Released: 2017 • Features: Skylar Grey
“Glorious” by Macklemore, featuring Skylar Grey, is a triumphant anthem of resilience and rejuvenation. It follows Macklemore’s journey of personal transformation, where he reclaims his life and refocuses on his aspirations, paying homage to his roots, acknowledging his past and looking towards a bright future.
Let’s start with the opening line: “You know I’m back like I never left.” Macklemore is making a bold declaration of his return. Whether he refers to his return to music or life in general after a period of struggle isn’t explicitly stated, but it’s a powerful flex either way. He speaks of “chasing dreams”, “another sprint, another step” — a metaphor for progress, for daily grind towards the bigger goal. When he says “I heard you die twice, once when they bury you in the grave and the second time is the last time that somebody mentions your name”, he touches on legacy and how one’s impact extends beyond their earthly existence.
“Legend it’s exodus searching for euphoria” has strong biblical references. Exodus denotes a mass departure of people, in this context it could allude to Macklemore freeing himself from previous trials and mindsets, moving towards euphoria. “20,000 deep off in the street like we some warriors”, seems to be a hat tip to his loyal fanbase—and to the communal spirit often found in hip-hop.
Now the chorus: “I feel glorious, glorious. Got a chance to start again…” The repetition of “glorious” emphasizes his renewed sense of self and vitality. The phrase “chance to start again” refers to redemption and new beginnings, a cornerstone in the narrative of the comeback. Skylar Grey’s angelic vocals lay an optimistic layer over the recovery narrative.
Moving into the second verse, Macklemore draws a beautiful picture of familial love and appreciation of the simpler, yet richer aspects of life. The line “We posted on the porch, my family’s glasses to the stars” speaks to the intimate and cherished moments with loved ones. He also references a “Delorean”, the iconic car from the “Back to the Future” series, possibly indicating his life has shifted gears, his world changing much like the movie’s storyline.
The phrase “We gon’ be alright, put that on my life” blazes with resilience and optimism. The line “We’re planting a flag they don’t understand, The world is up for grabs” is a defiant claim to carve his own unique space in the world, a world that’s full of opportunity.
The ultimate message of Macklemore’s “Glorious” is one of resilience, personal reckoning, and redemption. It intertwines his struggle and recovery with bold assertions of his place in the world, a reminder to recognize and remain true to one’s roots even amidst change.
