Swimming

Mac Miller

2018
Hip-Hop/Rap
13 Tracks
58 minutes, 25 seconds

Warner Bros. Record
Produced by Mac Miller, Jon Brion, and others
2xLP, 180g

About the artist

Mac Miller, born Malcolm James McCormick, was a Pittsburgh-born artist whose music journey was marked by constant reinvention and an unflinching honesty. Starting as a teenager with an infectious energy and youthful charm, Mac quickly grew into an artist who was unafraid to explore the darker corners of life.

His ability to blend hip-hop with elements of jazz, soul, and electronic music made him a unique voice in the industry. Swimming is one of his most introspective projects, reflecting his struggles and growth in a way that feels deeply personal and universally relatable.

On the turntable

Swimming is not just an album—it’s a statement of resilience and self-awareness. Released in 2018, this project finds Mac Miller navigating the complexities of his inner world, turning his struggles into art. What makes Swimming stand out is its seamless blend of genres. The lush production, guided by Mac and visionary producer Jon Brion, mixes elements of hip-hop, neo-soul, and jazz, creating a sound that is both expansive and intimate.

Each track on Swimming serves as a chapter in Mac’s exploration of his mental and emotional landscape. The lead single, "Self Care," delves into themes of self-preservation and recovery, balancing melancholy with hope. In "2009," Mac reflects on his journey with a sense of bittersweet nostalgia, backed by a beautiful orchestral arrangement that underscores the weight of his words.

What makes Swimming particularly compelling is the way it captures Mac’s state of mind during a tumultuous period in his life. It’s an album that doesn’t shy away from vulnerability, yet it’s also filled with moments of quiet strength and resilience. The smooth grooves of "What's the Use?" offer a contrast to the introspective lyrics, demonstrating Mac’s ability to find light even in his darkest moments.

Critically acclaimed for its depth and cohesion, Swimming reached #3 on the Billboard 200, but its impact goes beyond the charts. This album is a testament to Mac Miller's growth as an artist and a human being. It invites listeners to swim through the complexities of life with him, embracing both the highs and the lows with grace and authenticity.