BY TER STAFF

In a whirlwind of energy and artistry, Macklemore took center stage at The Rave’s Eagles Ballroom on Saturday night, marking his triumphant return to the venue after a five-year hiatus. As part of his headlining tour, “The Ben Tour,” which kicked off a couple of weeks ago in Nashville, Macklemore delivered a sold-out performance that will undoubtedly be etched in the memories of his Milwaukee fans for years to come.

Born Ben Haggerty, Macklemore has always been known for his distinct storytelling and unwavering authenticity. This tour, aptly named after his 2023 self-titled album “Ben,” showcased the artist’s deep connection with his own narrative. The evening started with the infectious rhythm of “Chant,” the first single from his latest album, setting the stage for an unforgettable night in Wisconsin.

Immediately Macklemore showed love to the city of Milwaukee. As he took off his sunglasses after the first track, he told the crowd, “It’s hot as hell in here, someone tell me why I decided to wear a leather jacket with extra layers of leather?” Quickly the laughs turned into screams as Macklemore revealed the Milwaukee Brewers jersey he was sporting under his jacket.

The homage to Milwaukee didn’t stop there, as Macklemore also gave a huge shoutout to the venue. “I’m not going to lie to you, Milwaukee, I play a lot of places and have a lot of favorite venues”, Macklemore told the crowd. “But The Rave’s Eagles Ballroom is at the top of the f*cking list”,  Macklemore continued to the sold out crowd’s delight.

The setlist continued to kick off on a high note, with Macklemore revisiting some of his biggest hits early in the set. “Thrift Shop,” “White Walls,” “Same Love,” and “Downtown” brought the crowd to its feet early on Saturday night, singing along to every word. The atmosphere was electric, and Macklemore’s charismatic stage presence only fueled the energy in the packed room.

As the evening progressed, Macklemore seamlessly transitioned into tracks from his new album, ensuring a perfect balance between nostalgia and fresh beats. The full band, complete with every instrument imaginable, elevated the musical experience to new heights. In addition to the orchestra backing things up, the inclusion of dancers and Macklemore’s multiple outfit changes also added an element of theatricality and excitement.

What sets Macklemore apart is not only his lyrical prowess but also his undeniable energy on stage. His genuine joy and connection with the audience are infectious, creating an atmosphere of pure celebration. This was evident throughout the performance, especially during the encore, where he delivered “Good Old Days” and closed the night with the high-energy anthem “Can’t Hold Us.” The entire room was dancing along with their hands in the air, united by the power of music and Macklemore’s magnetic presence.

Macklemore’s “The Ben Tour” is a testament to his evolution as an artist and a celebration of his illustrious career. With a perfect blend of old favorites and standout tracks from his new LP, he proves that he’s here to stay and continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of hip-hop. Milwaukee had the privilege of witnessing this exceptional performance, and for those in attendance, it was an unforgettable night of music, unity, and giving back.

Check out our photos from Macklemore’s Milwaukee performance below.