is as ridiculous as it is unexpected.
Although “Same Love” promotes same-sex marriage, critics question Macklemore’s sincerity and accuse him of using his straight privilege to monetize off of the LGBTQ rights movement. Macklemore is a straight white man, a member of the social elite, but “Same Love” is by no means an expression of politically correct straight privilege. Instead, Macklemore used his elevated social stature and popularity to take a stand to support a historically marginalized group and, as mentioned in the song, his uncles. He shared the limelight with 33 same-sex, biracial and heterosexual couples on the biggest music event of the year to publicize the beauty of marriage, regardless of race or sexual orientation.
The couples didn’t get a lot of airtime, but Macklemore has no control over the cameras and scene selection. That was a decision made by the producers, not Macklemore. Besides, Mary Lambert, the singer who collaborated with Macklemore on “Same Love,” is a very dedicated LGBTQ activist and lesbian. She had absolutely no issue collaborating on this song to promote a cause she is incredibly passionate about.
Macklemore’s intentions have been completely misconstrued because of his sexual orientation, race and gender when his only intention is to help the LGBTQ movement in the most dramatic and powerful way possible: live marriages during the Grammy Awards.
It isn’t likely that Macklemore — an independent artist who no one really knew about a year ago — intended to exploit the gay rights movement, but even if his primary motivation behind his “Same Love” performance was to make money, at least he equally promoted tolerance and acceptance. Look at other celebrities: everything they say, do, and create is a way to make money and promote their brand, regardless of genre and medium. Unlike Macklemore, most artists promote the objectification of women, emphasize heterosexuality, celebrate drug abuse and face little criticism for it. If Macklemore really is just motivated by money and popularity, just like other celebrity, at least he is simultaneously promoting a positive movement.
“Same Love” and his performance at the Grammys are great examples of progress in popular culture and Macklemore should be celebrated for creating history.
