Emily Bayardo

Staff Writer

26-year-old Pittsburgh rapper, Mac Miller, was found dead on September 17th, 2018. Miller was found in his home in San Fernando Valley. USA Today revealed that after a long, drawn-out battle with drug addiction, Miller’s inner demons had bested him. Miller had previously addressed his battle with drug addiction within his music, coming forward with the fuel behind his addiction. The news of his unexpected passing quickly circulated around social media, rapidly gaining awareness from both artists and fans alike.
Miller’s passing created a wave of shock within the music community and amongst his fans. Many were devastated to hear the news, even coming forth and saying that he was such a lively positive individual.
“It was so out of the blue, I didn’t think it would be him. If anything, I thought it was fake news.” said junior Alex Anderson.
In addition to Anderson, junior Mia Contreras was also in shock.
“I thought it was fake news. I couldn’t believe it,” Contreras said.
Miller radiated light and positivity which was infectious towards others and listeners.
“He really helped me through a lot of dark times. His music was raw and made me feel like I would be okay.” Anderson said. “His music inspired me to be a happier person overall,” Contreras said. “There was something about him that always made me feel happy and positive”
Due to circumstances of his death and struggle with addiction, social media was flooded with tweets manipulating the subject into a drug lecture and pointing blame.
“I believe it was more of a cry for help,” Anderson said. “Normally people have addictions because they feel like they have nobody to turn to.”
Contreras shared people need to be more careful and understand how serious addiction can be.
Recently, blame has been placed on Miller’s ex-girlfriend, Arianna Grande. Comments had mentioned that she was at fault for causing Miller to overdose.
“She’s not obligated to stay in a toxic relationship,” Anderson said. “She shouldn’t be to blame when it’s not her fault. His own demons had caused him to use drugs.” Contreras said that “People can’t go blaming someone else. It’s really stupid she didn’t do anything wrong and actually tried to help him.”
Miller was a significantly influential figure and now with his absence, there seems to be a void within the music community.
“His lyrics were very real and raw he actually rapped about real issues going on in the world,”  Anderson said. “He took time and put thought into his music. I feel like that’s why he was so influential.”
Miller has left a long-lasting legacy on both the music industry and listeners. His constant positivity and light will always be remembered in people’s hearts.