In a moving moment at the PPG Paints Arena, Tyler, The Creator took a pause from his Chromakopia Tour performance to pay tribute to his late friend, Mac Miller, in Pittsburgh.
The rapper, overwhelmed with emotion, addressed the crowd, expressing his deep connection to the city through his friendship with Mac Miller. He recalled memorable moments with Mac, including a personal tour of Pittsburgh that left a lasting impression.
“What a special place,” Tyler said. “I had a friend that’s from here. His name was Malcolm. Safe travels, rest in peace to him.” Tyler’s words resonated with fans, evoking warm applause and a shared sense of loss.
Tyler’s heartfelt dedication to Mac at the concert was not their first collaboration. The two artists had previously teamed up on 2013’s “O.K.” and shared laughs on Tyler’s former Adult Swim show, Loiter Squad.
Social media lit up with clips of the tribute, capturing Tyler’s genuine affection for Mac. One fan tweeted, “Tyler, The Creator dedicated his Pittsburgh show to Mac Miller 🤍.”
In a previous interview, Tyler contrasted Mac’s genuine love for hip-hop with others who he felt mocked the genre. He remarked on Mac’s authenticity, putting him in the same league as Eminem for their real passion for the music.
Meanwhile, Mac Miller’s legacy continues to thrive. His second posthumous album, Balloonerism, released earlier this year, debuted at number three on the Billboard 200. The album, originally recorded in 2014, showcased Mac’s experimental side and featured a guest spot from SZA.
Although Balloonerism was shelved for years, it eventually surfaced, delighting fans and critics alike. The release highlighted Mac’s creative evolution and the enduring impact of his work, much of which was unfinished before his untimely death.
Tyler, The Creator’s tribute to Mac Miller was a powerful reminder of the bonds formed through music and the lasting impact of genuine artistry. It celebrated a friendship that transcended music, reminding fans of the irreplaceable talent Mac brought to the world.
