“Thrift Shop” is a song by American hip hop duo Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, featuring vocals from American singer Wanz. It was released on August 27, 2012, as the fourth single from their debut studio album, The Heist (2012). The song was met with universal acclaim, with various music reviewers praising its humorous lyrics and social critique.
The song’s lyrics are about Macklemore’s love of thrift shops and saving money, rather than flaunting expensive items like many rappers. He claims to enjoy donning “your granddad’s clothes” and impulsively buying a sharp-looking but dubious-smelling fur stole just because “it was 99 cents”. Macklemore spoke to MTV News about the meaning of the song. “Rappers talk about, oh I buy this and I buy that, and I spend this much money and I make it rain, and this type of champagne and painting the club, and this is the kind of record that’s the exact opposite of it,” he explained. “It’s the polar opposite of it.”
“Thrift Shop” was a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It was also nominated for two Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Best Rap Song.
The song has been credited with helping to revive the thrift store industry and with encouraging people to be more mindful of their spending habits. It has also been praised for its positive message and for its humor. “Thrift Shop” is a catchy and fun song with a positive message. It is a reminder that you don’t need to spend a lot of money to look good or to have fun.
Fun Fact
The song’s music video was directed by Ryan Lewis and features Macklemore and Wanz shopping at a thrift store. The video was shot in just one day and cost a total of $1,500.
About the Artist
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis is an American hip-hop duo consisting of rapper Macklemore and producer Ryan Lewis. The two met in 2006 and began collaborating in 2008, eventually releasing their debut album “The Heist” in 2012, which included the hit singles “Thrift Shop,” “Can’t Hold Us,” and “Same Love.” Their music often tackles social issues such as consumerism, gay rights, and drug addiction, and they are known for their independent approach to the music industry, having self-released much of their early work before eventually signing with a major label.
