In the years since his 2012 Grammy-winning album The Heist, Macklemore has been back in the studio recording a new album and welcoming his first child with fiancée Tricia Davis. In between changing diapers, the Seattle rapper debuts a new song dedicated to his two-month-old daughter, Sloane Ava Simone Haggerty, who was born on May 29.
On the tender tribute, produced by Ryan Lewis, Macklemore is overcome with emotion as he reflects on fatherhood and shares advice for his baby girl as she grows up. Ed Sheeran adds his soulful touch to the stripped-down jam.
“There is nothing like the joy and happiness that comes from bringing a baby into this universe,” said the new dad. “She has filled my heart in ways that I never knew were possible. She is the love of my life. This song is for her.”
In an open letter, Macklemore also spoke at length about fatherhood and why he chose to return with this song. “It’s where I’ve been the last year, through all the ups and downs,” he wrote. “We didn’t want to do a big campaign or anything over the top with this. We just wanted to put out good music, directly to the people that have been here since the beginning.”
Stream “Growing Up” below and download the song for free here.