The talented, young artist who gave us The Divine Female, Swimming and many other popular albums has been announced dead from a drug overdose in his apartment in Studio City, California. Mac Miller had been struggling with a substance abuse problem for years. He was previously in a long-term relationship with famous singer and actress, Ariana Grande. The couple was very loved by fans and made their relationship very public. Ariana left Mac in May of this year. She said that his addictions were getting out of control and that it wasn’t her place to save him. Grande wrote, “This is one of my best friends in the whole world and favorite people on the planet.” Even so, fans blamed her for Mac’s DUI in May, and his continuing drinking and drug problem. Grande defended herself and explained that she should not be shamed for leaving the toxic relationship. Mac took her side and did not put any blame on Ariana.

Mac did not keep his problem a secret. He had spoken out multiple times, either in songs or interviews, about his addiction and history of overdosing. Of course, no one really saw this coming. Mac was a very loved artist. He was friends with many famous rappers and producers and had a very loving fan base, but everyone knew that he had a substance abuse issue.

After his death was confirmed, the social media world was devastated. Rappers like Ugly God and Schoolboy Q have written a post about Mac, as well as Ariana Grande. On September 8th, Grande posted a black and white photo of Mac sitting at her feet (see featured image) with no caption. On September 14th, Ariana posted a video of Mac laughing and referring to her as “Baby” and she wrote – “I adored you from the day I met you when I was nineteen and I always will. I can’t believe you aren’t here anymore. I really can’t wrap my head around it. We talked about this. So many times. I’m so mad, I’m so sad I don’t know what to do. You were my dearest friend for so long. Above anything else. I’m so sorry I couldn’t fix or take your pain away. I really wanted to. The kindest, sweetest soul with demons he never deserved.”The kindest, sweetest soul with demons he never deserved.”[/pullquote] I hope you’re okay now. Rest.” This post was very controversial and saddening to the world of social media. Other tributes to Mac include Post Malone’s custom-made shirt with Mac’s name on it, a moment of silence before a Pittsburgh Pirates game, and many other special things.

Mac will be so missed, and forever known as a beautiful human being. His music will live on and so will his name. Generations after ours, I still believe Mac will be played all of the time.

Rest in peace.